XRP Ledger Dominates DeFi Growth: Is the $13 Dream Realistic?

The XRP Ledger (XRPL) has reached a record-breaking $94.44 million in total value locked (TVL), marking a key milestone in its DeFi journey. This surge comes as most of the liquidity floods into XRPL’s native decentralized exchange and its new EVM-compatible sidechain.

Since launching its mainnet on June 30, the EVM sidechain has gained traction quickly. Over 1,300 smart contracts and more than 17,000 addresses now exist on the network. This wave of activity has fueled liquidity across XRPL’s trading platforms and pools.

EVM Sidechain Attracts DeFi Users

The EVM compatibility has made XRPL more appealing to DeFi users, opening the door to Ethereum-style contract interaction. As a result, more participants are turning to XRPL for yield farming and token swapping opportunities.

_{Source: DefiLlama}

Before July, XRPL’s TVL hovered just under $90 million, staying mostly stagnant. However, the recent jump to nearly $96 million represents a confirmed breakout. Activity on the ledger has also increased. Weekly active addresses and transaction volumes are both rising, signaling stronger on-chain engagement.

Market Cap Dominance Grows

XRP’s rise isn’t limited to TVL. Its share of the total crypto market cap has also grown. The XRP Dominance index climbed above 5%, nearing its highest point in 2025. XRP recently hit an all-time high of $3.65, adding more fuel to investor excitement.

Compared to earlier bullish runs from Bitcoin and Ethereum, XRP’s surge in market share shows a shift in investor focus. With its DeFi ecosystem expanding rapidly, XRP is gaining renewed utility and credibility.

Analyst Predicts XRP Could Hit $13 in Weeks

Technical analyst Tony “The Bull” Severino believes XRP may shoot up to $13 within 40 days. He based this forecast on Elliott Wave theory. Severino highlights a contracting triangle that formed from 2018 to 2024, which he believes sets the stage for a fifth-wave rally.

He compares this potential move to XRP’s 2017 breakout, when the coin surged 1,900% in just six weeks. Severino notes the symmetry, stating that a 1,903% drop unfolded over six weekly candles after the 2017 peak. Severino says a run to $13 could complete the fifth wave, after which XRP would likely enter a correction phase. While critics argue markets rarely follow such perfect patterns, many traders remain optimistic.

On Binance Square, one user called it a “parabolic rally,” echoing the excitement across crypto circles. Others even referenced a separate $23 forecast, tied to a so-called “Valhalla Gate” catalyst, further fueling speculation. As XRPL cements its DeFi credentials, investor focus on XRP’s potential breakout continues to intensify.

Lanre Durojaiye

Mr. Durojaiye Olusola is a finance graduate and cryptocurrency writer with over a year of experience providing market insights and clear, well-researched analysis. Dedicated to helping readers understand blockchain trends and digital asset developments.

Disclaimer: The information in this article should not be considered financial advice, and FXCryptoNews articles are intended only to provide educational and general information. Please consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.