XRP has struggled to break free from its recent bearish grip following a pullback that began on July 3rd. Since then, price action has remained trapped beneath a critical resistance level at $2.30. This zone has historically proven difficult for the asset, with rejections occurring multiple times—specifically on May 24, May 27, June 16, June 30, and now once again.

The $2.30 resistance trendline acts as a psychological and technical barrier for bulls. Despite attempts to rally, XRP has failed to produce the sustained momentum needed to reclaim this level, resulting in continued sideways trading within a narrowing range. For traders, this consolidation represents both a challenge and a waiting game. Until a definitive breakout occurs, uncertainty remains the dominant theme.

Technical analysis suggests that breaking above $2.30 could serve as a significant bullish signal, potentially pushing XRP toward higher resistance levels like $2.33 and $2.46. However, the longer the price remains underneath this barrier, the more likely it is for downward pressure to return.

According to prominent crypto analyst Dark Defender, the weekly candle close will play a crucial role in determining XRP’s near-term trajectory. He stated that if XRP can secure a weekly close above the $2.28–$2.33 range, it would validate bullish momentum heading into the next trading week. However, a failure to close above this band would reinforce the current range-bound behavior and may signal additional weakness.

In terms of downside risks, Dark Defender pointed to several key support levels: $2.19, $2.07, and the psychologically critical $1.99. Holding above $1.99 is essential for XRP to preserve its current bullish market structure. A decisive move below this level would likely invite additional selling pressure, invalidating the recent rebound and potentially leading to a deeper correction.

Despite brief upward spikes, XRP’s overall price movement has been described as choppy and indecisive. Volume remains relatively low, and momentum indicators have yet to flip decisively bullish. As such, market participants are waiting for a catalyst—whether from broader market sentiment or Ripple-specific developments—that could trigger the next major leg.

The lack of a strong directional move also reflects the wider altcoin market, which has been generally consolidating following June’s volatility. Bitcoin dominance has increased slightly, diverting capital away from some major altcoins, including XRP. As such, any bullish breakout by XRP will likely require a supportive environment across the broader crypto market.

Until then, XRP’s short-term price action is expected to oscillate between the established support and resistance levels. Bulls will need to hold the $2.00 region to maintain structure, while bears will look for any failure at $2.30 to confirm continued pressure. Any breakout above $2.30, especially with strong volume and a positive close above $2.33, would offer traders more confidence in a sustainable upside move.

In conclusion, XRP remains at a technical crossroads. Key resistance at $2.30 is preventing bullish continuation, while support at $1.99 must hold to avoid triggering a bearish breakdown. Traders are watching closely as the weekly candle close approaches, understanding that the result could significantly influence XRP’s trajectory in the weeks ahead. For now, caution and patience dominate XRP trading strategies, with the broader crypto market keeping a close eye on Ripple’s next move.