In a market that typically moves as one, some are suggesting this cycle could be different. Canary Capital CEO Steven McClurg believes XRP may follow a separate path from Bitcoin this year, citing enterprise adoption as a key driver.
Speaking on a podcast with host Paul Barron, McClurg expressed a cautious outlook on Bitcoin while highlighting protocols focused on real-world tokenization. He suggested that a shift toward practical applications could allow a select group of tokens to diverge from broader market trends.
XRP and Hedera Viewed as Practical Choices
McClurg pointed to the XRP Ledger and Hedera as networks poised to benefit from enterprise adoption and tokenization. He argued that platforms with clear utility—such as payment systems, tokenized assets, or stablecoin infrastructure—are better positioned to retain value when speculative enthusiasm wanes.
He does not expect these assets to surge dramatically; instead, he anticipates modest, low double-digit growth rather than explosive gains.
Bitcoin Faces Further Downside Risk
McClurg struck a more pessimistic note on Bitcoin, stating he believes it peaked at $126,200 on October 6, 2025. Since then, the price has fallen about 35% to roughly $95,800. He warned that Bitcoin could drop another 20–30% over the next six to nine months, potentially bringing it to between $65,000 and $77,000 before the cycle ends.
Based on his view, a new all-time high is unlikely in 2026, and the market may be entering a deeper correction.
Markets Often Move in Tandem
Skeptics note that altcoins typically suffer steeper losses during market downturns, a pattern supported by historical trends. Liquidity often evaporates during major Bitcoin sell-offs, and even assets with real-world use cases can decline in a broad risk-off environment.
In simpler terms, XRP might fall less than Bitcoin and appear stronger by comparison, but true independence from Bitcoin is rare and usually short-lived.
Relative Outperformance Is the More Likely Scenario
According to McClurg, the most realistic outcome is relative outperformance rather than a complete decoupling. This means XRP and similar tokens could hold steady or post modest gains even if Bitcoin weakens.
While such a pattern would be noteworthy for investors and enterprises exploring tokenization, it does not imply a dramatic price surge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about XRP potentially charting its own course independent of Bitcoin based on the CEOs statement
Beginner General Questions
1 What does it mean that XRP is charting its own course
It means that the price and market performance of XRP may no longer simply follow the ups and downs of Bitcoin Instead its value could be driven more by its own specific news adoption and utility
2 Why has XRP typically moved with Bitcoin in the past
Most cryptocurrencies have been highly correlated with Bitcoin because its the largest and most influential asset in the crypto market Traders often treat crypto as a single asset class so major Bitcoin news impacts everything
3 Who is the CEO that said this and why should I care
This refers to Brad Garlinghouse CEO of Ripple the company closely associated with XRP His statement is significant because it highlights a strategic focus on XRPs realworld use cases rather than just its speculative trading value
4 What could make XRP move independently from Bitcoin
Key drivers would be major adoption by banks or financial institutions for crossborder payments clarity or positive developments in its ongoing legal case with the SEC and new partnerships that utilize the XRP Ledger for specific purposes
Advanced MarketFocused Questions
5 Is XRP actually decoupling from Bitcoin right now
While shortterm price movements can show independence a true sustained decoupling is a longterm trend that analysts watch for It hasnt fully happened yet but specific XRPrelated events can cause it to temporarily move opposite the broader market
6 What are the benefits of XRP decoupling from Bitcoin
It would signal that the market values XRP for its underlying technology and utility not just as a speculative crypto bet This could lead to more stability and attract institutional investors who are interested in its specific use case rather than general crypto volatility
7 Whats the biggest challenge to XRP achieving independence
The single largest challenge is the ongoing lawsuit with the US Securities and Exchange Commission The outcome will provide critical regulatory clarity that will massively influence XRPs adoption and price trajectory
8 Can you give an example of when XRP moved independently
Yes