Altcoin Forecasts 2026: AI Models Analyze Cryptocurrencies – XRP in Focus of Investors

The cryptocurrency industry is looking ahead to 2026, asking which altcoins possess the greatest growth potential. As artificial intelligence provides new analytical methods for market forecasting, XRP has developed into one of the most structurally relevant altcoins through institutional developments.

AI Models Identify Promising Candidates

A comprehensive analysis conducted by five leading AI models – ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude, Gemini, and DeepSeek – has yielded interesting consensus in forecasts for 2026 ^[1]. The models analyzed market cycles, on-chain data, narratives, VC flows, and market sentiment to arrive at their assessments.

Despite fundamentally different model architectures and data bases, three clear favorites emerged ^[1]. The projects consistently appeared across all models – ranging from conservative to experimental approaches, from technical fundamental analysis to narrative-driven valuations.

The analyses cite underlying technology, market demand, and potential application of the respective cryptocurrencies as primary reasons for potential price increases ^[1].

XRP: Technical Indicators Point to Bottom Formation

Independent of long-term forecasts, XRP currently displays a constructive market picture suggesting potential bottom formation ^[2]. Technical analysis identifies multiple bullish signals, with stability remaining closely tied to the Bitcoin price.

Particularly notable is the bullishly-aligned divergence in the RSI (Relative Strength Index). While the price recently declined slightly, the RSI showed an upward trend ^[2]. This signals diminishing selling pressure and increases the probability of an imminent reversal move.

According to analyst Bastian (Bitbull), a break above the 50 EMA on the daily chart is critical for sustained recovery. This moving average line currently functions as a dominant resistance level and has been clearly defended in the last three attempts ^[2].

Institutional Developments Strengthen Market Structure

With the introduction of spot ETFs and growing corporate interest, XRP has developed into one of the most structurally relevant altcoins in recent months ^[3]. The combination of increased market transparency, new institutional inflows, and an increasingly established payments narrative brings this asset more into focus.

In the 4-hour chart, XRP shows visibly increasing strength. The RSI has broken above its average line, while the MACD is turning into positive territory ^[2]. This combination suggests the current recovery movement can continue.

Critical Price Levels in Focus

For structural confirmation of upward momentum, XRP must reclaim and stabilize above the 50 EMA on the 4-hour chart ^[2]. Furthermore, the area around $2.24 USD represents a critical hurdle, whose breakthrough is necessary to trigger sustained upward momentum.

Analysis of liquidation levels supports a bullish scenario. In the current price range, a short delta dominates, meaning that relatively many short positions are placed in the market ^[2]. Rising prices could trigger these positions and create additional buying pressure.

Outlook: Volatility and Opportunities

XRP is at a technical decision point. The coming trading days will reveal whether a transition to a bullish-dominated market structure succeeds ^[2]. In the short term, upcoming macro data could create increased volatility, enabling sharper price movements in both directions.

Luke Nolan, Senior Research Associate at CoinShares, emphasizes the importance of the changed market structure since the ETF launch for medium to long-term price development ^[3]. The factors of institutional inflows and increasing market transparency could prove decisive in whether XRP can reach new all-time highs.