CNBC Names XRP the 'Breakout Trade of 2026'

CNBC recently described the XRP token, associated with Ripple, as the "breakout trade" for 2026.

Key Takeaways

CNBC has labeled XRP as the leading trade for 2026, marking its notable rise of over 20% since January.
The token has moved ahead of BNB to secure the third spot in market capitalization.
Factors contributing to XRP's rally include the conclusion of Ripple's legal issues with the SEC, its attractiveness as a less competitive investment, and sustained ETF inflows.

CNBC Names XRP the 'Breakout Trade of 2026'

The Ripple-linked XRP is experiencing significant growth, with a more than 20% increase since the beginning of the year. XRP has also ascended to the third position in market capitalization, overtaking the BNB token. CNBC highlights several factors driving this upward trend, including the resolution of regulatory concerns and an appealing investment opportunity compared to more crowded trades like Bitcoin and Ether.

XRP's Rise in the Market

The network reported that since the start of the year, XRP has surged over 20%. This impressive performance has positioned it at third place by market capitalization, surpassing BNB.

CNBC's MacKenzie Sigalos explained, "XRP is aiming to be the exchange layer that facilitates the movement of money between different currencies."

Three Key Factors Behind the Rally

In its analysis, CNBC identified three primary reasons for XRP's remarkable rally:

Resolution of Regulatory Challenges: With Ripple's legal battles with the SEC coming to a close, there is no longer a regulatory shadow hanging over XRP.
Less Crowded Investment Option: Unlike Bitcoin and Ether, XRP is perceived as a trade that is not as saturated, making it a more attractive option for investors looking for new opportunities.
Strong ETF Inflows: Despite a market correction in Q4, XRP-focused funds have continued to attract investments, with CNBC noting, "Investors kept adding money to XRP-focused funds."

In summary, XRP's promising prospects have caught the attention of investors and analysts alike, marking it as a significant contender in the cryptocurrency landscape as we approach 2026.