Smart Money Moves: XRP Whales Step In as Retail Backs Off

XRP Whales Are Accumulating Again — A Setup That Previously Triggered Explosive Rallies

Renowned market analyst Xaif Crypto notes that XRP may be gearing up for another upside move, as on-chain data shows whale dominance in 30-day inflows rising while retail participation fades, a setup that has historically preceded major XRP rallies.

Notably, this market shift is a familiar pattern. In previous cycles, falling retail participation alongside rising whale accumulation has consistently marked the transition from consolidation to strong upside breakouts. 

Whales, often institutions or high-net-worth investors, typically move early, accumulating during periods of uncertainty and subdued sentiment, positioning ahead of the next wave of broader market participation.

History offers a clear parallel. In 2021, a sharp rise in whale accumulation preceded XRP’s explosive rally past $1.96. On-chain data showed large holders steadily building positions while retail participation lagged. When momentum finally ignited, retail traders rushed in, fueling and accelerating the upside move.

A strikingly similar setup emerged in late 2024. As noted by Xaif Crypto, a clear “inflow flip” took place, with whale inflows decisively overtaking retail on a sustained basis. 

What followed was a powerful repricing of XRP, surging from roughly $0.50 to a cycle peak near $3.29. The move reinforced a key market lesson: whale-led accumulation tends to lead major expansions rather than merely confirm them.

Today, that same dynamic appears to be resurfacing. Whale share of 30-day inflows is rising again as retail participation continues to fade. With XRP trading around $2.04, according to CoinCodex, price sits well above historical accumulation zones yet remains below recent highs. 

This positioning points to a transitional phase, suggesting the market may be quietly re-aligning ahead of its next decisive move.

Conclusion

The current XRP setup closely echoes past conditions that preceded powerful upside moves. Rising whale dominance in 30-day inflows alongside fading retail participation has historically signaled a quiet accumulation phase before major price expansions. 

With XRP hovering near $2.04, the market appears to be at a familiar inflection point, where large players position early while broader participation remains muted. 

If previous cycles are any indication, sustained whale accumulation could once again ignite momentum and pull retail interest back in. While confirmation is still needed and risks remain, the data points to XRP building for its next meaningful move rather than losing strength.