XRP-Linked ETFs Attract $35 Million in Late May While Bitcoin and Ether Funds Lose $2 Billion
By Shaurya Malwa | May 30, 2026
In a notable divergence within the cryptocurrency exchange-traded fund (ETF) landscape, U.S.-listed spot XRP ETFs attracted $35 million in net inflows between May 20 and May 29, even as bitcoin and ether funds collectively saw outflows nearing $2 billion. This trend highlights a growing but still niche institutional interest in XRP-based products amid broader cooling demand for other major cryptocurrencies.
XRP ETFs Gain Momentum Amid Bitcoin and Ether Redemptions
Data from SoSoValue reveals that on May 29 alone, XRP ETFs brought in $11.88 million in net inflows, continuing a week of positive capital movement. Meanwhile, spot bitcoin ETFs experienced $125.31 million in outflows on the same day, marking their tenth consecutive day of net redemptions. Ether-focused products also saw another $17.91 million in outflows, following a previous day’s loss of $121.35 million.
Among the XRP ETFs, Bitwise’s fund led with $7.36 million of inflows on May 29, followed by Canary’s XRPC ETF adding $2.38 million and Franklin’s XRPZ ETF with $2.14 million. The total net assets held by U.S. XRP ETFs are now approximately $1.12 billion, representing about 1.37% of XRP’s total market value. Cumulative net inflows into these ETFs have reached $1.42 billion, underscoring sustained though relatively modest interest compared to bitcoin ETFs, which hold over $94 billion in net assets.
Understanding the Demand Divergence
The inflow into XRP-focused ETFs contrasts sharply with the outflow pressures on bitcoin and ether funds, which appear to be facing a cooling institutional appetite following a period of volatile price action. XRP’s ability to attract fresh capital despite a price that has remained stable in the low-$1.30 range suggests the token benefits from distinct market dynamics.
One factor contributing to XRP’s appeal is its unique policy environment and product narrative. Traders and investors are closely monitoring U.S. market structure legislation, ongoing XRP ETF adoption, and institutional demand that could sustain itself independently of bitcoin and ether market trends.
Ripple’s Treasury Plan Remains Unconfirmed
The inflow dynamics coincide with an earlier, still unresolved report concerning Ripple Labs’ potential strategic move. In October 2025, Bloomberg reported that Ripple was spearheading an initiative to raise at least $1 billion through a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) aimed at creating a digital asset treasury vehicle to accumulate XRP tokens. The plan included Ripple contributing some of its own XRP holdings.
CoinDesk has reached out to Ripple for confirmation regarding the status of this initiative but has yet to receive an update. If realized, this treasury vehicle would represent one of the largest dedicated XRP accumulation efforts to date. The strategy aligns with a broader 2025 trend where crypto-focused treasury companies raised capital via SPACs and other equity market instruments to acquire digital tokens, capitalizing on rising crypto valuations and investor demand for balance sheet exposure.
Market Context and Outlook
While XRP ETFs remain relatively small compared to bitcoin funds, their effective capital inflows amidst a general downturn in crypto ETF demand suggest potential growth avenues. Increased regulatory clarity, further ETF approvals, and institutional treasury strategies may enhance XRP’s market position.
In contrast, bitcoin and ether ETFs appear to be experiencing profit-taking or repositioning after months of price volatility. This shift in investor sentiment underscores the evolving preferences within crypto investment products, where narratives and policy signals significantly influence capital flows.
As of May 30, 2026, XRP holds steady at approximately $1.34, with bitcoin at $73,825 and ether near $2,020. Investors continue to watch for developments in ETF markets and Ripple Labs’ treasury plans that could impact XRP’s trajectory.
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