XRP Surge Marks Long-Awaited Win for Holders

XRP, the digital asset associated with Ripple, has finally rewarded long-suffering holders as it breaks through key price thresholds, with prominent industry figures calling it “about time.”

Ripple’s native token, XRP, recently exceeded $3.50 for the first time in years, drawing praise from long-time advocates. Notably, pro-XRP attorney John Deaton welcomed the breakout, describing it as a justified milestone for investors who have endured a prolonged period of underperformance and regulatory setbacks.

This recent bullish momentum has propelled XRP back into the headlines. Just days after reclaiming the $3 mark, it continued its climb, peaking at $3.53—a 71.1% increase in the past three months. Michael Arrington, the founder of Arrington Capital, hinted at XRP’s resurgence in a playful tone, suggesting on social media that the token was “showing off.”

Years of Regulatory Struggles Finally Easing

John Deaton, who represented 75,000 XRP holders in court, remarked that this price spike was “long overdue.” He emphasized that retail investors had endured four difficult years, largely due to regulatory actions. The SEC’s lawsuit against Ripple created significant obstacles, particularly in late 2020 when major platforms like Coinbase and Kraken removed XRP from their listings, sending its value tumbling below $0.18.

Though XRP was relisted on key exchanges in July 2023 following a favorable court ruling, uncertainty lingered due to ongoing appeals. Speculation was rampant that the legal battle might drag into 2026, keeping prices stagnant.

However, things began to shift significantly in late 2024. The resignation of SEC Chairman Gary Gensler sparked renewed optimism. Subsequent developments in 2025, including the decision by both the SEC and Ripple to drop their appeals, cleared the path for broader adoption. These legal resolutions opened opportunities for greater institutional entry and renewed retail confidence, helping XRP breach the $3.50 threshold.

Deaton noted that, after all the setbacks and suppression, XRP’s resurgence represents a well-deserved reward for the community that continued to believe in its long-term value.

Investors React: From Lamborghinis to Regrets

XRP’s latest bull run has sparked a mix of celebration and remorse among investors. Celebrated trader CrediBULL took to social media to reflect on his investment journey. He revealed how a $10,000 investment he made in December 2019 had multiplied significantly. Back then, he bought 53,692 XRP at an average price of $0.1835, hoping it would eventually lead him to owning a Lamborghini.

As XRP climbs to $3.65, that portfolio is now worth approximately $196,000—an 18-fold increase. CrediBULL’s story has become symbolic of the rally’s financial rewards and the patience exercised by long-term XRP holders. His earlier prediction has now materialized, further fueling the bullish sentiment within the XRP community.

However, not everyone is celebrating. Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy recently expressed regret over his timing. According to a report, Portnoy confessed on Twitter that he had sold his XRP holdings just two weeks before the surge, stating bluntly that he had nothing further to add. His admission highlights the challenges of timing in the crypto market and the emotional rollercoaster that often accompanies it.

Related: XRP Price: $12M Max Pain for Bears

While XRP’s current gains have ignited widespread excitement, they also serve as a powerful reminder of the token’s turbulent history. For years, XRP was one of the most controversial digital assets in the regulatory spotlight. Now, with obstacles largely behind it, the market is finally recognizing what long-time supporters like Deaton have believed all along: XRP’s potential is not only real—it’s just beginning to unfold.