Ripple's XRP Overtakes Tether (USDT) to Claim the Title of the Third-Largest Cryptocurrency by Market Capitalization

This surge comes at a time of growing uncertainty surrounding the future of USDT in Europe, especially as MiCA regulations (Markets in Crypto-Assets) are now in effect.

Ripple’s XRP has overtaken Tether (USDT) to become the third-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, a significant shift in the cryptocurrency market rankings. This development comes as Europe begins enforcing MiCA regulations (Markets in Crypto-Assets), which are expected to impact the landscape for stablecoins like USDT.

According to data from CoinGecko, XRP surged by 1.5% over the last 24 hours and 13.1% in the past week, currently trading at $2.44. This surge pushed XRP's market capitalization to around $140 billion, placing it behind only Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH), valued at $1.3 trillion and $427 billion, respectively.

In contrast, USDT, the second-largest cryptocurrency, experienced a decline of 1.4% over the last seven days, dropping from a market cap of $140 billion to $137 billion. This decrease coincides with growing concerns about the regulatory environment for stablecoins in Europe.

The timing of this development is crucial. MiCA regulations came into effect this week, aiming to establish a unified legal framework for the crypto industry across European Union member states. While MiCA's goal is to provide clarity and stability for the industry, it has also created significant challenges for stablecoins, especially USDT.

As the regulatory pressure mounts, platforms like Coinbase have taken precautionary measures, such as delisting USDT in Europe to avoid potential conflicts with MiCA. These actions are fueling concerns that USDT could face a difficult future in Europe, contributing to its recent decline in market capitalization.

Amidst the shifting landscape for stablecoins, new yield-bearing stablecoins are gaining ground in the market. Cryptocurrencies like Ethena, with their delta-neutral model, and Ondo, with their RWA-backed model, are becoming increasingly popular. These stablecoins offer users the ability to earn yield while holding the tokens, providing an attractive alternative to USDT.

Moreover, platforms such as Coinbase are also offering yield-bearing products for holding stablecoins like USDC, adding to the shifting demand for stablecoins. As tokens like Ethena's USDe become trading pairs on major exchanges such as Bybit, the demand for USDT continues to diminish.

Additionally, the continued secrecy surrounding USDT's reserves, particularly regarding how it maintains its peg to the US dollar, has led to a growing skepticism about the stability and transparency of USDT. These factors have combined to make USDT less appealing to many investors.

While XRP has benefited from this decline in USDT's market cap, it's important to note that this isn’t the first time XRP has overtaken USDT. In fact, back on December 1, 2024, XRP climbed above the $2 mark for the first time in nearly seven years, briefly surpassing both USDT and Solana (SOL) in market cap. This moment highlighted the growing momentum behind XRP and its position as a strong contender in the market.

XRP's rise is also influenced by optimism surrounding Ripple's legal battles with the U.S. SEC. As the case progresses, investor sentiment has shifted in favor of XRP, pushing its price and market cap to new heights. Many analysts believe that if the lawsuit is resolved in Ripple's favor, the price of XRP could see even further gains.

As 2025 unfolds, the crypto market will continue to evolve, and the shifting positions of XRP and USDT are only the beginning. With MiCA regulations influencing stablecoin dynamics in Europe and new stablecoins offering attractive alternatives to USDT, it's clear that the market landscape is undergoing significant changes.

For now, XRP's rise signals a new era for Ripple and the broader cryptocurrency market, as it continues to outshine USDT and other altcoins. The future remains bright for Ripple as it looks to solidify its position in the top ranks of the cryptocurrency world.