The discussion around XRP price manipulation resurfaces following XRPL validator Grapedrop's revelations about suspicious market activities.
Detected Suspicious Transfers
XRPL validator Grapedrop, who has been running a validator since July 12, 2025, has noted alarming data regarding large XRP transfers. Using a Python script he developed to track transactions above 10,000 XRP, he discovered that transfers amounting to 49,900 XRP, 67,655 XRP, and even 146,757 XRP are occurring every few minutes. These operations, he claims, are primarily linked to exchange wallets like Bitget, as well as other platforms.
Expert Opinions on Manipulation
Grapedrop emphasized that price manipulation often occurs through 'wash trading', which can distort market indexes and create a false impression of demand. Although his findings are concerning and align with known manipulation patterns, they cannot definitively prove malicious intent. Alternative explanations, such as legitimate liquidity management operations or internal wallet reorganizations, may also be at play.
XRP Market and Current Status
Despite the criticism, XRP has yet to reach its record high of $3.84 from 2021. Currently, trading volume has increased by 3% in the last 24 hours, amounting to $9.36 billion, while XRP's market capitalization stands at $195 billion, maintaining its third position among the largest cryptocurrencies.
The allegations of XRP price manipulation raise ongoing questions about transparency in the crypto market. While current data raises certain concerns, it is important to consider all possible explanations and continue monitoring the situation.
