XRP ETFs Attract $35 Million Inflows While Bitcoin and Ether Funds Lose $2 Billion in Late May
By Shaurya Malwa | Updated May 30, 2026, 12:14 p.m.
In a notable divergence within the cryptocurrency exchange-traded funds (ETFs) market, U.S.-listed spot XRP ETFs recorded significant inflows last week, even as traditionally dominant Bitcoin and Ether funds experienced substantial outflows. Data covering the period from May 20 to May 29 reveals that XRP ETFs gained approximately $35 million, whereas Bitcoin and Ether ETFs collectively lost nearly $2 billion.
XRP ETFs Continue Positive Momentum
On May 29 alone, XRP ETFs attracted $11.88 million in net inflows, extending a streak of increasing investment into these products despite ongoing redemptions in Bitcoin and Ether funds. According to data from SoSoValue, spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded $125.31 million in net outflows that day, marking their tenth consecutive day of withdrawals. Ether-related funds saw another $17.91 million exit, following $121.35 million in outflows the previous day.
In contrast, XRP-based ETFs like Bitwise’s XRP ETF led the inflows with $7.36 million, followed by Canary’s XRPC at $2.38 million and Franklin’s XRPZ at $2.14 million. Total net assets across all U.S.-listed XRP ETFs stood near $1.12 billion, equating to approximately 1.37% of XRP’s overall market value. Since May 20, these funds have accumulated $35 million, while Bitcoin and Ether ETFs saw outflows totaling roughly $1.70 billion and $309 million, respectively.
Distinct Narrative Supports XRP Demand
This inflow pattern suggests XRP is capitalizing on a unique policy and product narrative that differs from Bitcoin and Ether. Market participants are closely monitoring U.S. regulatory developments affecting market structures, the adoption rate of XRP ETFs, and whether institutional interest in XRP can sustain growth amid the broader crypto market’s volatility.
Despite these inflows, XRP’s price has remained relatively stable in the low-$1.30 range during this period, indicating that the ETF gains have not yet translated into a significant price rally.
Possible Treasury Vehicle Demand Could Amplify Interest
Adding further intrigue is XRP’s potential involvement in a large-scale treasury accumulation initiative. In October 2025, Bloomberg reported that Ripple Labs was spearheading efforts to raise at least $1 billion through a Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC) to create a digital asset treasury vehicle aimed at acquiring XRP tokens. Ripple was also expected to contribute some of its own holdings.
Such a deal would represent one of the largest known XRP treasury vehicles to date, coinciding with a trend observed throughout 2025 where crypto-focused treasury firms employed SPACs, reverse mergers, and equity offerings to acquire digital assets amid rising prices and investor appetite for balance-sheet exposure.
CoinDesk has reached out to Ripple Labs for confirmation and updates regarding the status of this proposed treasury plan but has yet to receive a definitive response.
XRP’s Dual Demand Channels
Currently, XRP appears to enjoy two complementary demand channels: growing exposure via public market ETF purchases, and potential accumulation through private treasury vehicles should Ripple finalize its SPAC initiative.
This contrast with the waning institutional enthusiasm for Bitcoin and Ether products could influence broader market dynamics as investors reassess asset allocations within crypto.
Market Snapshot (as of May 30, 2026):
- Bitcoin (BTC): $63,331.22 (down 3.53%)
- Ethereum (ETH): $1,763.54 (down 4.48%)
- XRP: $1.16 (down 4.48%)
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