XRP Holds $1.45 Support as Whales Buy 200M—What’s Next for Price?

XRP price is currently trading near $1.46 with a drop of 2.75%, holding above a key support level at $1.40, as recent data points to growing accumulation by large holders. The price is currently facing significant upward pressure, which has dragged the levels below the crucial price range, which has now turned into support. In the meantime, the whales have been accumulating XRP over the past two weeks, raising bullish hopes for the crypto. 

At the same time, derivatives data highlights a significant positioning cluster around the $1.40 level, making it a critical zone for short-term price action. So, what’s next for the XRP price rally?

Whale Accumulation Signals Underlying Strength

On-chain data shows a steady rise in XRP holdings among large wallets, reflecting a gradual accumulation trend. Unlike sharp spikes typically associated with speculative buying, this increase appears controlled, suggesting that larger participants are building positions over time.

Whale accumulation has had a significant impact on the market sentiments, while its impact on the price remained negligible. Hence, this does not confirm an immediate breakout, but it does indicate growing confidence in XRP’s current price range.

$1.40 Emerges as a Key Options Support Level

Derivatives markets further reinforce the importance of the $1.40 level. Approximately 25% of all XRP options open interest is concentrated at this strike price, representing nearly $14.6 million in notional value, with expiry scheduled for March 27.

This concentration often acts as a price magnet, where traders position themselves to defend or react around a specific level. With XRP currently trading above this zone, it suggests that the market is attempting to maintain support rather than aggressively push higher.

The put/call ratio of 0.83 indicates a slight bullish bias, but not strong enough to confirm a decisive directional move. Despite the accumulation and support levels, the broader market structure suggests a cautious stance as the data suggests markets are positioned for stability rather than expansion. 

What’s Next for XRP Price?

After failing multiple times, the XRP price had finally broken above the pivotal resistance range between $1.48 and $1.5 to reach the highs at $1.6. However, the price quickly dropped as the market volatility increased, with the BTC price plunging below $72,300. Currently, the bearish activity has intensified over the token, which could drag the levels to the local support. 

For now, XRP appears to be in a consolidation phase, where the next move will depend on whether buyers can sustain support and build momentum beyond key resistance levels. If XRP continues to hold above the $1.40 level, the price could attempt a move toward $1.60, followed by a potential test of $1.75. However, a breakdown below $1.40 could weaken the current structure and expose downside levels near $1.30 and $1.20.

Collectively, the XRP price is showing signs of quiet accumulation and strong support, but the market remains cautious. While whale activity and options positioning provide a foundation, they do not yet confirm a breakout.