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Ripple Maps Out 4-Phase Plan to Make XRP Ledger Quantum-Ready by 2028

Jakkk
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Ripple Maps Out 4-Phase Plan to Make XRP Ledger Quantum-Ready by 2028

Ripple, a US-based fintech company focused on blockchain and cryptocurrency solutions, is looking far beyond today’s crypto challenges. The company has unveiled a detailed four-phase roadmap to make the XRP Ledger (XRPL) resistant to quantum computing attacks by 2028—a move that reflects how seriously the industry is beginning to take future security risks.

While quantum computers aren’t breaking blockchains yet, the timeline is getting closer. And according to Ripple, waiting is no longer an option. 

Recent warnings from Google Quantum AI have added urgency, suggesting advanced quantum machines could challenge blockchain encryption sooner than expected, with some analysts pointing to 2029 as “Q-Day.” 

The Growing Quantum Threats to XRPL

The rise of quantum computing is slowly shifting from a general idea to something the crypto world has to take seriously—especially for the XRP Ledger. It’s not an immediate threat, but the direction things are moving in is hard to ignore.

Recent insights from Google Quantum AI suggest that breaking today’s cryptographic systems might not require as much power as researchers once thought. In simple terms, the timeline could be shorter than we expected—and that’s where concerns start to build.

For XRPL, the risks show up in a few key ways:

1. Breaking cryptographic signatures

Right now, transactions are protected by strong encryption. But powerful quantum machines could eventually crack those protections, opening the door to forged signatures or even unauthorized access to funds.

2. “Harvest now, decrypt later” problem

This one’s a bit unsettling. Data that’s encrypted today could be quietly collected by attackers and stored. Then, once quantum tech becomes strong enough, that same data could be decrypted years down the line—putting long-term holders at risk without them even realizing it.

3. Public key exposure

The moment a wallet interacts on-chain, parts of its cryptographic identity become visible. Today, that’s not an issue. But in a quantum-capable future, those exposed keys could turn into easy targets.

As quantum capabilities keep improving, these risks move from “theoretical” to “practical.” And that’s exactly why Ripple is choosing to act early, strengthening the network before the threat can catch up.

Ripple’s 4-Phase Plan Explained

Rather than rushing into a risky overhaul, Ripple is taking a 4-phased, practical approach.

Phase 1: Q-Day Readiness 

Ripple’s first move is about readiness. Think of it as an emergency plan for the moment quantum computing becomes a real threat.

This phase focuses on making sure users can quickly move their assets to safer, quantum-resistant accounts if needed. It’s less about changing the system right away and more about making sure nothing gets caught off guard.

Phase 2: Testing Post-Quantum cryptography

Next comes experimentation. Ripple plans to test new types of cryptographic algorithms- especially those being developed as part of global post-quantum standards.

This phase is about assessing the full impact of post-quantum cryptography (PQC) on XRPL and expanding experimentation with industry-standard, NIST-recommended algorithms.

But this isn’t just about security. These new systems need to be fast, cost-efficient, and scalable. If they slow the network down or increase fees, they won’t work in the real world. So this phase is all about balancing security with performance.

Phase 3: Controlled Transition

Once the tech looks solid, it moves into testnets. This is where developers can actually use quantum-resistant signatures in a controlled environment.

It’s a critical step. Bugs get fixed here. Performance gets optimized here. And most importantly, it happens without putting real user funds at risk.

Phase 4: Full Upgrade on the XRP Ledger

The final step is the big one—bringing quantum-resistant cryptography to the live XRP Ledger.

If everything goes as planned, this would make the network significantly more secure against future quantum attacks. Ripple is aiming to complete this transition by 2028.

Built-In Advantage of XRPL

The XRP Ledger already has some structural advantages. One of its underrated strengths is key rotation. In simple terms, users can update their cryptographic keys without touching their funds. That might not sound flashy, but in a future where security risks evolve fast, that kind of flexibility can make a real difference. Not every blockchain is built to handle that smoothly.

And this isn’t just a “we’ll figure it out later” situation. Ripple is already teaming up with Project Eleven to accelerate early experimentation

 It’s early, sure—but it shows this is more than just talk. The wheels are already turning.

Bigger Picture for Crypto

Ripple’s roadmap signals a shift in how the crypto industry is thinking. This isn’t about reacting to hacks anymore; it’s about preparing for threats that don’t fully exist yet but are becoming increasingly realistic.

As quantum computing advances, the real competition among blockchains may come down to one thing: who can stay secure the longest.

The Bottom Line

This roadmap from Ripple isn’t just another update; it feels more like a long-term survival plan. With a 2028 goal in sight, early testing already in motion, and some built-in advantages, the XRP Ledger is trying to stay ahead of a problem that could catch others off guard.

Quantum computing might still seem a few steps away- but Ripple is clearly treating it like something that’s already on the way.

For more on XRP Ripple news today and the latest XRP price market updates, visit our dedicated coverage hub.

XRP Has Averaged 86,000 New Wallets Per Month in 2026

Sam Wisdom Raphael
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0
XRP Has Averaged 86,000 New Wallets Per Month in 2026

The XRP Ledger (XRPL) has welcomed an average of 86,000 new wallets each month so far this year despite declining XRP prices.

While the recent figures represent a decline from last year’s records, they confirm that the XRP ecosystem has continued to record new interest from investors despite the XRP price being down 22% this year, slipping below the $2 mark.

Key Points

  • Despite recent rebound efforts, the XRP price is still down 22% this year.
  • Throughout the year, XRP has recorded consistent monthly losses, with March 2026 being the sixth consecutive red candle.
  • XRP has recorded an average of 86,000 new wallets each month despite the persistent drawdown.
  • This remains lower than the 137,000 average witnessed last year during the bull run.
  • Total XRP wallets have now increased to 7,805,241, an addition of 343,000 wallets this year so far.

XRP Down Despite Recent Relief Bounce

This is according to on-chain data provided by the community-driven Rich List analytics platform amid XRP’s price struggles despite the latest market-wide relief bounce.

For context, the XRP price, which began 2026 with an impressive push toward $2.41, has since continued to record lower highs and lower lows, closing January below the pivotal $2 mark and slipping further below $1.5 by the end of February.

XRP has recorded six consecutive monthly losses since October 2025, with three of those losses coming from 2016. The asset started April with weak momentum, putting it at risk of a seventh consecutive monthly loss, but it has since recovered, up 6.8% this month. Still, the price remains down 22% this year.

XRP Has Averaged 86,000 New Wallets Per Month

Despite the price struggles, the XRP ecosystem has continued to grow in actual use cases and adoption. Specifically, XRP has welcomed exactly 343,777 new wallets since the start of 2026. With the end of April just a week away, this translates to an average of 80,000 new wallets every month.

So far, February has witnessed the highest monthly growth rate this year, recording over 109,000 new XRP wallets despite the XRP price collapsing 16.32% that month. This represented XRP’s largest monthly decline since the 29.41% drop in February 2025. 

Meanwhile, January saw nearly 95,000 new XRP wallets, while March recorded just 87,119 new addresses. This month, April 2026, may be on track to witness the lowest increase rate, with just 52,411 new wallets so far. Overall, these additions have now pushed total XRP wallets to 7,805,241 at press time.

Total Hosted XRP Wallets
Total Hosted XRP Wallets

An Observable Decline 

At the current rate, the XRP Ledger may be on track to cross the 8.5 million wallet milestone by the end of the year, potentially welcoming about 1.06 million addresses this year. However, this would represent an observable decline in the figure recorded last year.

Specifically, in 2025, the XRP Ledger welcomed a total of 1.645 million new wallets. This translates to an average of more than 137,000 new addresses each month. While adoption has slowed from the previous year’s record, XRP’s ability to maintain a high rate of new wallets despite the current downtrend confirms genuine interest from investors.

Bitcoin Price Analysis: Three Signs BTC Has Bottomed

Elendu Benedict
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Bitcoin Price Analysis: Three Signs BTC Has Bottomed

Bitcoin is beginning to show signs that the recent downtrend may be losing momentum, with several on-chain indicators suggesting a bottom.

Notably, Bitcoin (BTC) has yet to start its famous bull phase, characterized by massive price surges. Still, on-chain data suggests the market may be entering a stabilization phase, signaling a shift away from the intense selling pressure seen earlier in the cycle.

Key Points

  • Market analyst Ali Martinez highlighted three factors suggesting Bitcoin may have bottomed.
  • One of the clearest signals comes from the Sharpe Ratio, which has recovered from -43 recently to 20.35.
  • Data shows the share of network value held by recent buyers has fallen below 7%, a level historically associated with early bull phases.
  • Recent flows show Bitcoin increasingly moving toward derivative platforms.
  • Bitcoin has held above a key support level near $73,700, which aligns with the -0.5 MVRV pricing band, and holding it paves the way for $96,000.

Signs that Bitcoin Has Bottomed

In an X commentary, market analyst Ali Martinez highlighted three reasons why Bitcoin, the largest cryptocurrency by market cap, has bottomed. The view joins a growing class of prominent market observers claiming that its February lows around $60,000 might just be the asset’s base.

According to Martinez, one of the clearest signals comes from the Sharpe Ratio, a metric used to assess returns relative to risk. After dropping to deeply negative levels near -43 recently, the ratio has rebounded into positive territory, reaching 20.35.

Bitcoin Sharpe Ratio/CryptoQuant
Bitcoin Sharpe Ratio/CryptoQuant

Martinez noted that this type of recovery typically reflects a transition from uncertainty to more balanced market conditions, in which volatility is being absorbed, and price action begins to normalize.

Declining Retail Activity and Supply Shift

Another important trend is the sharp decline in short-term holder dominance. Data from CryptoQuant tracking the share of network value held by recent buyers shows that this segment has fallen below 7%, a level historically associated with quieter market phases.

When this happens, it often indicates that speculative activity has faded and that the remaining supply is concentrated among longer-term holders.

Bitcoin realized Cap Percentage/CryptoQuant
Bitcoin realized Cap Percentage/CryptoQuant

A recent report from The Crypto Basic confirmed this, too. Over the past 30 days, short-term holders have sold 290,000 BTC, while long-term holders have acquired 303,000 BTC. During this period, institutions like Strategy have procured 53,000 BTC, and the Bitcoin spot ETFs have attracted 16,800 BTC.

According to the analyst, this shift tends to reduce immediate selling pressure because long-term participants are generally less responsive to short-term price swings. Previous cycles have shown similar patterns near market lows, where reduced retail involvement coincided with the early stages of recovery.

At the same time, movements between exchanges provide insight into sentiment among more market participants. Recent flows show Bitcoin increasingly moving toward derivative platforms. Interestingly, this behavior is often linked to positioning strategies that anticipate higher prices, in which assets serve as collateral in leveraged setups.

Key Bitcoin Price Levels to Watch

From a valuation standpoint, pricing models based on realized value offer clues to the key levels to watch from the current standing. Martinez used the Market Value-to-Realized Value (MVRV) pricing bands to provide context.

Notably, Bitcoin has held above a key support level near $73,700, which aligns with the -0.5 MVRV pricing band. Maintaining this level keeps the path open for a move back toward the broader mean price range, estimated around $96,000.

However, if that support fails, the outlook will shift, with potential downside extending toward lower valuation bands near the realized price of $55,000.

Why Is Cardano ADA Falling Down Right Now?

Jakkk
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0
Why Is Cardano ADA Falling Down Right Now?

Cardano has seen a steady price drop, and many investors are trying to understand why. The Cardano ADA price downtrend is not caused by a single reason. It is a mix of market pressure and slow ecosystem growth.

In 2025, ADA has struggled to keep pace with faster-growing blockchains. Also, Cardano has often lagged behind while the broader crypto market has seen cycles of recovery. Now, this has raised concerns among traders and long-term holders. As of early 2026, Cardano is trading around 0.25–$0.26, reflecting continued weak momentum compared to earlier cycles.

You need to look at multiple factors together because price movement alone does not give the full picture. Market trends and investor behavior all play a role. In this blog, we’ve talked about the key reasons behind the Cardano ADA price downtrend, including market conditions and investor sentiment.

ADA at a Glance: How Far Has It Fallen?

Cardano has seen a clear drop over the past year. In early 2025, ADA traded near $0.80. By 2026, it has struggled around the $0.25–$0.26 range. That represents a ~62% drop.

This decline shows weak momentum. It also reflects lower investor confidence. Many traders are moving funds into faster-moving assets.

  • Down ~62% from its 2025 highs
  • Trading below $0.50 for several months
  • Lower trading volume compared to 2024

This drop is not sudden. It has been gradual and steady. That often signals deeper issues, not just short-term panic.

Top 6 Reasons Why Cardano ADA Is Falling Down Right Now

The fall in ADA price is not random. Several strong factors are pushing it down, and when you look at them together, the pattern becomes clear.

Each factor affects price in a different way. Some are short-term triggers, while others show deeper issues, and understanding both helps you make better decisions.

1. The Broader Crypto Market Selloff Is Dragging ADA Down

The crypto market moves together more than many expect. When large assets fall, smaller ones follow. Cardano is not immune to this trend.

In 2025, several market corrections hit altcoins hard. Even strong projects saw declines. ADA was affected more due to its already weak momentum. Here’s what changed in the market:

  • Altcoin market cap dropped over 20% in key periods
  • Risk-off sentiment pushed traders to safer assets
  • Liquidity moved away from mid-cap tokens

When the market weakens, ADA falls faster. This is because it lacks strong demand during downturns.

2. Bitcoin Dominance Is Crushing Altcoins Like Cardano

Bitcoin dominance has increased in 2025. This means more money is flowing into Bitcoin instead of altcoins. Now, when this happens, assets like ADA lose strength.

Traders prefer safer options during uncertain times. Bitcoin becomes the preferred choice, while altcoins receive less attention and capital.

  • Bitcoin dominance crossed 50-55% in 2025. In 2026, Bitcoin dominance remains above 50%, continuing to pull liquidity away from altcoins like Cardano.
  • Altcoin inflows dropped sharply
  • ADA lost market share among top coins

This shift reduces buying pressure on Cardano. Less demand means lower prices, as also highlighted in recent updates by The Crypto Basic.

3. Institutional Traders Are Shorting ADA – What the Data Shows

Big traders make a significant contribution to price movement. ADA is showing cautious positioning in derivatives data in recent months, with increased market hedging.

This is what recent statistics show:

  • ADA futures markets have open interest.
  • Interest rates have even become negative.
  • Mixed sentiment among large holders is reflected in price volatility.

The tendency contributes to negative dynamics in the Cardano price and overall market confidence.

4. Ecosystem Stagnation: Is Cardano Losing Ground to Solana and Sui?

Cardano once had strong developer support. But in 2025, newer chains have grown faster. Platforms like Solana and Sui are attracting more projects and users.

This shift affects perception. When developers move elsewhere, growth slows. That impacts long-term value. Here’s what reflects this slowdown:

  • Lower DeFi total value locked compared to competitors
  • Fewer new dApps launched in 2025
  • Slower transaction growth

This raises concerns about Cardano’s future. It also impacts any Cardano ADA price going forward.

5. Bearish Technicals: ADA Trading Below All Key Moving Averages

Technical analysis shows a weak trend. ADA has stayed below key moving averages for months. This signals a strong bearish phase.

Traders use these signals to decide entry and exit points. Also, selling pressure increases when the price stays below these levels. Here’s what the technical data shows:

  • Trading below 50-day and 200-day averages
  • Lower highs and lower lows pattern
  • Weak RSI showing a lack of momentum

These signals often keep traders away. That reduces buying support.

6. Geopolitical and Macro Headwinds Adding to Selling Pressure

Global factors also affect crypto markets. In 2025, economic uncertainty reduced risk appetite and investors shifted to safer assets. Crypto sees reduced inflow. Here are the main factors behind this:

  • High interest rates in major economies
  • Inflation concerns affecting investments
  • Lower retail participation

These factors add pressure on ADA. They make recovery slower.

The “Ghost Chain” Narrative Is Back – Is It Fair?

Cardano has often faced criticism. Some call it a “ghost chain” due to low activity. This narrative has returned in 2025.

Perception matters in crypto. Even if partially true, it can affect investor behavior. Here’s what is driving this narrative:

  • Lower daily active users compared to peers
  • Fewer trending projects on the network
  • Limited buzz on social platforms

Key Support Levels to Watch Before ADA Falls Further

Support levels help you understand risk and possible price movement. These levels show where buyers may step in. When prices break below them, it often leads to more selling.

Right now, ADA is testing important zones. These levels can decide what happens next in the short term. You should track them closely if you are planning any entry or exit.

  • Strong support near $0.30
  • Secondary support around $0.25
  • Resistance near $0.50

For example, ADA may quickly move toward $0.25 if it drops below $0.30 with strong selling volume. This kind of move often happens when traders lose confidence at key levels.

On the other hand, you may see a short-term bounce if the price holds above $0.30. But a move toward $0.50 would need positive market sentiment.

If support breaks, selling may increase. If it holds, a bounce is possible. Also, watching these levels can help you manage risk and make better decisions.

What Could Trigger a Recovery? Upcoming Catalysts to Know

Despite the drop, recovery is possible. But it needs strong triggers. Without them, the trend may stay weak.

You should watch upcoming developments closely. They can shift sentiment quickly. Small signals often come before big moves, so pay attention. Here are the key catalysts to watch:

  • New ecosystem upgrades
  • Increased developer activity
  • Partnerships or integrations
  • Improved market conditions

If Cardano upgrades speed or fees, it can attract users and raise ADA demand. More dApps mean higher trust in Cardano. This often leads to higher usage and better long-term value. You can compare this with how other chains saw growth after developer activity increased.

Partnerships also matter. Cardano can bring new users into the ecosystem if it partners with real-world companies. This adoption often improves sentiment.

Is This a Buying Opportunity or a Falling Knife?

This is a common question among investors. A price drop can look like a good entry. But it carries risk.

You need to assess your strategy. Short-term and long-term views are different. Timing matters, and rushing in can lead to losses if the trend continues downward.

  • Long-term investors may see value
  • Short-term traders face high volatility
  • Risk management is important

Some investors wait for signs of stability before entering. Others invest small amounts over time to reduce risk. But, both approaches depend on your goals and patience. Do not rely only on price drops. Look at fundamentals before deciding.

Expert Outlook: Where Does ADA Go From Here

Experts have mixed views. Some see long-term potential. Others remain cautious due to slow growth.

The future depends on execution. Development and adoption will decide the direction. Network upgrades, real use cases, and user growth will matter more than promises.

Right now, on-chain data shows moderate activity but not strong growth. Daily active addresses in 2025 have stayed stable but have not shown sharp increases. DeFi activity on Cardano is still lower than that of the top competitors. Here are the possible scenarios:

  • Bullish case: recovery toward $0.80–$1 in the long term
  • Bearish case: continued range below $0.50
  • Neutral case: slow recovery with market support

You should also watch a few key signals going forward. These can help you understand where ADA might head next:

  • Increase in developer activity and new dApps
  • Growth in total value locked (TVL) on the network
  • Higher user activity and wallet growth
  • Stronger partnerships or real-world use cases

Market sentiment will also play a big role. ADA can benefit from that momentum if the broader crypto market improves. If conditions stay weak, recovery may take longer.

Conclusion

The Cardano ADA price down trend is driven by multiple factors. Market pressure and low investor confidence all play a role. This is not just a short-term dip. It reflects deeper challenges that Cardano needs to address.

At the same time, recovery is still possible. Strong updates and improved sentiment can change the direction. You need to stay informed and track real data. The Crypto Basic can help you follow updates and understand market movement clearly.

FAQs

1. Why is Cardano ADA price down in 2025–2026?

The Cardano ADA price down trend is due to weak market sentiment and rising Bitcoin dominance. It is also affected by slower growth and fewer developers than its competitors.

2. Is Cardano a good long-term investment?

It depends on development and adoption. Also, long-term growth is possible, but current momentum is weak.

3. What is the latest Cardano ADA price prediction?

A realistic Cardano ADA price prediction ranges between $0.30 to $1, depending on market recovery and ecosystem growth.

4. How does Cardano compare to competitors now?

Cardano is slower in growth compared to chains like Solana. This affects user activity and overall market perception.

Strategy Buys 34,164 Bitcoin for $2.54 billion, Third-Largest Purchase on Record

Jakkk
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0
Strategy Buys 34,164 Bitcoin for $2.54 billion, Third-Largest Purchase on Record

Michael Saylor’s Strategy Inc. diversified its crypto portfolio with one of the largest Bitcoin purchases ever recorded. The company acquired about 34,164 BTC for approximately $2.54 billion, making this the third-largest Bitcoin purchase ever.

This acquisition strengthened Strategy’s position as the largest corporate holder of Bitcoin globally. The deal was executed between April 13 and April 19, 2026, under the “Serial Cryptocurrency Acquirer Strategy,” an aggressive business model pioneered by Strategy Inc. (formerly MicroStrategy). 

A Massive Bet on Bitcoin

At an average purchase price of around $74,395 per Bitcoin, Strategy now owns approximately 3.88% of the global 21 million BTC supply. Following this acquisition, their Bitcoin holdings have surged to 815,061 BTC, accumulated at a total cost of approximately $61.56 billion. This milestone cements Strategy Inc.’s dominance in the corporate Bitcoin space. 

This deal signifies that institutional demand for Bitcoin remains intact in the market. The company has consistently used market dips to accumulate more BTC, reinforcing its belief in Bitcoin as a long-term valuable asset.

According to Executive Chairman Michael Saylor, the company has also achieved a 9.5% Bitcoin yield year-to-date in 2026, reflecting its performance-focused treasury strategy.

How the Purchase Was Funded

Led by Michael Saylor, the corporation relied on capital markets to fund its Bitcoin expansion. It used the company’s balance sheet to systematically acquire and “HODL” Bitcoin (BTC) as its primary treasury reserve asset. Under the HODL “Hold On for Dear Life” policy, the company acquires the digital asset while refusing to sell it to buyers. 

The strategy makes Bitcoin the company’s primary treasury reserve asset. This approach began in 2020 and has remained central to the company’s financial strategy ever since.

The “Stretch” Strategy

The deal was primarily financed through $2.18 billion raised via STRC. The company’s “Stretch” (STRC) Preferred Stock strategy powered this deal without burdening its cash reserve. This funding tool helps Strategy Inc. raise steady capital even in a fluctuating market. 

By offering investors a high-yield, relatively stable investment option, the company creates a new source of liquidity. The stretch strategy allows the corporation to continue buying Bitcoin consistently. 

The company raised funds primarily through:

  • Preferred stock (STRC) issuance
  • Common stock sales
  • Ongoing at-the-market equity programs

This approach allows Strategy to convert investor capital directly into Bitcoin exposure, effectively turning its stock into a proxy for BTC investment.

Impact of the Deal on the Bitcoin Market

With this deal, Strategy has replaced BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) to rank as the world’s largest corporate bitcoin holder. The company BTC reserve touched $63,129 with this latest purchase. 

Such large-scale purchases like this often influence market sentiment. According to the current crypto market status, the purchase has stabilized the price volatility for Bitcoin. 

Bitcoin Price Hike: The immediate market reaction was seen as Bitcoin’s price climbed approximately 6%. The value is now estimated at roughly $77,500–$78,000 following the announcement.

Supply Shock: The purchase limited the availability of specific cryptocurrency from the market, as Strategy maintains a “HODL” policy until at least the early 2030s.

Strategy Inc’s Road to 1 Million BTC 

The company is currently on pace to reach 1 million BTC by the end of this year. The company aims to acquire 1 million Bitcoin by the end of 2026. With this deal, Strategy has successfully acquired 815,061 BTC as of April 2026. 

By utilizing a mix of equity and debt, the firm has surpassed BlackRock to become the world’s largest institutional Bitcoin holder. As more Bitcoin moves into their long-term holdings, the available supply continues to shrink, which supports the company’s long-term bullish outlook. At its current pace, reaching this milestone within the next 12 to 18 months looks increasingly possible.

Stay updated with real-time Bitcoin news and crypto trends on The Crypto Basic.

Cardano Founder Says: “I Want ADA to Be Number 1 on CoinMarketCap — I Want to Win”

Lele Jima
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Cardano Founder Says: “I Want ADA to Be Number 1 on CoinMarketCap — I Want to Win”

Charles Hoskinson has outlined an ambitious vision for Cardano, revealing his intention to push ADA to the top spot on CoinMarketCap. 

He shared this goal during a recent X Spaces session titled Kick-Off: The Cardano 2026 Proposals, hosted by Input Output Global. During the session, the team discussed its 2026 funding proposal.

Key Points

  • Charles Hoskinson has outlined an ambitious vision to push Cardano to the top spot on CoinMarketCap.
  • He argues that ADA can reach this milestone by expanding investment across Cardano’s broader ecosystem strategy.
  • Achieving the number one position would require ADA to surge by more than 17,500% from its current valuation of $8.93 billion.
  • Hoskinson also shares a bold ambition to “win the war for a better world,” positioning Cardano and Midnight at the center of that vision.

Cardano Eyes Top Spot for ADA in Crypto Ranking

During the discussion, Hoskinson emphasized that Cardano is entering a defining phase. He noted that while the network has built a strong foundation over the past decade, it has yet to fully unlock its potential.

Consequently, he called for a sharper focus on execution, with the explicit aim of elevating ADA to the top of the crypto rankings. While Cardano pioneered several innovations, including the extended UTXO model, he suggested that these advancements must now translate into real-world impact.

In his view, success is no longer just about building robust technology; it is about competing in the ever-evolving crypto market. Therefore, he emphasized that he wants Cardano to be the number one cryptocurrency, stressing that he wants to win.

“I want to win, and I want Cardano to be number 1 on CoinMarketCap,” he remarked during the X Spaces.

Hoskinson Remains Confident Despite Steep Climb

Despite this bold ambition, ADA currently sits outside the top 10 cryptocurrencies. While it has historically ranked among the leading assets, it slipped in recent weeks and now sits at 13th on CoinMarketCap, with a valuation of about $8.93 billion.

To claim the number one spot, Cardano would need to surpass Bitcoin, which currently holds a market cap of roughly $1.56 trillion. This would require an extraordinary surge of around 17,500%.

Nonetheless, Hoskinson remains confident. He insists there is no structural reason Cardano cannot achieve this milestone. To get there, he stressed the need for sustained investment across the entire ecosystem’s technology. Rather than relying on a single entity, he advocates an ecosystem-driven approach in which multiple participants contribute to development and innovation.

IOG Unveils 2026 Treasury Proposals

Meanwhile, his company, Input Output, has submitted nine treasury proposals for 2026, outlining funding requests across key areas, including network upgrades, developer experience, Layer-2 scalability, consensus improvements, Plutus development, and the Pogun initiative. Collectively, these proposals aim to push Cardano into its next growth phase.

Notably, the funding request is less than half of last year’s allocation, signaling a more focused and execution-driven strategy. In addition, Delegated Representatives (DReps) have already begun voting, with the process set to continue until May 24, giving the community a direct role in shaping Cardano’s future.

Broader Mission

In a separate development, Hoskinson recently updated his X profile and cover image to reflect a mission centered on building a better world. He highlighted Cardano alongside Midnight as key pillars supporting privacy, interoperability, decentralization, and sustainability.

JUST IN: Charles Hoskinson updates his X profile picture and banner. "Building a better world is a war worth winning. Cardano: a Proof of Stake foundation. Midnight: Privacy is our right. Decentralization, sustainability, interoperability, privacy." ADA NIGHT

Ultimately, his message combines ambition with urgency. In his view, Cardano has laid the groundwork and must now execute at scale.

Dev Says Flare Has Built the Foundation for XRP Finance Following 8M FXRP Firelight Stake

Sam Wisdom Raphael
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Dev Says Flare Has Built the Foundation for XRP Finance Following 8M FXRP Firelight Stake

Kristaps Grinbergs, a developer relations engineer at Flare, said the network has already formed the foundation for XRP-focused decentralized finance. 

He made this statement after reports confirmed a single 8 million XRP stake on Flare’s staking protocol, Firelight. Notably, this stake transaction suggests that institutional investors are now increasingly entering the ecosystem.

Key Point

  • Hugo Philion confirmed that an institution deployed 8 million XRP into Firelight in a single transaction.
  • Kristaps Grinbergs said the transaction shows Flare has built the foundation for XRP-focused decentralized finance.
  • Firelight recorded 9.014 million FXRP inflow on April 21, the largest in over a month and second highest this year.
  • Total Firelight inflows have now hit 75.52 million FXRP, with 58.38 million FXRP net inflow.
  • Flare’s TVL now stands at 155.7 million XRP ($219.63 million), with Firelight taking a 32% share.

Firelight Records 8M XRP Single Stake

Grinbergs’ comment came in response to a disclosure from Hugo Philion, Flare’s co-founder. In a post on X, Philion pointed out that Firelight recently recorded a single stake transaction involving 8 million FXRP and asked his audience to consider whether an institution was testing the protocol. 

He later provided better context, confirming that an institution, which he has chosen to keep anonymous, had indeed deployed funds into Firelight. He also clarified that the recent transaction represents a real commitment from the institution, not just a test.

Responding, Grinbergs urged investors to recognize what this means. According to him, Flare has already created a solid foundation for XRP finance with FXRP and Firelight, adding that the team is still pushing forward.

On-Chain Data

On-chain data confirms the recent milestone. Specifically, as of April 21 at 13:00, Firelight recorded 9.014 million FXRP in inflows, with the single 8 million XRP stake making up most of that amount. This became the largest hourly inflow in over a month and the second highest recorded this year.

Large Firelight Inflow
Large Firelight Inflow

The only bigger inflow happened earlier, when Firelight saw 15.442 million XRP at 14:00 on March 18, 2026. The recent transaction pushed total inflows to 75.52 million FXRP, while outflows stood at 17.14 million FXRP. This leaves a net inflow of 58.38 million FXRP.

Across the broader network, Flare now holds a total value locked of 155.7 million XRP, worth about $219.63 million. Of this figure, Firelight alone accounts for $71.59 million, which represents an over 32% share.

XRP Hosted on Flare
XRP Hosted on Flare

Flare Building XRPFi Foundation with FXRP and Firelight 

Notably, Grinbergs’ comments considered the work deployed the Flare team into developing FXRP and Firelight for the XRP ecosystem.

For the uninitiated, FXRP works as a non-custodial, overcollateralized version of XRP, keeping a 1:1 value with the original asset. It runs on the Flare Network, allowing XRP to be used in smart contracts. FXRP is the first working example of Flare’s FAssets system, which brings assets like XRP into decentralized finance.

With FXRP, users can take part in activities such as lending, borrowing, staking, providing liquidity, and earning yields. These services are available across Flare’s ecosystem, including platforms like SparkDEX and BlazeSwap. This makes XRP more useful by allowing it to be used in different DeFi applications.

Meanwhile, Firelight is an institutional-level staking and protection system on Flare developed in partnership with Sentora. The platform allows users to stake FXRP and receive stXRP, a liquid token that can still be used in DeFi while earning rewards.

Timeline and Key Growth Points

Notably, FXRP launched on the Flare mainnet in September 2025, with the initial minting limit set at 5 million FXRP in the first week. Within just 4 hours, investors hit the limit, with 5 million XRP, worth $15 million at the time, already minted. This led the team to expand the limit sooner than expected.

In December 2025, Firelight officially went live, starting with Phase 1 focused on liquid staking through stXRP. Users could bridge XRP, mint FXRP, and deposit it into Firelight’s Launch Vault to receive stXRP. Early demand was strong, and the initial deposit cap of around 25 million FXRP filled quickly.

The growth has continued into early 2026. By February 2026, 100 million XRP had been converted into FXRP, with about 70% already used in DeFi. Firelight accounted for roughly 21% of all staked FXRP. Today, the figure has increased to 155.7 million XRP, with Firelight taking up a 32% share.

Software Engineer Shares Why XRP Price Could Hit $500+ by 2035, Cites LLM Study

Abdulkarim Abdulwahab
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Software Engineer Shares Why XRP Price Could Hit $500+ by 2035, Cites LLM Study

A software engineer in the XRP community has outlined a scenario in which XRP could climb above $500 by 2035 under highly optimistic assumptions.

The analysis comes as the crypto market gradually turns bullish again, with projections suggesting a new all-time high in 2026. Notably, XRP is trading at $1.41 at press time, after briefly touching $1.50 days ago.

Key Points

  • Software engineer says XRP could reach $500+ by 2035 under optimistic LLM-based scenario assumptions.
  • Study uses AI models to project XRP growth from regulation, adoption, and global payment infrastructure expansion.
  • Model forecasts gradual rise: $6–$10 in 2026, up to $400–$650+ by 2035 with institutional integration.
  • Community split: some see potential, others cite $30T market cap barrier and call projections unrealistic.

AI Model Pointing to Long-Term Upside

In a post on X, developer Vincent Van Code explained that the triple-digit XRP price projection is not a personal call. Instead, it was the outcome of a deep large language model (LLM) study.

According to him, the analysis emerged from iterative inputs and multiple variables, with tools like Grok helping simulate long-term ecosystem growth.

The model incorporates a wide range of factors, including regulatory developments, infrastructure expansion, and adoption trends across fintech and global payments.

Van Code stressed that the projections assume “things go to plan,” rather than guaranteed outcomes.

Key Assumptions Behind the $500 XRP Scenario

The study highlights several major drivers that could support XRP’s rise over the next decade. These include favorable U.S. crypto regulation, particularly the passage of the CLARITY Act, as well as Ripple’s continued expansion in global payments and liquidity solutions.

Other assumptions include:

  • Successful rollout of quantum-resistant upgrades to the XRP Ledger by around 2028
  • Growth in AI-based financial systems and micropayments
  • Increasing adoption by neobanks and non-bank DeFi platforms
  • Rising use of XRP as a neutral bridge asset in cross-border transactions

Van Code also said the analysis reinforced his view of Ripple’s long-term plan as a complex system aimed at reshaping global financial infrastructure.

Gradual Growth Modeled Over a Decade

Meanwhile, the study lays out a step-by-step growth trajectory for XRP. It starts with a projected range of $6 to $10 in 2026, supported by early regulatory clarity and institutional usage.

By the late 2020s, the model suggests XRP could benefit from deeper liquidity pools, automated market maker (AMM) expansion, and increasing integration with traditional systems like SWIFT. This phase could push prices toward $60 to $120 by 2029.

Entering the 2030s, the projection assumes XRP becomes part of global financial workflows, particularly in treasury operations, tokenized assets, and central bank digital currency (CBDC) interoperability.
Under these conditions, the price range could expand from $100–$200 in 2030 to as high as $400–$650+ by 2035.

At that stage, the analysis sees XRP as a core liquidity layer handling tens of trillions of dollars in annual on-chain volume, with reduced volatility due to deeper institutional participation.

Community Reaction Remains Mixed

The projection has drawn both interest and skepticism. Some market participants see the $500 range as plausible within the outlined framework. Meanwhile, critics point to market cap barriers in the outlook. For instance, a $500 price implies a market cap of over $30 trillion for XRP.

Meanwhile, veteran investor Pumpius described the $50 scenario as “more sensible” when considering the provided assumptions.

Van Code, however, was careful to distance himself from making definitive claims. He urged market participants to take the analysis cautiously and reiterated that it is not financial advice. Moreover, he asked readers to do their own research and avoid high-risk trading strategies.

Everstake Says Cardano Is a Healthy Network as TVL Hits Over-1-Year High

Elendu Benedict
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Everstake Says Cardano Is a Healthy Network as TVL Hits Over-1-Year High

Cardano has received an accolade from Everstake, a leading global non-custodial staking infrastructure provider in the crypto space.

Notably, Everstake has over $7 billion staked and generated over $700 million in revenue, underscoring its prominence. Recently, the firm noted that Cardano is showing signs of growth as its total value locked (TVL) reaches levels not seen in over a year.

Key Points

  • Cardano TVL has hit an over-one-year high, data from DefiLlama confirms.
  • On April 1, the network’s TVL hit 559.4 million ADA, surpassing the January 30, 2025, high of 545 million ADA.
  • Currently at 538.44 million ADA, the total value locked on Cardano reflects a 41.7% increase from the September 2025 lows of 380 million ADA.
  • Everstake views the growth as a sign that Cardano is “more active and healthier than ever.”
  • It added that this could be the beginning, suggesting Cardano would see further growth in TVL.

Cardano More Active 

Specifically, Everstake reacted to a tweet from Cardano-focused trading platform TapTools, highlighting the recent expansion of DeFi activities on the network. The platform highlighted that the Cardano TVL has hit an over-one-year high.

Notably, data from DeFiLlama confirmed this. It shows that Cardano TVL has grown steadily from lows of around 380 million ADA in September 2025 to its current level. On April 1, the network’s TVL hit 559.4 million ADA, surpassing the January 30, 2025 high of 545 million ADA. The last time such a level of DeFi activity was seen on the ADA ecosystem was in December 2024.

Cardano DeFi TVL/DeFiLlama
Cardano DeFi TVL/DeFiLlama

Currently at 538.44 million ADA, the total value locked on Cardano still stands at an over-one-year high. From the September 2025 lows, the current value represents a 41.7% growth, reflecting increased usage of Cardano’s decentralized finance tools.

Nonetheless, the valuation in dollar terms has continued to drop. Currently at $133.8 million, it stands well below December 2024 highs of $693.3 million. Notably, this is a product of the steady decline in the asset’s price. In December 2024, Cardano was trading at above $1, with the current price of $0.246 representing an over 75% drop.

Signs of a Health Network: Everstake

Everstake views the growth ADA tokens locked on the platform as a sign that Cardano is “more active and healthier than ever.” Higher TVL indicates greater DeFi activity, suggesting that users find Cardano useful. This is a sign of a healthy blockchain.

Notably, Cardano enthusiasts have long clamored for this. DeFi on the network has remained stunted for a while, underperforming relative to comparable blockchains such as Ethereum and Solana. It even lags behind newer and smaller chains like SUI.

However, efforts from founder Charles Hoskinson, the Cardano Foundation, and other relevant authorities seem to be paying off. Recall that the Foundation committed an eight-figure ADA to boost stablecoin liquidity and, consequently, DeFi activities. The ecosystem also recently landed a collaboration with Circle, integrating its USDCx stablecoin to the chain.

Everstake expressed excitement in finally seeing the “steady, organic growth” that proponents have angled for coming to fruition. It added that this could be the beginning, suggesting Cardano would see further growth in TVL. 

Interestingly, Hoskinson shares a similar projection. Earlier, he noted that unlocking Bitcoin and XRP DeFi and the Midnight launch will significantly impact Cardano TVL, potentially taking it to $15 billion.

Market Updates: Crypto Sentiment Hits 3-Month High Amid Bitcoin Rally, GSR Launches Multi-Asset Crypto ETF, Blockchain Capital Eyes $700M Funding Round

Zabi
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Market Updates: Crypto Sentiment Hits 3-Month High Amid Bitcoin Rally, GSR Launches Multi-Asset Crypto ETF, Blockchain Capital Eyes $700M Funding Round

Latest Market Updates: As of 23rd April 2026.

The cryptocurrency market showed renewed strength on April 23, 2026, supported by improving sentiment and a sharp upward move in Bitcoin.

Market Sentiment Hits Three-Month Peak as Bitcoin Rallies

Investor sentiment across crypto markets improved sharply on Wednesday, with the Alternative.me Crypto Fear & Greed Index rising 14 points to 46 out of 100 — its highest level since January 18.

Fear & Greed Index at 46
Fear & Greed Index at 46

Despite the gain, the index remains in the “Fear” zone. However, the move marks a significant recovery from February 23, when sentiment collapsed to an all-time low of 5.

That earlier downturn followed a major policy shift from the Trump administration, when a 15% global tariff triggered widespread market selling. Bitcoin subsequently fell toward $60,000 amid the broader risk-off environment.

Since mid-January, sentiment has remained largely subdued, even as institutional participation has increased and regulatory conditions in Washington have grown more supportive. However, the latest rebound suggests confidence may be gradually returning to the market.

Bitcoin’s price action reinforced this shift in tone. On Wednesday, the asset surged 5.9% within a 20-hour window, briefly touching nearly $79,400 before easing back to $77,920, according to CoinGecko data.

The move closely tracked the improvement in sentiment, underscoring the link between price momentum and investor psychology.

GSR Debuts Multi-Asset Crypto ETF

In a separate development, institutional crypto trading platform GSR has introduced its first exchange-traded fund.

The product, named the GSR Crypto Core3 ETF (BESO), provides exposure to Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana. In addition, it incorporates staking rewards and uses a dynamic allocation strategy to adjust holdings over time. The fund carries a 1% management fee.

Early trading activity showed strong demand. Nasdaq data recorded approximately 185,574 shares traded on launch day, generating about $4.8 million in volume. The ETF closed at $26.04 on Wednesday before rising to $33 in after-hours trading.

Blockchain Capital Targets $700M for New Investment Funds

Meanwhile, crypto-focused venture capital firm Blockchain Capital is seeking to raise $700 million for new crypto investments. According to Bloomberg, the firm will split the capital into two funds: one focused on early-stage experimental projects and another targeting more established companies with proven traction.

The fundraising process will conclude within six months. Even so, the firm has already begun deploying part of the capital.

Meanwhile, this move builds on its earlier success. Blockchain Capital previously raised $1 billion for crypto investments and now manages over $2 billion in assets. Its portfolio includes major industry names such as Coinbase and Kraken, as well as stablecoin issuers Tether and Circle.

Shariah-Compliant PUSD Stablecoin Expands to ADI Chain

In the stablecoin sector, the Shariah-compliant PUSD token is expanding to a new blockchain network. Specifically, the ADI Foundation announced that PUSD will be deployed on ADI Chain, a Layer 2 network focused on institutional settlement in the Middle East. 

PUSD currently has a circulating supply of approximately $2.3 billion and is fully backed by reserves held in UAE dirhams and Saudi riyals, each of which is pegged to the US dollar.

PUSD is already supported across Ethereum, Solana, BNB Chain, and Tron. With this latest expansion, its reach and interoperability across major ecosystems improve.

Strategically, the expansion positions PUSD to tap into the global Islamic finance market, which exceeds $3 trillion in assets.

ADI Chain serves as a settlement layer for a dirham-backed digital currency initiative involving International Holding Company and First Abu Dhabi Bank, under approval from the UAE Central Bank.

PUSD is issued by Palm Azgar Finance and is designed for institutional use. Its applications include corporate treasury management, exchange operations, and payment processing.

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