XRP Investors Eye $12 Milestone Despite Market Volatility

XRP continues to capture the attention of crypto enthusiasts, who are actively debating its ability to climb into double-digit territory despite its current valuation near $2.

The latest round of community speculation was sparked by a post shared by well-followed crypto analyst “Ripple Van Winkle.” In his message, Winkle suggested that if XRP were to surge to $12 and then retrace to $6, experienced institutional investors would view the pullback as a strategic opportunity—while retail investors might panic sell due to perceived losses.

According to Winkle’s theory, the $6 mark could become a new baseline for XRP, serving as a consolidation point after reaching higher levels. While many retail holders might focus on the dramatic 50% drop from the $12 peak, “smart money” investors would likely consider $6 an attractive buying zone, preparing for future gains.

This perspective gained considerable traction, prompting discussions across crypto forums and social media about long-term strategy versus short-term panic reactions.

Double-Digit Dreams Tempered by Market Realities

Still, not everyone shares this lofty optimism. Crypto user Jenny Lemaire responded to Winkle’s proposition with a dose of pragmatism. While she agreed with the idea of institutional resilience, she voiced skepticism about how soon XRP might even approach $12, citing its prolonged performance below previous highs.

XRP has remained beneath its all-time high for more than seven years, and although 2025 has brought renewed hope of a breakout, the climb remains slow. Many in the community are cautiously entertaining the notion of a double-digit future for XRP, yet it remains merely a projection for now.

Some in the XRP community argue that the digital asset’s trajectory is increasingly influenced by institutional interest rather than retail hype. This evolving dynamic suggests that dramatic price corrections—such as a drop from $12 to $6—could be less catastrophic, instead signaling a moment for accumulation by experienced players. This belief rests on the assumption that fundamentals, rather than sentiment, are becoming the dominant price driver.

Veterans Urge Patience as XRP Struggles to Break Out

Meanwhile, long-time holder Randhir Gangsi offered a level-headed reminder to manage expectations. He pointed out that XRP continues to trade in a relatively narrow range between $2.30 and $2.45, cautioning that talk of reaching $12 is premature unless XRP first surpasses its previous high. Gangsi emphasized that true value and price appreciation should stem from meaningful adoption, not speculation.

This sentiment was echoed by Marc, a veteran crypto investor who shared his fatigue with XRP’s performance over the years. He noted the emotional strain caused by holding through multiple down cycles. Marc admitted that should XRP touch $6, he would likely have already exited the market due to the psychological toll of prolonged underperformance. For him and others like him, the dream of selling at $12 seems increasingly distant.

These conversations underscore a growing divide within the XRP community. On one side are dreamers envisioning massive price spikes fueled by institutional backing; on the other are realists grounded in the coin’s past disappointments. The tension between these camps reflects broader uncertainties in the digital asset market.

Related voices also weighed in, urging a balance between optimism and realism. A separate analysis advised investors to avoid overestimating XRP’s potential return without tangible signs of performance improvements. Analysts pointed out that while the technology and institutional interest are promising, they haven’t yet translated into significant price growth.

When Could XRP Realistically Reach $12?

While some social media analysts suggest XRP could break the $10 mark as early as this year, research from asset management firms points to a longer timeline. Bitwise Asset Management’s recent report outlines possible scenarios for XRP’s ascent. The firm forecasts that, under optimal market conditions, XRP might hit $12 by 2028. If those conditions fall short, the target date could extend to 2030.

Analysts at Telegaon reportedly share similar outlooks, suggesting that while XRP has significant upside potential, it is unlikely to materialize in the near term without major catalysts or a prolonged bull market.

Related: Expert Advice: Sell XRP If You’re Confused

As of now, the XRP community finds itself in a state of cautious anticipation. The dream of hitting $12 remains alive, but seasoned voices remind investors to balance expectations with patience, strategy, and an understanding of historical trends.