XRP Price Ticks as Ripple CEO Wins Top Harvard Award
The price of XRP surged to $1.44 as positive momentum formed following the recognition of Ripple’s CEO, Brad Garlinghouse, who received a top leadership award from Harvard.
The token price increase was further supported by a significant 37.56% rise in trading volume, as XRP approached a critical technical resistance level.
This upward movement mirrors Bitcoin’s recent performance, driven by strong institutional investment in cryptocurrency ETFs, which have contributed to a bullish trend across the market.
Amid Middle East unrest, U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs reported net inflows exceeding $2 billion over nine consecutive days through April 24, signalling a renewed appetite for risk.
The boost provided essential momentum for XRP, which has been fluctuating after failing to break out, though crypto analysts maintained a positive outlook for the token, with a higher price target.
Boosting sentiment, Ripple’s RLUSD stablecoin integrated with Wanchain’s bridge infrastructure, enabling seamless two-way transfers between the XRP Ledger, Ethereum, and Cardano.
The integration reduces reliance on centralised exchanges for cross-chain transactions, thereby enhancing liquidity for trading and decentralised finance (DeFi).
At the same time, several major European banks, including ING and BNP Paribas, are planning to launch a euro-backed stablecoin utilising Ripple’s technology, targeted for release in late 2026, with a focus on regulated digital payments.
Meanwhile, the market anticipates that Garlinghouse’s recognition as Harvard Business School’s 2026 Business Leader of the Year will also positively influence XRP’s price.
The award acknowledges his leadership in navigating Ripple through a significant legal battle with the SEC, making strategic acquisitions such as Hidden Road, obtaining global licenses, and successfully launching XRP ETFs.
Analysts view this accolade as bullish for XRP, as it reinforces Ripple’s credibility and showcases the company’s institutional maturity.
The award highlights the transition from being a legal defendant to a recognised leader in both crypto and traditional finance, increasing confidence among partners and investors.
Trading volume rose 37.56% to $1.48 billion, indicating increased buyer interest. Technically, XRP is currently testing the 23.6% Fibonacci retracement level at $1.45, and a bullish MACD crossover suggests a positive short-term outlook.
The immediate catalyst for price movement will be the Federal Reserve’s FOMC decision on April 29. If XRP can maintain its position above $1.42, it may pave the way toward reaching $1.50.
Conversely, a decline below $1.39 could invalidate the bullish trend, potentially leading to a drop to the next support level near $1.35. Investors Gain N5.5trn in Nigerian Market, Stocks Hit Overbought
