XRP's $8 Target by 2026: Standard Chartered Identifies Key Drivers
Standard Chartered remains highly bullish on XRP's future, projecting the cryptocurrency to reach a significant $8 valuation by 2026. This optimistic outlook, despite a mixed performance in 2025, is primarily fueled by two major catalysts: the anticipated launch and adoption of spot XRP Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) and a newfound regulatory clarity following a pivotal legal resolution.
Spot ETFs to Fuel Demand
The bank's analysis suggests that the introduction of spot XRP ETFs could inject a substantial $4 billion to $8 billion into the cryptocurrency's market capitalization throughout 2026. Such significant inflows are expected to create a considerable demand shock, especially given XRP's relatively limited circulating supply of approximately 57 billion coins. This dynamic, coupled with current inflows into XRP ETFs already nearing $1.25 billion, could propel the price dramatically. Analyst Geoff Kendric further supports this trajectory, envisioning XRP hitting $8.00 by 2026 and potentially soaring to $12.50 by 2028, mirroring the initial enthusiasm and capital influx seen with Bitcoin ETFs.
Regulatory Clarity Paves the Way
A crucial factor underpinning this bullish forecast is the resolution of the protracted regulatory uncertainties surrounding XRP. The long-standing lawsuit between the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Ripple Labs, which had cast a shadow over XRP's market narrative, saw a significant turning point in August 2025. The SEC's withdrawal of its appeal and Ripple's agreement to a $125 million settlement confirmed that XRP sales on secondary markets are not classified as securities transactions. This landmark decision eliminates a substantial legal burden and is viewed by Standard Chartered as a powerful catalyst for wider institutional adoption, allowing previously sidelined capital to confidently enter the market. However, the realization of the $8 price target by 2026 is also contingent on favorable macroeconomic conditions, including low interest rates and a general "risk-on" sentiment among investors. Should the broader economic landscape face escalating challenges, investor appetite for altcoins like XRP may wane.
