Viral Prediction: 5,000 XRP Will Equal 1 Bitcoin by End of 2026—The Math Behind the $18.40 XRP Target

Core Viewpoint - The XRP versus Bitcoin debate has gained significant attention, with a prediction that 5,000 XRP could equal 1 Bitcoin by the end of 2026, suggesting an XRP price target of $18.40, representing nearly 800% upside from current levels [2][4][6]. Group 1: Prediction Details - Crypto influencer Bird forecasts that by the end of 2026, the XRP/BTC ratio will reach 1:5,000, indicating that 5,000 XRP will be valued the same as 1 BTC [5][6]. - This prediction aligns with the belief among XRP supporters that the token is undervalued based on its utility and adoption potential [6]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - Historically, altcoins like XRP tend to lag behind Bitcoin during the initial phase of a bull run but often surge to outperform Bitcoin later on [7]. - Bird's prediction has revitalized hopes among XRP holders for a market rotation as 2026 approaches [7]. Group 3: Mathematical Breakdown - To reach the target price of $18.40 per XRP, a 794% gain is required, which would result in a market cap of $1.84 trillion [9][10]. - Currently, XRP's market cap is approximately $130 billion at a price of $2.10, necessitating substantial capital inflows to achieve the predicted market cap [9]. Group 4: Current Market Conditions - As of early January 2026, the XRP/BTC ratio was around 0.00002235, and to meet the target, it must increase to 0.0002 BTC per XRP, reflecting a 794% gain from current levels [10]. - With Bitcoin priced at $96,000, the calculated XRP price of $18.40 aligns with the forecasted ratio [11].