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‘Ripple Replaces SWIFT’ Era Was a Great Entry Point, but It’s Time for XRP Thesis Upgrade: EasyA Founder

Abdulkarim Abdulwahab
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‘Ripple Replaces SWIFT’ Era Was a Great Entry Point, but It’s Time for XRP Thesis Upgrade: EasyA Founder

The long-standing narrative that Ripple could replace SWIFT may have helped early adoption, but according to Dom Kwok, the market is now moving beyond that idea.

Speaking on The Rollup Podcast, the EasyA co-founder argued that focusing solely on SWIFT as a benchmark is no longer enough to understand where XRP and the ecosystem are heading.

Key Points

  • Dom Kwok says XRP’s growth is moving beyond the SWIFT replacement narrative to new use cases.
  • He argues XRPL’s strength lies in enabling broad financial apps, not just improving cross-border payments.
  • Institutional adoption and RLUSD growth are driving real-world use and boosting ecosystem activity.
  • Kwok believes XRP’s future is bringing global finance on-chain, not competing with SWIFT alone.

Moving Beyond the SWIFT Narrative

Kwok explained that while SWIFT once served as a useful reference point, it is no longer the “limiting factor” for growth. Instead, the focus has shifted toward more ambitious use cases.

According to him, the XRP Ledger is gaining traction not because it replaces a single system, but because it enables a wide range of financial applications that go far beyond traditional payment rails.

A key part of this “thesis upgrade” is the growing emphasis on institutional use cases. Kwok pointed out that XRPL stands out in its ability to attract real financial applications and enterprise-level adoption.

Hidden Road and GTreasury are examples of traditional finance firms that have been brought into the ecosystem through acquisitions.

The strategy is to acquire and integrate companies with existing customer bases, then gradually move their operations onto blockchain infrastructure. Even shifting a small portion of these transactions on-chain could unlock massive activity levels.

RLUSD and Developer Growth Fuel Momentum

Beyond institutional deals, Kwok pointed to the rise of RLUSD as another major driver of ecosystem growth. He described the stablecoin as one of the more successful recent launches, helping to expand real-world use cases on XRPL.

At the same time, developer activity is increasing. Through hackathons and educational initiatives across cities like Hong Kong and Singapore, more builders are entering the ecosystem and securing funding for XRPL-based projects.

This combination of developer momentum and financial infrastructure is helping to renew investor interest in XRP.

Kwok’s core argument is that the future of XRP is not about replacing SWIFT, but about something much larger, which is bringing the entire financial world onto blockchain rails.

He emphasized that the industry is heading toward a multi-chain future, where different blockchains serve different roles. However, he remains particularly bullish on XRP and Ripple due to their growing footprint in traditional finance.

XRP Doesn’t Need SWIFT

Earlier this month, XRP Ledger validator Vet argued that XRP does not need collaboration with SWIFT to function. He noted that blockchain systems replace legacy rails by combining messaging and settlement into a single process.

Unlike SWIFT, which only handles communication while funds move separately, XRP enables both instantly within a single transaction.

Ripple executive Eric van Miltenburg reinforced the stance, saying the company aims to replace, not partner with, SWIFT.

In sum, the original “SWIFT replacement” narrative may have opened the door. But the next phase is about scaling real-world financial systems on-chain.

Market Updates: XRP Seen Far Less Quantum-Risky than Bitcoin, Hong Kong Grants First Stablecoin Licenses, ETH Staking Hits ATH

Zabi
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Market Updates: XRP Seen Far Less Quantum-Risky than Bitcoin, Hong Kong Grants First Stablecoin Licenses, ETH Staking Hits ATH

Latest Market Updates: As of 10th April 2026.

XRP Seen as Less Vulnerable to Quantum Risks

Recent analysis suggests that XRP may be significantly less exposed to future quantum computing threats than Bitcoin. Specifically, experts estimate that only 0.03% of XRP’s total supply is currently at risk, compared to roughly 35% of Bitcoin’s supply.

This disparity stems largely from how each network handles public key exposure. In particular, analysts note that XRP minimizes exposure more effectively, which could translate into stronger long-term security.

Additionally, XRP incorporates built-in safeguards such as key rotation systems and escrow time-lock mechanisms. Together, these features enhance its resilience against advanced threats. In contrast, Bitcoin does not provide these protections natively.

Hong Kong Issues First Stablecoin Licenses

Meanwhile, in Hong Kong, authorities have taken a significant step toward formalizing the stablecoin market.

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has granted stablecoin issuer licenses to Standard Chartered and HSBC under the newly implemented Stablecoins Ordinance, with approvals taking immediate effect.

Both institutions are expected to roll out stablecoins in the second half of 2026, targeting use cases such as cross-border payments, domestic transactions, and digital asset trading.

HKMA Chief Executive Eddie Yue described the move as a key milestone, emphasizing the importance of balancing innovation with user protection and risk management. Deputy Chief Executive Daryl Ho added that future licenses will be issued cautiously and in limited numbers.

Ethereum Staking Reaches Record Highs

As regulatory clarity improves in some regions, institutional participation in crypto markets continues to accelerate, particularly within the Ethereum ecosystem.

Data from Onchain Lens shows that Grayscale’s Ethereum Mini Trust recently staked 83,200 ETH, valued at around $184 million. Notably, this move builds on the firm’s growing presence in Ethereum-based investment products.

Grayscale’s Ethereum ETFs are also reportedly leading in staking rewards, having generated nearly $8 million in yield so far. This sustained activity has contributed to a broader network trend.

Consequently, Ethereum staking has reached an all-time high. Data from Token Terminal shows that around $85 billion worth of ETH is now locked, highlighting both increased network security and growing adoption.

Japan Reclassifies Crypto as Financial Instruments

At the same time, Japan has redefined its classification of crypto assets.

Under amendments to the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act, crypto assets are now officially categorized as financial instruments, according to Nikkei. This shift brings stricter oversight and aligns digital assets more closely with traditional financial markets.

The updated rules introduce new restrictions, including a ban on insider trading based on undisclosed information. In addition, crypto issuers will also be required to provide annual disclosures to enhance transparency.

Previously, digital assets were regulated under the Payment and Settlement Act. However, the new classification reflects increasing institutional investment and ultimately signals Japan’s intent to integrate crypto into its broader financial system.

Binance Relocates UAE Staff to Asia Amid US-Iran War

Finally, geopolitical developments are also beginning to impact crypto operations, particularly in the Middle East.

Amid the ongoing US-Iran conflict, Binance is reportedly relocating staff from the UAE to key Asian hubs, including Hong Kong, Tokyo, Kuala Lumpur, and Bangkok, according to Wu Blockchain.

The UAE has been a major operational base for Binance, hosting over 1,000 employees and serving as a strategic hub following the exchange’s global licensing in Abu Dhabi in 2026.

Nevertheless, recent missile and drone incidents in Dubai have raised security concerns. Consequently, several crypto firms are reducing their presence in the area. Additionally, the 2049 Summit, originally scheduled in Dubai, has also been postponed by one year.

XRP Price if the XRP Market Cap Hits $1 Trillion

Mark Brennan
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XRP Price if the XRP Market Cap Hits $1 Trillion

The XRP price could skyrocket to a double-digit range if XRP’s market cap crossed the $1 trillion milestone.

While XRP continues to navigate the ongoing market-wide turbulence, down more than 27% this year, market watchers believe an imminent recovery push could take prices to new heights.

In previous reports, some market commentators have even predicted a possible run to a $1 trillion market cap for XRP. Considering the current circulating supply, the XRP price would soar to $16 if the crypto asset ever reached that milestone.

Key Points

  • Despite XRP recording a 27% crash this year, analysts maintain a long-term bullish outlook.
  • Previous market expositions have projected a possible XRP rally to a $1 trillion market cap.
  • This would make XRP the second crypto asset to hit the $1 trillion market cap milestone, only behind Bitcoin.
  • With the current circulating supply of 61.4 billion tokens, the XRP price would soar to $16 at a $1 trillion market cap.

Long-Term Optimism Amid Current XRP Price Struggles 

Notably, after an 11.58% decline last year, 2025, XRP began this year on a positive note, soaring to $2.41 in early January. However, this relief bounce soon met resistance, leading to a pullback. XRP has since continued to decline, recording lower highs, having collapsed 27.42% this year.

Despite the ongoing downturn, most market commentators insist that XRP still has a bullish long-term outlook. While some, like Chart Nerd and Casi, believe the asset could record steeper declines below $1 before finding its bottom, they suggest that a recovery from the bottom could lead to higher prices, like the $21 mark. 

XRP Price if It Hits The $1 Trillion Market Cap Milestone

The current bullish outlook builds on earlier sentiments held by market analysts regarding XRP’s future. One such analyst is EGRAG Crypto, who suggested in February 2025 that XRP has the potential to reach the $1 trillion market cap level, citing historical data. According to EGRAG, this run is “super doable.”

At press time, XRP boasts a market valuation of $82.2 billion, making it the fourth-largest crypto asset in the market (including stablecoins). XRP still sits miles below Tether (USDT), which holds a valuation of $184.1 billion. With a circulating supply of 61.4 billion, the XRP price would need to breach $3 to overtake USDT again.

XRP Currently Fourth Largest Asset CMC
XRP Currently Fourth Largest Asset | CMC

Notably, this higher circulating supply, which has increased by 3.13 billion tokens over the past year alone, would mean lower prices for XRP at the ambitious $1 trillion market cap. Considering 61.4 billion tokens in circulation, the XRP price would sit at exactly $16.28 if XRP hits a $1 trillion valuation. This would represent a 1,114% increase from current prices. 

How Feasible is a $1 Trillion Market Cap?

However, reaching a $1 trillion valuation would represent no small feat for XRP. At press time, Bitcoin (BTC) is the only crypto asset that has crossed this milestone. Specifically, BTC first claimed the $1 trillion valuation mark in February 2021, when prices hit a new ATH of $58,000 at the time. This was 12 years after its launch.

The closest any other crypto asset has gotten to reaching the $1 trillion market cap was when Ethereum (ETH) hit its all-time high valuation of $598 billion in August 2025. At the time, ETH needed a mere 67% increase to claim $1 trillion.

Meanwhile, XRP’s ATH valuation was $216.69 billion, attained when its price rose to $3.6 in July 2025. From this top, XRP needed an additional 361% increase to reach $1 trillion. The XRP market cap has continued to slide since the $216 billion high, entering a falling channel pattern on the 1-month chart. At the current valuation, XRP needs a 1,114% rise to reach a $1 trillion market cap.

XRP Market Cap
XRP Market Cap

Market Updates: RAVE Surges 232% Amid Insider Sell-off Fears; Morgan Stanley’s BTC ETF Stuns on Debut; Metalpha Moves $15.7M ETH to Binance

Zabi
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Market Updates: RAVE Surges 232% Amid Insider Sell-off Fears; Morgan Stanley’s BTC ETF Stuns on Debut; Metalpha Moves $15.7M ETH to Binance

Latest Market Updates: As of 10th April 2026.

RaveDAO Rally Triggers Insider Trading Concerns

RaveDAO (RAVE) led today’s market action with one of the most dramatic surges, soaring 232% within 24 hours to reach a peak of $1.17. The sharp rally quickly drew widespread attention, but also raised red flags.

Crypto analyst Sumit Kapoor pointed to suspicious trading patterns in a post on X. In particular, he noted that two wallets linked to the token’s deployment address transferred 18.58 million tokens to Bitget just as the price began to spike.

According to Kapoor, the move effectively turned an $8 million position into roughly $19 million. He suggested this could indicate insider positioning ahead of a sell-off, urging traders to remain cautious as such patterns are often associated with coordinated exits.

Morgan Stanley’s Bitcoin ETF Sees Record Debut

Shifting to institutional developments, Morgan Stanley entered the crypto market spotlight with the launch of its spot Bitcoin ETF, trading under the ticker MSBT on NYSE Arca.

The fund posted an impressive first-day performance, recording approximately 1.6 million shares in trading volume and generating nearly $34 million. It also attracted $30.6 million in net inflows while acquiring 430 Bitcoin.

Speaking to Bloomberg, Amy Oldenburg, head of Digital Assets at Morgan Stanley, described the launch as the most successful ETF debut in the firm’s history. She added that Bitcoin-focused products are just the beginning of a broader digital asset strategy.

Further underscoring the strong start, Bloomberg ETF analyst Eric Balchunas noted that the fund ranks among the top 1% of ETF launches over the past year, well above the typical $1 million or less seen in first-day trading for most new ETFs.

Metalpha Wallet Moves $15.7M in ETH to Binance

Alongside institutional momentum, on-chain data highlighted significant activity in Ethereum markets. A wallet linked to Hong Kong-based digital asset firm Metalpha transferred 7,200 ETH, valued at approximately $15.79 million, to Binance.

The transaction, reported by Arkham Intelligence and Onchain Lens, may signal a shift in positioning. Notably, large deposits to centralized exchanges are often interpreted as preparation for liquidity events.

This comes as Ethereum continues to gain traction, rising 6% over the past week to trade at $2,189.

Coinbase CEO Backs U.S. Crypto Clarity Bill

On the regulatory front, Brian Armstrong publicly endorsed the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act, signaling a notable shift in stance.

The Coinbase CEO shared his support on X, urging lawmakers to advance the legislation. Earlier in 2026, the company had opposed certain provisions, particularly those related to stablecoins yield restrictions.

The proposed bill seeks to clearly define how regulatory oversight is divided between the SEC and the CFTC.

WLFI Moves to Reassure Investors on Lending Strategy

Rounding out today’s developments, Trump-backed World Liberty Financial (WLFI) addressed concerns about its lending operations, aiming to reassure market participants.

The firm explained that it operates as both a supplier and borrower on its platform, using native tokens as collateral to secure stablecoin loans and maintain liquidity. It emphasized that there is currently no risk of liquidation and noted that additional collateral could be deployed if necessary.

WLFI also reported that its USD1 product generates approximately $159.5 million in annualized income. To further strengthen confidence, the firm announced plans to repurchase over $65 million in tokens. Additionally, it is preparing a governance proposal to unlock tokens held by early users, aiming to improve liquidity and support long-term growth.

XRP Target After Quietly Delivering a Major Breakout

Elendu Benedict
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XRP Target After Quietly Delivering a Major Breakout

A long-term XRP chart pattern is drawing renewed attention, with a breakout from a multi-year consolidation structure sparking optimism.

Notably, XRP is currently testing a key breakout level that could shape the next phase. As such, a successful retest event would ignite an explosive move, potentially pushing prices to unprecedented levels.

Key Points

  • XRP has just secretly handed enthusiasts the “breakout of the decade” after moving above a long-term symmetrical triangle.
  • The triangle has been forming since the January 2018 peak near $3.35 before XRP broke out in November 2024.
  • Notably, the current setup shows XRP retesting the breakout.
  • The next step after a successful retest is a sustained price expansion, potentially targeting $21.

XRP Breakout from Long-Term Structure

ChartNerd, a widely followed technical analyst, identified this trend in a recent X post. In the analysis, he claimed that XRP has just secretly handed enthusiasts the “breakout of the decade,” citing the asset’s move above a long-term structure.

The accompanying chart shows a large symmetrical triangle that formed over several years before XRP broke out in late 2024. The triangle started taking shape after XRP dropped from the January 2018 peak near $3.35, forming lower highs and higher lows until November 2024, when the Donald Trump-inspired rally forced a breakout.

XRP Symmetrical Triangle Breakout/ChartNerd
XRP Symmetrical Triangle Breakout/ChartNerd

A strong rally followed this move, eventually peaking at the all-time high of $3.66 in July 2025. Since then, XRP has entered a pullback phase, with price now hovering near the upper region of the former triangle.

Breakout Structure Now Faces Critical Retest

The current setup shows XRP retesting the breakout zone. This area previously acted as a resistance before the breakout, and how the altcoin handles this phase is critical.

Moreover, the structure resembles earlier formations seen in previous cycles. A smaller, symmetrical triangle formed between 2013 and 2017, with the XRP price compressing within it before breaking higher.

In that cycle, it retested the structure’s neckline, and a successful event confirmed the breakout. Consequently, a stronger upward move followed, pulling XRP to the January 2018 high of $3.35.

Currently, XRP is trading at $1.34, up 1.7% in the past seven days. According to the chart, the triangle’s neckline lies near $0.85. This suggests that prices could drop lower to meet this support, aligning with an outlook from CasiTrades. It bears mentioning that XRP does not need to fully touch the symmetrical triangle’s neckline to complete a retest.

XRP Target After Retest

ChartNerd noted that the sequence is clear: a compression within a triangle, followed by a breakout, a retest, and then a sustained move higher. This shows that the next step after a successful retest is a sustained price expansion.

If XRP finds support at the current level and begins to build momentum, it could target unprecedented prices as outlined in the chart. This could see the coin rally to $21, representing a 1,467% increase from the current market price.

Conversely, failure to hold the retest zone would weaken the setup and introduce the possibility of a deeper correction.

COO of XRP Treasury Firm Evernorth Says ‘If We Can Succeed in Japan, We Can Succeed in Other Markets’

Abdulkarim Abdulwahab
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COO of XRP Treasury Firm Evernorth Says ‘If We Can Succeed in Japan, We Can Succeed in Other Markets’

The push to bring institutional capital into the XRP ecosystem is gaining momentum.

XRP treasury firm Evernorth is positioning itself at the center of that shift. Speaking at XRP Tokyo 2026, the firm’s COO, Megumi Nakamura, outlined how treasury companies could reshape the way large investors interact with XRP.

Key Points

  • Evernorth aims to drive institutional capital into XRP through active treasury strategies, not passive holding.
  • COO Megumi Nakamura says Japan will serve as a key test market for global XRP adoption expansion.
  • Backed by major investors, the firm focuses on lending, liquidity, and yield generation for institutions.
  • Nakamura believes success in Japan could prove the model and unlock broader global market opportunities.

Bringing Institutional Investor Money to XRP

At the XRP Tokyo 2026 conference, Evernorth presented its vision as more than just a holder of digital assets. Founded in 2025 by former Ripple executives, the U.S.-based firm focuses on XRP lending, liquidity provision, and active capital management.

It is backed by major players including Ripple, Pantera Capital, and SBI Holdings, which invested around $200 million. The company is preparing for a Nasdaq listing while aiming to build one of the largest XRP treasuries globally.

Nakamura explained that Evernorth differs from traditional investment vehicles like ETFs. Rather than passively holding XRP, the firm actively deploys capital through lending, liquidity services, and options strategies to generate yield for institutional clients.

Acting as “Capital” for the XRP Ecosystem

Evernorth’s strategy is built on the idea that blockchain adoption requires three key elements: technology, regulation, and capital. While blockchain technology has matured, Nakamura noted that regulatory clarity and institutional participation have historically lagged.

Meanwhile, that dynamic is now changing. With clearer regulations emerging across multiple jurisdictions, Evernorth sees an opportunity to act as a bridge between traditional finance and decentralized finance, bringing institutional money into XRP markets.

According to Nakamura, XRP stands out because it was designed specifically for financial systems and payments. This gives it a different foundation compared to assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum. This positioning has driven Evernorth’s decision to center its treasury strategy around XRP.

Japan as a Launchpad for Global Expansion

Japan plays a key role in Evernorth’s expansion plans. Nakamura described the country as a highly mature capital market and a critical testing ground for institutional adoption.

He emphasized that success in Japan could serve as a blueprint for other regions, stating that if the model works there, it can be replicated globally.

“If we can succeed in Japan, we can succeed in other markets as well,” Nakamura remarked.

Partnerships with firms like SBI further strengthen this approach, with expansion into Asian markets such as South Korea already on the radar.

Despite the optimism, Nakamura acknowledged that volatility remains a challenge across the crypto sector. However, he pointed out that increasing real-world use cases and demand-driven adoption could improve the long-term sustainability of XRP.

Kwok Brothers Share Bold Timeline for $1,000 XRP, Say Target Possible Within 5 Years

Abdulkarim Abdulwahab
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Kwok Brothers Share Bold Timeline for $1,000 XRP, Say Target Possible Within 5 Years

Dom and Phill Kwok, co-founders of EasyA, have outlined an aggressive five-year timeline for XRP price to reach $1,000.

The four-digit price projection came during their appearance on the Rollup podcast. The duo expressed strong confidence in XRP’s upside potential and pushed back against skepticism over whether the token can even surpass $10.

Key Points

  • Kwok brothers say XRP could reach $1,000 within 4–5 years, showing strong confidence in its long-term growth potential.
  • They argue XRP can easily surpass $10 and believe a much bigger rally is “definitely” achievable.
  • Critics point to a $50T–$100T market cap, but they say crypto doesn’t follow traditional valuation rules.
  • The bold call remains controversial, with some analysts expecting a longer timeline for XRP growth.

Even $1,000 XRP is “Definitely” Achievable

According to the Kwok brothers, not only is a move beyond $10 likely, but a far more ambitious rally to $1,000 is also “definitely” achievable. They asserted that this price outlook could materialize within four to five years.

At the time of the discussion, XRP was trading around $1.35, implying a potential upside of roughly 740x if the $1,000 target were to materialize.

XRP Market Cap Debate Resurfaces

Meanwhile, the bold prediction raised questions about valuation. The host pointed out that a $1,000 XRP price would translate into a market capitalization in the range of $50 trillion to $100 trillion. This far exceeds the current size of Bitcoin and rivals major global financial systems.

However, the Kwok brothers dismissed strict reliance on traditional valuation models.  Drawing comparisons to Bitcoin, they noted that its valuation has already surpassed many of the world’s largest companies despite lacking conventional fundamentals.

“No Real Ceiling” in Crypto

The Kwok brothers have repeatedly called for a $1,000 price target, including sharing this outlook at the New York Stock Exchange in July 2025. They believe the coming years hold significant promise for crypto assets, particularly XRP.

Interestingly, earlier this month, Dom urged investors to focus on crypto over traditional jobs, saying, “lock in now or clock in forever.”

His message encouraged early commitment to crypto for long-term wealth instead of the typical 9–5 path. Community members said they are “locked in,” aiming for financial independence, while others said they plan to keep working but on their own terms.

High-Stakes Bet on 2030

Notably, the podcast discussion ended on a lighter note. The hosts and guests joked about revisiting the prediction around 2030 and potentially placing a bet tied to XRP’s future price performance.

Ultimately, the $1,000 target remains highly controversial. While the Kwok brothers give a four- to five-year outlook, other industry analysts suggest a ten-year timeline.

At the moment, XRP’s path toward even double-digit prices remains the immediate focus, as the coin continues to trade below $1.50.

Market Updates: Tom Lee Says Bitcoin Bottom is IN, BitMine Completes NYSE Switch, Solo Miner Wins $222K, Toncoin Whales Keep Buying the Dip

Zabi
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Market Updates: Tom Lee Says Bitcoin Bottom is IN, BitMine Completes NYSE Switch, Solo Miner Wins $222K, Toncoin Whales Keep Buying the Dip

Latest Market Updates: As of 10th April 2026.

Tom Lee: The Bottom is In, Bullish on ETH and BTC

In an interview with CNBC, Fundstrat co-founder Tom Lee suggested that broader markets may already have formed a bottom, pointing to recent price action as evidence of stabilization.

He argued that a prolonged phase of sector rotation has effectively redistributed capital across equities, producing what he described as a “rolling correction” rather than a single sharp downturn. According to this view, the gradual adjustment has reduced immediate downside pressure and could support a renewed upward trend across multiple asset classes.

Moreover, Lee expressed continued bullishness on risk assets, particularly Bitcoin and Ethereum, alongside selective strength in large-cap technology, software, and energy sectors.

However, he cautioned that inflation remains a key risk factor. Any renewed acceleration in price pressures, he warned, could interrupt or delay the recovery narrative.

BitMine Shifts to NYSE, Expands $4B Buyback Plan

In equities news, BitMine Immersion Technologies confirmed its transition from Nasdaq to the New York Stock Exchange. The move is part of a broader effort to scale institutional visibility and liquidity.

Alongside the listing change, the company significantly expanded its share repurchase program, increasing authorization to $4 billion from $1 billion. According to data cited by Fundstrat, this places it among the largest buyback programs announced in 2026.

In parallel, the firm also disclosed continued accumulation of Ethereum, reporting holdings of approximately 4.8 million ETH over the past nine months, around 4% of total supply, bringing it close to its stated 5% target.

Solo Bitcoin Miner Beats Massive Odds to Win $222K

Meanwhile, in a rare event, a solo Bitcoin miner secured a full block reward despite limited computing power.

According to mempool data, the miner processed block 944,306 using approximately 70 TH/s of hash power, earning a total reward of 3.128 BTC, worth roughly $222,000 at the time. The payout consisted primarily of the block subsidy, with a small portion from transaction fees.

Notably, the operation was conducted via CKPool’s European server, with developer Con Kolivas confirming the event.

In a post on X, Kolivas emphasized the extreme improbability of such an event. Specifically, he estimates that a miner of this size would statistically expect a successful block only once every ~300 years. At the time, the Bitcoin network’s total hashrate was approximately 1.02 zettahashes per second, underscoring the rarity of the outcome.

Binance Founder Highlights the Strategic Importance of Blockchain and AI

On another front, in a conversation with Scott Melker, Binance founder Changpeng Zhao emphasized the strategic importance of emerging technologies.

In particular, he identified the internet, blockchain, and artificial intelligence as the most influential sectors of recent decades. According to Zhao, countries that fail to embrace any of these areas risk falling behind in global competition.

Turning to the United States, Zhao suggested that earlier policy decisions may have pushed parts of the crypto industry elsewhere. However, he pointed to a recent pardon by Donald Trump as a possible sign of policy change. 

Zhao added that while the U.S. leads in regulation, it has lost some liquidity and market participants, though it retains the ability to adapt.

Toncoin Whales Accumulate Despite Market Decline

In parallel with these developments, on-chain data from Santiment indicate steady accumulation in Toncoin, with large holders adding approximately 189,730 TON over the past three months.

Interestingly, this accumulation occurred amid a broader drawdown, with TON declining roughly 60% over the past year.

At the time of reporting, Toncoin traded near $1.26, with a market capitalization of approximately $3.11 billion, according to CoinMarketCap, placing it among the top 30 crypto assets globally.

TON Whales Accumulation
TON Whales Accumulation

XRP Ichimoku Cloud Flattening After Recent Expansion

Sam Wisdom Raphael
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XRP Ichimoku Cloud Flattening After Recent Expansion

XRP Ichimoku Cloud is moving from expansion into a flatter shape, as the price loses momentum, leading to uncertainty over its next direction.

After a strong move between April 8 and 9, the cloud has weakened and now shows a more balanced structure. This change suggests that buying pressure has slowed and XRP is no longer trending strongly.

At this stage, the market is in a waiting phase. Notably, traders would continue watching for a clear move out of the cloud, which will likely set the next direction.

Key Points

  • After XRP’s recent surge, the Ichimoku Cloud has flattened, with the price now trading inside.
  • Momentum indicators show weakness as the Tenkan-sen flattens and the Kijun-sen acts as a magnet near $1.345.
  • The DMI confirms a lack of trend strength with ADX at 12.48 and near-equal +DI (18.40) and -DI (17.98).
  • Key levels include resistance at $1.355-$1.360 and $1.3696, while support holds at $1.335-$1.330 and $1.31.

XRP Ichimoku Cloud Shows Balanced Market After Upsurge

At press time, XRP changed hands at around $1.3426 after failing to hold above its recent high of $1.39 reached on April 7. The rejection in this area ended a strong upward move that began that same day and led to a pullback, with the price now trading in a lower range.

The Ichimoku Cloud confirms that the market lacks a clear direction. Specifically, XRP is trading inside the cloud, close to both the Tenkan-sen and Kijun-sen lines, which usually indicates indecision.

Earlier, between April 6 and April 8, the cloud started thin and then expanded, helping drive the breakout. Now, the cloud has flattened and shows mixed signals. For context, a flat cloud usually indicates a balance between buyers and sellers instead of an actual trend.

Other parts of the indicator also show weaker momentum. Notably, the Tenkan-sen has flattened, which means short-term momentum has slowed. The Kijun-sen is acting as a balance point around $1.345, with the price often returning to this level. The two lines are close together and do not show a strong bullish setup.

XRP Ichimoku Cloud
XRP Ichimoku Cloud

Further, the Chikou Span also does not confirm a strong trend, as it is moving through past price levels instead of staying clearly above them. This confirms the overall idea that the XRP market currently lacks a clear direction.

DMI Shows Weak Trend Strength

The Directional Movement Index (DMI) also indicates that the market remains weak. Specifically, the ADX sits around 12.48, which is well below the level that usually signals a strong trend. This confirms that XRP is currently moving sideways.

At the same time, the +DI is near 18.40, and the -DI is around 17.98, showing almost equal strength between buyers and sellers. This close range means neither side is in control.

During the April 8 to April 9 rally, the +DI was clearly higher, supporting the upward move. Now, the lines are coming together, which shows that momentum has faded and the market is settling into a range.

Key XRP Price Levels to Watch

Currently, XRP still holds a neutral structure with a slight positive bias as long as it stays above key support. Immediate support lies between $1.335 and $1.330, while a stronger base sits near $1.31. These levels are helping to prevent a larger drop.

On the upside, resistance stands between $1.355 and $1.360, which matches the top of the cloud. The $1.3696 level remains a key barrier after the recent rejection.

The market does not yet show a clear upward trend because the price remains inside the cloud, momentum indicators are weak, and the ADX is low. At the same time, it does not show a clear downward trend because support is holding, the future cloud is still slightly green, and the -DI has not clearly moved above the +DI.

What Next for XRP?

XRP is now in a low-momentum phase after its recent rally. Both the Ichimoku Cloud and DMI suggest that the current situation is a pause, not a full reversal. The market is waiting for a stronger move to set direction.

For a bullish move, the price would need to rise above $1.355, break out of the cloud, and show stronger signals such as a clear Tenkan-sen and Kijun-sen crossover, a rising ADX above 20, and a wider gap between +DI and -DI.

For a bearish move, price would likely need to fall below $1.33, move fully below the cloud, and show stronger selling pressure with the -DI moving clearly above the +DI and trend strength increasing.

Hoskinson Tells XRP Critic: You Don’t Have to Like Me to Use Cardano

Lele Jima
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Hoskinson Tells XRP Critic: You Don’t Have to Like Me to Use Cardano

Cardano founder Charles Hoskinson responded to new criticism from an XRP supporter, saying Cardano’s growth doesn’t depend on people liking him.

The debate emerged shortly after Hoskinson posted a satirical video mocking persistent online trolls. Although the clip aimed to ridicule critics, it quickly sparked a broader discussion about his public persona and its potential influence on Cardano’s adoption.

Key Points

  • Charles Hoskinson recently addressed fresh criticism from an XRP supporter over his influence on Cardano’s adoption. 
  • He emphasized that organizations do not need to like or agree with him personally to adopt the Cardano network. 
  • The latest exchange reflects a long-standing tension between Hoskinson and segments of the XRP community, which intensified during the Ripple lawsuit. 
  • Even though the previous feud was resolved, disagreements between Hoskinson and some XRP supporters continue to resurface. 

People Don’t Have to Like Me to Use Cardano: Hoskinson 

Reacting to the video, an XRP supporter argued that organizations might hesitate to partner with Cardano because of Hoskinson’s active social media presence, which often includes direct responses to trolls. 

The user suggested that Cardano’s challenges stem less from its technology and more from its founder’s reputation, even comparing him unfavorably with Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse.

However, Charles Hoskinson dismissed the claim. Instead, he emphasized Cardano’s decentralized structure and suggested that critics in the XRP community often misunderstand the concept of decentralization. Notably, he clarified that Cardano operates as a fully decentralized network, independent of any single individual.

Furthermore, Hoskinson emphasized that organizations do not need to like, agree with, or endorse him to adopt Cardano. In his view, companies ultimately evaluate the blockchain based on its technology, infrastructure, and ecosystem rather than the personality of its creator. 

Garlinghouse and Hoskinson’s Approach to Online Trolls 

Indeed, Hoskinson and Garlinghouse maintain noticeably different public personas. As one of the crypto industry’s most outspoken figures, Hoskinson regularly hosts weekly update streams and frequently engages with critics on social media, regardless of whether they are prominent figures or retail users.

By contrast, Garlinghouse tends to maintain a more restrained online presence. While he often comments on developments related to Ripple and XRP, he typically responds to criticism only from influential voices. 

For example, Garlinghouse recently exchanged remarks with Avalanche CEO Emin Gün Sirer during a public disagreement.

As a result, some XRP supporters view Garlinghouse’s communication style as more professional. Nonetheless, Hoskinson reiterated that Cardano’s decentralized nature means adoption does not hinge on personal opinions about him. 

XRP and Hoskinson Feud 

Meanwhile, the exchange also reflects a long-running tension between Hoskinson and segments of the XRP community. The conflict intensified during the legal battle between Ripple and the U.S. SEC.

At the time, Hoskinson’s comments about the lawsuit, particularly his use of the phrase “conspiracy theory,” sparked backlash from many XRP supporters. Some interpreted his remarks as labeling XRP holders themselves as conspiracy theorists. 

However, he later clarified that he used the term to describe claims that Ethereum officials had paid the SEC to target Ripple and XRP. The dispute persisted for more than a year before Hoskinson eventually apologized and attempted to ease tensions. 

He later included XRP holders among the beneficiaries of the Midnight airdrop initiative and proposed developing XRP-based decentralized finance opportunities to provide higher yields.

Despite these efforts, disagreements between Charles Hoskinson and some XRP supporters continue to resurface, leaving broader crypto observers questioning when the tensions will finally subside. 

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