In a major market shift, Ripple XRP has officially surpassed Tether (USDT) to become the third-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, according to real-time data from top aggregators.
— Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) May 12, 2025
UPDATE: $XRP flips $USDT to become the third-largest cryptocurrency by market cap. pic.twitter.com/rWh1ddzSiR
The surge comes as XRP’s price climbed over 15% in the past 48 hours, buoyed by renewed investor confidence and a spike in trading volumes across major exchanges. With a market cap now exceeding USDT’s, XRP sits behind only Bitcoin ($BTC) and Ethereum ($ETH) in the crypto rankings.
This momentum follows a string of bullish developments for XRP, including growing institutional interest, increasing adoption for cross-border payments, and ongoing optimism surrounding Ripple’s legal clarity in the U.S.
Meanwhile, Tether (USDT) — though maintaining its $1 peg — has seen relatively stable market movement, with its market cap slightly retracting due to reduced issuance and capital rotation into risk-on assets like XRP and ETH.
“This flippening marks a psychological win for XRP holders, especially after years of legal uncertainty,” noted crypto analyst Lina Rhodes. “It signals the market’s renewed belief in XRP’s utility and long-term relevance.”
XRP’s rise in market cap also reflects broader trends in altcoin resurgence, as traders rotate capital away from stablecoins and into assets with higher upside potential during bullish cycles.
As of writing, XRP’s market cap stands at $150 Bn, narrowly edging out USDT’s $149 Bn, according to data from CoinMarketCap.
Looking Ahead
Market watchers will now be focused on whether XRP can maintain this position amid volatile price action and macroeconomic uncertainties. With sentiment swinging bullish, further gains could solidify XRP’s place among crypto’s elite.
Conclusion
XRP’s ascent to the third-largest cryptocurrency by market cap marks a significant milestone for the asset and its community. The flip above USDT highlights a shift in market sentiment, driven by increasing adoption, legal clarity, and a renewed appetite for risk assets. While sustaining this position will depend on broader market conditions and continued momentum, XRP’s strong performance underscores its relevance in the evolving digital asset landscape.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. CoinCryptoNewz is not responsible for any losses incurred. Readers should do their own research before making financial decisions.
