XRP has been on a solid upward run after weeks of sideways movement, but now faces its biggest test yet. The cryptocurrency is bumping up against a tough resistance zone just below $3.00, with the 200 EMA adding extra pressure. All eyes are on whether XRP can push through this barrier or if the rally will lose steam before Friday's Non-Farm Payroll data hits the market.
Technical Setup Shows Mixed Signals
Looking at the 4-hour XRP/USDT chart reveals several important dynamics at play. XRP is currently trapped within a strong resistance zone between $2.95 and $3.00, where sellers have consistently stepped in during previous attempts. The 200 EMA is converging with this resistance area, creating a double layer of potential rejection that could spark a pullback.
If XRP gets rejected here, the nearest support sits around $2.89, with more substantial backing near $2.65 where the price last found its footing. For bulls to take real control, XRP needs a convincing break above $3.12 - anything less could just be a false breakout. The technical picture also suggests XRP might be getting a bit overextended across multiple timeframes, meaning even a bullish scenario could involve some backing and filling first.
This outlook reflects the caution expressed by trader @TheDustyBC, who noted that the market remains risky ahead of key economic data.

Economic Data Could Be the Catalyst
The upcoming Non-Farm Payrolls report represents one of those rare events that can actually move markets in a meaningful way. A strong jobs number typically puts pressure on risk assets like crypto, while disappointing data often sends money flowing into higher-risk investments. With much of the crypto market stuck in range-bound trading, this economic release could provide the spark needed to break XRP and other coins out of their current patterns.
Price Outlook: Two Clear Scenarios
If bulls win: A clean break above $3.12 opens the door for XRP to target $3.50 and potentially higher levels, especially if broader market conditions turn favorable.
If bears take control: A rejection at current resistance could send XRP back toward $2.89 support, with deeper selling potentially pushing it down to $2.65 if momentum really shifts.
The key is watching how XRP reacts to both the technical resistance and whatever economic news comes our way.