XRP has been included in Nasdaq's expanded Crypto Index US benchmark, marking a significant milestone for the cryptocurrency's adoption. Beginning June 2, 2025, however, the index will broaden its reach. It’ll now include not only Bitcoin and Ethereum, but Cardano, Solana and Stellar Lumens. Despite this bullish breakout, XRP is still struggling with overhead resistance at $2.30, buying and selling hands and knees around $2.25 at press time. XRP’s price is unlikely to change dramatically at this moment given the ongoing market and regulatory headwinds. There’s really big long-term potential for institutional adoption.

Nasdaq's Crypto Index Expansion

Nasdaq's decision to expand its Crypto US Settlement Price Index to include XRP alongside Cardano (ADA), Solana (SOL), and Stellar Lumens (XLM) represents a notable shift in the acceptance of alternative cryptocurrencies by mainstream financial institutions. This expansion indicates a growing recognition of the potential and maturity of these digital assets within the broader financial ecosystem. The addition of XRP to such a high-profile index is sure to boost its visibility and credibility with institutional investors.

The law went into effect on June 2, 2025. It represents a major expansion of the trading services offered by Nasdaq in a bid to provide a clearer picture of the cryptocurrency market. The new index tracks a larger variety of digital assets. With this expanded approach, investors get a truly diversified benchmark for understanding and tracking overall performance of the crypto market. This expansion is a sign of the growing demand for exposure to a wider variety of cryptocurrencies instead of just Bitcoin and Ethereum.

This decision made by Nasdaq is especially historic for XRP, given the enormous regulatory scapegoat it has endured in the past few years. Inclusion in such a widely-recognized index, such as Nasdaq’s Crypto US Settlement Price Index, goes a long way to legitimizing XRP. Such recognition will likely draw additional institutional interest. Any short-term effects on price might be muted by existing market dynamics. The implications for XRP adoption and integration with traditional finance long-term are far-reaching.

Price Analysis and Market Dynamics

At press time XRP was trading around $2.25 and looking to break overhead resistance at the $2.30 level. A technical analysis of XRP’s recent price movements paints a more complicated picture. Going by the indicators, there are some positive support as well as bearish resistance levels which will determine its short-term course. Neutral momentum The cryptocurrency’s Relative Strength Index (RSI) on the 2-hour chart is 51.52, suggesting neutral momentum.

Looking at these lower time frames gives us more information. The RSI print on the 30 minute chart is 34.32. On the flip side, according to 1 min chart XRP RSI is currently at 32.74 and it is nearing the oversold zone. This would mean upside price action could be more likely in a short-term bounce if buying pressure reemerges.

Technical analysts caution that XRP needs to re-take and stay above the $2.30 rail on strong volume. If it is unable to achieve this, it may retract to the $2.14 support level. A bullish breakout above $2.30 might open the door for additional upside potential. The shifting market forces further highlight the importance of understanding and monitoring technical indicators. Measuring overall market sentiment will help you forecast where XRP is headed next with its price.

Regulatory Landscape and Institutional Interest

XRP is quite enthused to get its ETF exposure. Regulatory approval is key and would have a substantial effect on its adoption by institutional investors. As illustrated by Hashdex’s concerns about holding XRP, the prevailing regulatory restrictions are unduly restrictive on which investment trusts can and should be allowed to hold XRP.

Under current regulatory restrictions, the Trust is only permitted to hold Bitcoin and Ether. - Hashdex

Even with these caveats, the adoption of XRP by Nasdaq’s Crypto Index is an encouraging sign, one that represents increased institutional acceptance.

While ETFs can’t yet hold XRP, this move by Nasdaq reflects growing institutional acceptance. - Harshini Chakka

This move suggests that despite regulatory headwinds, there is increasing recognition of XRP's potential and value within the digital asset space. As regulatory clarity comes to fruition, we would expect XRP’s inclusion in investment products such as ETFs to grow. This move would significantly increase its availability and appeal to a wider class of investors.