$1B Inflows, Silent Accumulation, Loud Whales: Why XRP Is Range-Bound According to renowned market analyst Diana, over $1 billion has poured into XRP-focused ETFs, yet XRP remains below $2. While such inflows typically fuel price breakouts, XRP has stayed range-bound. Diana argues this isn’t bearish, but structural, reflecting how ETF demand is being absorbed without immediately translating into spot price acceleration. On the surface, the figures are striking. Spot XRP ETFs from heavyweights like Bitwise, Grayscale, Franklin Templeton, and 21Shares have pulled in over $1 billion in a short span, clear evidence of sustained institutional interest rather than fleeting retail speculation. Well, unlike direct exchange buying, ETF inflows don’t translate into instant price surges. This is the case because ETF accumulation is deliberate, gradual, and largely invisible. XRP acquired by ETFs is steadily absorbed and locked into custodial structures, where it doesn’t trade, flip, or respond to short-term price swings. Once sequestered, that supply is effectively removed from active circulation. The impact isn’t immediate price fireworks, but a slow, structural tightening of supply that builds quietly over time. Meanwhile, a contrasting dynamic unfolds on exchanges. Large early holders, whales, are strategically distributing XRP into deep liquidity venues like Binance. This isn’t panic selling; it’s deliberate, strength-driven selling aligned with institutional demand. On-chain data shows these moves are highly visible and can dampen price momentum, even amid robust underlying demand. Therefore, a temporary standoff is unfolding because ETFs are quietly soaking up XRP, while whales are selling openly and fast. This tug-of-war is keeping prices range-bound despite strong inflows. Diana acknowledges that the present phase won’t last forever. ETFs keep buying as long as inflows continue, but whales eventually finish distributing. Once exchange deposits slow and selling pressure eases, the market structure can shift dramatically. Once ETF demand exhausts available supply, resistance turns into acceleration, pressure becomes fuel. According to Diana, this is typical of institutional-driven markets ahead of major repricing: price lags while structure shifts. XRP’s current $1.92 level isn't a sign of weak demand, it signals a market quietly repositioning for the next phase. Conclusion XRP trading below $2 doesn’t signal weak demand, it reflects a silent tug-of-war: patient institutional ETF accumulation versus active whale selling. As ETFs steadily lock up supply and whale activity slows, the market is quietly primed for a breakout. Once selling pressure eases, this accumulated demand could ignite upward momentum, turning today’s quiet absorption into tomorrow’s price surge.
