|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
- Monero transaction activity remains elevated despite exchange delistings.
- XRP must reclaim $1.65 to avoid further downside pressure.
- Privacy demand and regulation continue shaping crypto market trends.
Crypto markets are showing a split narrative in early 2026. On one side, privacy-focused assets continue to see steady usage despite regulatory pressure. On the other, large-cap altcoins like XRP are grappling with technical resistance that could shape near-term sentiment. Together, the signals highlight how regulation, infrastructure, and market psychology are defining this cycle.
Monero Usage Defies Exchange Restrictions
A new report from TRM Labs shows that activity on the Monero network remains far above pre-2022 levels. This comes despite delistings and restrictions across major platforms, including Binance and Coinbase.
The findings suggest that privacy coins are being used less for speculation and more for functional transactions. Darknet market data also indicates a growing preference for privacy-preserving payment methods, even as transparent blockchain monitoring tools improve.
Interestingly, ransomware payments still rely heavily on Bitcoin, largely due to liquidity and accessibility advantages. This reinforces the idea that usability often outweighs privacy in mainstream adoption, while Monero continues serving niche but persistent demand.
Network Research Points to Infrastructure Nuances
Separate research published via arXiv examined peer behavior on the Monero network and found that roughly 15% of reachable nodes deviated from expected patterns. Researchers noted these irregularities likely stem from relay timing and network topology rather than malicious interference or cryptographic weakness.
The takeaway is that while Monero’s privacy guarantees remain intact, infrastructure design and network conditions still influence how transactions propagate — a factor that could shape future optimizations.
XRP Struggles Beneath Key Resistance
While privacy coins show resilience, XRP is facing a critical technical crossroads. The token, linked to Ripple, recently rebounded from support near $1.41 but continues to trade below both its 50-day and 200-day moving averages.
The $1.64–$1.65 zone has now flipped into resistance after multiple rejections, suggesting buyers lack conviction. Falling on-balance volume also points to distribution rather than accumulation.
Also Read: Monero Surges as Privacy Coins Falter — Is $517 Back in Sight?
Analysts are watching a potential gravestone doji forming on the monthly chart — historically a warning sign of trend exhaustion. Unless XRP reclaims resistance with strong momentum, downside pressure could persist.
The contrast between Monero’s sustained usage and XRP’s technical fragility illustrates a broader crypto reality: adoption is increasingly driven by real-world utility and regulatory dynamics, not just market hype. Privacy demand remains alive, while price trends continue to hinge on liquidity, sentiment, and policy direction. The coming months may reveal whether these forces converge — or continue pulling the market in different directions.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of Chain Affairs. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. Chain Affairs is not responsible for any financial losses.
I’m your translator between the financial Old World and the new frontier of crypto. After a career demystifying economics and markets, I enjoy elucidating crypto – from investment risks to earth-shaking potential. Let’s explore!
