Monero Price Prediction: XMR Approaches All-Time High as Privacy Sector heats up

In 2026, the privacy narrative in the crypto market continues to heat up. Monero (XMR) has risen approximately 7% in the past 24 hours, with its price rapidly approaching historical highs, making it one of the most watched privacy assets in the current market. Meanwhile, the open interest in XMR futures has increased by about 25%, indicating that the derivatives market is notably optimistic about its short-term trend.

From an overall market structure perspective, short-term sentiment remains bullish, but traders should remain cautious of potential sharp volatility during the weekend and early Monday trading sessions. Historical experience shows that Bitcoin (BTC) tends to exhibit amplified volatility during periods of low liquidity, which can impact the entire crypto market. In this context, short-term traders are better off controlling their positions, while those favoring swing strategies can wait for Monday’s market confirmation before evaluating entry points.

On the technical side, XMR did not break below the $400 level at the end of 2025 as some analyses predicted. Instead, it maintained a steady upward trend supported by buying pressure. The capital flow indicator shows that the daily buy and sell forces remain in a neutral to slightly bullish zone, with no clear signs of distribution. The MACD and medium- to long-term moving average structures have been trending upward since early 2026, reflecting sustained trend momentum.

Regarding price targets, the historical high around $517 remains a key level of interest for bulls. The current market consensus is that as long as the overall crypto sentiment does not experience a systemic reversal, Monero has the potential to retest or even break through previous highs.

Short-term risks should not be overlooked. Weekend market movements and Bitcoin’s potential pullback could create localized disturbances, but structural demand in the privacy sector remains solid. Multiple indicators show that a demand zone has formed around $470, and a pullback to this area could find strong support.

On a shorter cycle, technical structures indicate that the key technical level around $480 has repeatedly provided support during recent retests, helping push the price higher again. However, the $490 to $500 zone still represents a phase of dense selling pressure, and traders should monitor trading activity in this area to assess whether subsequent breakthroughs are sustainable.

Overall, with increased interest in privacy assets and improved capital inflows, Monero is currently in a phase of trend and sentiment resonance. Nonetheless, traders should balance operational rhythm with risk management.