Why PEPE’s price is up 12% – KEY support, RSI surge & more…

The jump comes as altcoins outperform Bitcoin.

Written by Samyukhtha L KM

Reviewed by Jacob Thomas

Updated 13:00 EST January 14, 2026

Pepe [PEPE] is back! After a strong start to 2026, the memecoin just jumped another 12% in the last 24 hours. What’s going on?

Pepe breaks out as pace returns

PEPE’s latest move is a very clean breakout. The chart shows price pushing strongly above its recent range, delivering a 12% jump before slowing down slightly.

The memecoin is still holding above its prior support zone, so buyers haven’t rushed for the exits just yet. Increased volume means real crowds are pushing the move.

The RSI was in the mid-60s, so there was pace with mild overheating. Even as price pauses, Pepe’s structure remains constructive.

The short-term trend is in the bull’s favor.

Altcoins take the wheel, and Pepe keeps pace

Over the past 60 days, a growing number of altcoins have outperformed Bitcoin [BTC], and PEPE sits firmly in that group.

Alphractal data showed Bitcoin’s returns going flat, while select altcoins pushed higher; this is a clear rotation. Perhaps traders are looking for higher upside beyond BTC, especially after the strong breakouts.

PEPE’s recent jump fits neatly into the narrative, so the move isn’t happening out of the blue.

Whales keep the pace going

There’s been a clear rise in whale activity around PEPE’s recent push higher, with frequent transactions above $100K. Some have even crossed the $1 million mark, appearing alongside the gains.

Large holders seem active during both breakouts and pullbacks, so traders are positioning for a time. Even when the price fell for a bit, whale transactions didn’t disappear, so interest is beyond just the price charts.

Bigger players haven’t walked away from the move yet. Provided the current pace holds, their steady presence could help cushion dips and keep PEPE in play.