XRP News: XRP Slips to $2.86 Amid ETF Setback and Whale Divergence

Key TakeawaysXRP price drops 1.01% to $2.86, underperforming the broader crypto market (+0.66%).SEC ETF withdrawal delays hopes for institutional adoption of altcoins.Technical breakdown below $2.88 pivot brings $2.81 Fibonacci support into focus. SEC Withdrawal Stalls XRP ETF HopesThe SEC’s decision to withdraw 19b-4 filings for XRP ETFs has cast a shadow over short-term institutional demand. This setback comes just weeks after the Ripple case settlement reignited optimism around regulated investment products for XRP.Despite six pending XRP ETF applications, the withdrawal reinforces the regulatory uncertainty facing non-BTC/ETH digital assets. It also highlights inconsistency in U.S. crypto policy, especially amid Trump-era pro-crypto sentiments.What to watch: The SEC’s final decision on spot XRP ETFs, due by October 23. Notably, Polymarket odds still suggest a 99% chance of approval, signaling lingering optimism among prediction market participants. Technical Breakdown Threatens Near-Term MomentumFrom a technical perspective, XRP broke below its 24-hour pivot at $2.88, and is now testing 78.6% Fibonacci support at $2.81. The MACD crossover turned bearish (-0.035 vs -0.022 signal), while the RSI sits at a neutral 47.53, offering no immediate rebound signals.Data from CoinMarketCapWhale Moves Signal Strategic PositioningA divergence in bullish and bearish whale movements underscores the conflicting narratives driving XRP trading behavior—with retail investors responding emotionally to SEC headlines, while institutional players appear to be positioning for the next regulatory phase.Despite mixed inflows and outflows, XRP’s turnover ratio stands at 2.9%, above the market average, reflecting healthy liquidity even amid recent volatility. Outlook: Can XRP Hold Above Key Support Levels?XRP’s short-term weakness reflects a combination of regulatory setbacks, technical selling, and uncertain whale signals. While the broader crypto market holds steady, XRP price performance remains vulnerable unless regulatory clarity improves.With the October 23 ETF decision looming, bulls need to defend the $2.81–$2.70 support zone to prevent further breakdown. A close above $2.88, coupled with renewed volume, could revive bullish momentum, but the next few days may prove critical.