XRP’s Institutional Ascension: The BIS Tier-1 Classification Catalyst

The potential classification of XRP as a Tier-1 asset by the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) represents a watershed moment that could fundamentally reshape the cryptocurrency's trajectory and its role in the global financial architecture. According to analysis from industry leaders like Jake Claver, CEO of Digital Ascension Group, such recognition WOULD not merely be a regulatory nod but a powerful endorsement that could unlock XRP's long-theorized potential as a global bridge currency. This development sits at the confluence of growing institutional adoption and the pressing need for more efficient, cost-effective cross-border settlement systems—a core focus area for the BIS itself. The immediate market implication is a powerful bullish catalyst, with the prospect of significant price appreciation as institutional capital flows adjust to accommodate a new, high-quality liquid asset. Beyond price, Tier-1 status would integrate XRP into the bedrock of institutional finance, enhancing its liquidity, reducing perceived risk, and validating its utility on the world's largest stage. As of early 2026, this narrative is fueling positive market sentiment, positioning XRP not just as a cryptocurrency, but as a potential pillar of the future monetary system.

XRP Price Could Surge If BIS Recognizes It as Tier-1 Asset

XRP's price may experience significant upside if the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) classifies it as a tier-1 asset. This development could position XRP as a global bridge currency, according to Jake Claver, CEO of Digital Ascension Group.

Market sentiment around XRP has been buoyed by growing institutional interest. The cryptocurrency's utility in cross-border payments aligns with BIS's focus on efficient settlement systems.

A tier-1 designation would likely trigger renewed investor confidence and liquidity inflows. Such recognition typically signals regulatory approval and enhances an asset's credibility among traditional financial institutions.

Crypto Founder Predicts Major XRP Price Surge

A prominent cryptocurrency founder has hinted at an imminent, explosive price movement for XRP, suggesting the market may be underestimating its potential. The token's recent rally to $2.40 has already drawn significant attention, with analysts now speculating about further upside.

XRP's growing momentum reflects broader institutional interest in altcoins with strong use cases. Market observers note the token's resilience despite regulatory challenges, positioning it as a standout performer in the current cycle.

XRP Faces Pullback as Momentum Wanes Amid Institutional Accumulation

XRP shows signs of fading bullish momentum as price action weakens, yet on-chain data reveals continued accumulation by ETF clients and institutional entities. The token's recent underperformance against major cryptocurrencies raises questions about its near-term trajectory.

Market observers note divergent signals: retail traders are taking profits while custody wallets linked to investment funds show steady inflows. This institutional demand could provide a floor for prices despite technical indicators suggesting further downside.

The $0.55 level emerges as critical support, with derivatives markets reflecting growing caution. Open interest in XRP futures has declined 18% since January highs, though options traders maintain elevated call positions for Q1 expiry.

WisdomTree Abandons XRP ETF Plans, Triggering 6% Price Drop

WisdomTree has abruptly withdrawn its S-1 registration for a spot XRP ETF, citing undisclosed reasons for halting the December 2024 proposal. The SEC filing confirms no shares were sold during the registration period.

XRP immediately reacted with a 6% decline to $2.28, breaking key support at $2.30. The retreat comes despite $1.25 billion in cumulative inflows to XRP-based ETFs this year, including $19 million from Franklin Templeton on the withdrawal day.

Market observers note the withdrawal contradicts growing institutional interest, as evidenced by competing products. WisdomTree’s exit leaves the SEC’s extended review period—now lasting until October 2025—without a primary applicant.

Ripple Rejects IPO Path as $40B Valuation and Private Backers Fuel Expansion

Ripple has definitively shut down speculation about pursuing an IPO, opting instead to leverage its $40 billion valuation and strong balance sheet for private expansion. The fintech firm's recent $500 million funding round—backed by Wall Street institutions—signals confidence in its long-term roadmap without public market participation.

The decision reflects strategic acquisitions in 2025 that enhanced its payments infrastructure, particularly through the XRP Ledger ecosystem. Regulatory tailwinds and surging demand for enterprise blockchain solutions have reduced the need for public capital, with Ripple emphasizing its "private-by-design" advantage in navigating the digital asset landscape.

Notably, the rapid adoption of RLUSD stablecoin and treasury management tools has strengthened Ripple's position in cross-border settlements. Market observers note the company's trajectory mirrors private tech unicorns like Stripe that delayed IPOs amid abundant private funding.

Ripple’s GTreasury Acquires Solvexia: What It Means for XRP and RLUSD

Ripple has kicked off 2026 with a strategic acquisition through GTreasury, its treasury management subsidiary. The purchase of Sydney-based fintech Solvexia marks a significant step in integrating XRP and RLUSD into traditional finance workflows. Solvexia’s no-code automation tools streamline reconciliation and regulatory reporting, addressing critical pain points for finance teams.

The deal, announced on January 6, positions GTreasury to offer 100x faster processing with 98% fewer errors compared to manual methods. Solvexia’s platform connects payment gateways, banking systems, and ERPs, supporting both fiat and digital asset transactions. This MOVE underscores the growing institutional demand for crypto-compatible infrastructure.

“Organizations shouldn’t rely on manual processes that introduce fraud risk,” GTreasury emphasized in its announcement. The acquisition accelerates Ripple’s push to bridge the gap between legacy finance and blockchain-based solutions.