Tether Could Lose Its #3 Crypto Spot to XRP

There’s a storm brewing in the crypto markets, but where you least expect it! 

While the spotlight often shines on Bitcoin and Ethereum, XRP is quietly positioning itself for a headline-worthy move. With its market cap now at $133 billion – just shy of Tether’s $148 billion – XRP could soon reclaim a spot among the top three cryptocurrencies. 

But unlike USDT, whose growth hinges on increased issuance, XRP’s rise is being fueled by real price appreciation. There’s something different about its current setup, and if you’ve been watching closely, the signs are hard to ignore.

Let’s dig deeper. 

XRP vs Tether: Same Numbers, Very Different Stories

Here’s what makes this potential flip so interesting – USDT is a stablecoin, pegged to the US dollar. Its value doesn’t change, and its market cap grows only when more tokens are issued. In short: it expands by minting.

XRP’s story? Completely different. It’s gaining ground the hard way – through price appreciation. In the last week alone, XRP jumped 8.82% while Bitcoin and Ethereum moved far less in comparison.

Dig a little deeper and the contrast becomes clearer. XRP’s trading volume is strong – over $3 billion – with a balanced buy/sell ratio (58% to 42%). USDT, meanwhile, is seeing more selling than buying, with 88% of its 24-hour trades leaning bearish. 

That kind of sentiment doesn’t exactly scream strength.

Technical Setup: Bulls Are Back in Control

For the first time in months, XRP is trading above its 50, 100, and 200-day EMAs; a sign of serious bullish momentum. And it’s happening right after XRP broke out of a long-standing descending channel, which had been capping its growth for ages.

Now, XRP is holding strong at $2.28, with key support near $2.22 thanks to the 100-day EMA. If it keeps up this pace, we could see it test the $2.50–$3.00 zone. 

That would be more than a price milestone but  would likely push it past Tether in market cap.

Why This Flip Actually Matters

So, let’s take a step back. XRP overtaking Tether is not just a numbers game but is actually very symbolic. After years of regulatory hurdles and market uncertainty, XRP is once again being recognized for its real-world utility – fast, cost-effective cross-border payments – and not just its legal drama with the SEC. 

With 58.44 billion tokens in circulation, it’s climbing through genuine demand, not supply tricks. That alone sets it apart in a market flooded with hype.

So while Bitcoin consolidates around $95K and Ethereum plays it safe near $1,835, XRP is moving up. And if the current market mood stays even slightly risk-on, that #3 spot might have a new owner very soon.