Ripple (XRP), one of the leading players in the cryptocurrency market, has returned to the spotlight with speculation about a possible collaboration with Charles Hoskinson, founder of Cardano. Many wonder if this move was the catalyst for XRP’s recent gains and if it could trigger a 60,000% appreciation, similar to what happened in 2017. Is this an exaggerated projection or the beginning of a new and unprecedented price rise?

Since Donald Trump's election, analysts have been debating the impact of his pro-crypto stance on the digital asset sector. A clear example is the recent expansion of Robinhood (NASDAQ:HOOD), which began offering new cryptocurrencies such as Solana, Cardano and the controversial XRP.

The decision not only reflects the platform’s confidence in the regulatory future of cryptocurrencies, but also signals the continued influence of politics on the market. Many enthusiasts interpret this move as the beginning of a “crypto spring” under the Trump administration.

The cryptocurrency XRP soared more than 20% last Saturday, 16, reaching its highest price since November 2021. The asset has been driven in recent days by growing optimism among investors about a possible improvement in the regulatory environment in the United States starting next year.

The appreciation recorded in recent days has caused the asset to grow by almost US$20 billion in its market capitalization, which has surpassed US$60 billion. Data from CoinGecko indicates that, in the last seven days, the accumulated increase is 95%. This Monday, the 18th, the appreciation is smaller, at 1.4% in the last 24 hours.

Considering a longer period of 14 days, the surge is even more significant, with XRP rising more than 122%. The movement marks a recovery for the cryptocurrency, which had seen some declines throughout 2024. Now, the resumption of appreciation has placed XRP on the list of the six most valuable cryptos on the market.

Investor optimism reflects an expectation that US President-elect Donald Trump will implement changes that will result in a more favorable regulatory environment for the sector, reversing the position adopted during the administration of President Joe Biden.