XRP Sees 6% Surge Amid Institutional Accumulation and ETF Inflows
By John Nada·Feb 25, 2026·6 min read
XRP surged 6% as strong institutional accumulation and ETF inflows indicated a significant market shift. Retail purchases also spiked, suggesting evolving investor sentiment.
XRP surged approximately 6% to around $1.42 as exchange data indicated strong institutional accumulation and increased retail buying. Spot purchases notably outpaced selling, with one exchange reporting a staggering 212% rise in retail purchase volumes between February 23 and 24. This recent price movement is significant, as it underscores a shift in market dynamics, highlighting increasing interest from both retail and institutional investors. The rise in XRP's price can be attributed not only to its strong demand but also to broader trends in the cryptocurrency market, especially in relation to exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
The recent rally coincided with the launch of new XRP exchange-traded funds (ETFs), which have garnered about $1.1 billion in net assets since mid-November. This influx stands in stark contrast to the performance of Bitcoin ETFs, which have experienced declines this year, hinting at a potential rotation of capital within the crypto market. Analysts suggest that the positive sentiment surrounding XRP may be indicative of a broader recovery phase for the cryptocurrency market, especially considering the volatility seen in recent months.
The trading landscape has changed considerably, as traders are now keenly observing whether XRP can maintain its position above the $1.40-$1.42 range. The importance of this price level is underscored by the fact that a breakthrough above the resistance at $1.45 could open up further upward movement. Conversely, a drop below $1.37 would suggest a failed breakout, potentially reversing the recent gains. This shifting dynamic showcases the evolving landscape of institutional interest in cryptocurrencies, with XRP's price action reflecting broader market strategies and allocations.
According to data from Bitrue, a long-time XRP supporter and exchange, there was a sharp surge in XRP spot activity between February 23 and 24, which coincided with a wider trend of accumulation following periods of volatility. This accumulation phase appears to be driven by both institutional investors and retail traders, indicating a growing confidence in XRP’s potential. The data revealed that retail purchase volumes rose by an impressive 212%, significantly outpacing sell orders, which reflects a robust demand for the asset. Such a strong demand from retail investors is often seen as a bullish signal, suggesting that smaller investors are increasingly optimistic about XRP’s future prospects.
Institutional positioning also appears constructive, as the newly launched XRP exchange-traded funds have attracted roughly $1.1 billion in net assets since their inception. This positive momentum is characterized by consistent weekly inflows, with only limited outflows observed, a stark contrast to the challenges faced by Bitcoin ETFs, which are down on a year-to-date basis. The divergence in performance between XRP and Bitcoin ETFs is noteworthy, as it suggests that capital may be rotating within crypto allocations rather than a broad-based exit from the market.
Moreover, spot traders experienced significant losses during a mid-February drawdown, realizing nearly $1.93 billion in losses. Historically, such shakeouts often precede stronger recoveries once speculative leverage is cleared from the market. This context is crucial, as it highlights the cyclical nature of cryptocurrency trading and the potential for rebounds following substantial sell-offs. The recent price action of XRP could very well be the beginning of such a recovery, although it remains essential for traders to monitor key levels for confirmation of continued strength.
In the immediate term, XRP climbed from $1.34 to $1.42, gaining roughly 6%, a significant move that indicates strong market interest. The decisive break above the $1.37 resistance level triggered a volume surge to 259 million, more than double the daily average. This volume expansion confirms that market participation is robust, indicating that XRP is not merely experiencing thin liquidity conditions but rather a genuine interest from traders.
As XRP consolidated near $1.42 after testing $1.43, the near-term structure appears constructive while the asset holds above $1.40. However, traders remain acutely aware of the overhead supply near $1.45, which represents a key test for XRP's price action. A failure to maintain current levels could shift focus back to the $1.37 breakout zone as the first support, emphasizing the need for vigilance among traders regarding potential shifts in momentum.
Looking forward, traders are keenly observing whether the $1.40–$1.42 zone can hold as a new base. A successful push above $1.45 would likely open the door toward $1.50 and potentially $1.57, signaling further bullish momentum for XRP. On the flip side, if momentum fades and XRP slips back below $1.37, the breakout risks turning into a false move, which would reopen the prior consolidation range and could lead to increased volatility.
For now, the elevated volume combined with spot-heavy buying suggests that positioning in XRP is improving. Yet, confirmation of this bullish sentiment heavily depends on continued follow-through above resistance levels. The current dynamics showcase a significant moment for XRP, where both retail and institutional interests are aligning, potentially paving the way for more substantial price movements in the near future.
As the cryptocurrency market continues to evolve, the sentiment surrounding XRP will be crucial to watch. Institutional participation is likely still in its early stages, and as more investors gain confidence in the asset, it could lead to greater stability and growth for XRP. This broader acceptance could also temper price swings, allowing XRP to establish itself as a more reliable player in the cryptocurrency space.
The market's recent activity not only sheds light on XRP's potential but also reflects the broader trends within the cryptocurrency sector. With the launch of ETFs and increased institutional interest, the landscape is rapidly changing. As cryptocurrencies like XRP gain traction, it raises important questions about the future of digital assets and their role in diversified portfolios. The juxtaposition of XRP's surge against the backdrop of Bitcoin's struggles presents a compelling narrative for investors, as they navigate the complexities of the crypto landscape.
In the coming weeks, as more data emerges and market conditions continue to evolve, XRP's price action will undoubtedly remain a focal point for traders and investors alike. The interplay of supply and demand dynamics, alongside institutional interest, will be critical in shaping the future trajectory of XRP. The current market conditions, characterized by strong retail buying and institutional accumulation, suggest that XRP may be on the cusp of a more significant breakout, provided it can navigate the critical resistance levels ahead.