Binance Sees Institutional XRP Exodus Despite ETF Approval
The recent approval of an XRP exchange-traded fund (ETF), a landmark event for the cryptocurrency, has failed to catalyze sustained bullish momentum. Instead, on-chain data reveals a counterintuitive trend: significant selling pressure from large-scale holders, commonly referred to as 'whales,' is dominating market activity. This pressure is most visibly concentrated on major exchanges, with Binance serving as the primary destination for these institutional-scale outflows. Analytics from platforms like CryptoQuant indicate that wallet bands holding between 100,000 and 1 million XRP, and those holding over 1 million XRP, are responsible for the majority of recent exchange deposits. The sheer volume of these transfers—far beyond the scope of typical retail trading—suggests a coordinated or widespread decision among major investors to liquidate positions. This persistent selling creates a substantial headwind against the positive sentiment one would expect from a regulatory milestone like an ETF approval. The situation presents a complex puzzle for market observers: are whales taking profits after a anticipated rally, redistributing assets, or signaling a longer-term lack of confidence in XRP's price trajectory despite improved accessibility? The convergence of a bullish regulatory development and bearish on-chain activity highlights the nuanced and often contradictory forces that drive cryptocurrency markets, where institutional actions on platforms like Binance can swiftly overshadow broader positive news.
XRP ETF Approval Fails to Stem Whale-Driven Selling Pressure
Despite the landmark approval of an XRP exchange-traded fund, the cryptocurrency continues to face significant selling pressure from large holders. On-chain analytics reveal whale wallets dominating exchange inflows, with institutional-scale transfers flooding Binance.
CryptoQuant data shows 100K-1M XRP and 1M+ XRP wallet bands account for most exchange deposits - volumes incompatible with retail activity. This persistent sell-side pressure suggests institutional players remain unconvinced by the ETF's long-term bullish case.
The market appears caught between two narratives: regulatory progress symbolized by the ETF approval versus the harsh reality of whale distribution. As one trader noted: 'When the tide goes out, you see who's been swimming naked.'
Ethereum Price Prediction: ETH Reclaims $3,000 as Technicals Signal Upside
Ethereum has solidified its footing above the $3,000 threshold, with technical indicators and futures market activity suggesting a potential rally toward $3,420. The resurgence comes as the 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) climbs above 50 for the first time since December 2025—a historically reliable precursor to trend continuation.
Binance Futures data reveals a 12% surge in ETHUSDT open interest within 24 hours, reflecting renewed institutional participation. Funding rates have stabilized NEAR 0.01%, indicating a balanced derivatives market with reduced liquidation risks. ETH's breakout from a descending channel at $2,978 now tests the $3,000-$3,070 resistance zone, with a confirmed close potentially opening the path to $3,400.
Fibonacci retracement levels drawn from October's peak at $3,450 reinforce the bullish case, aligning with tiered upside targets at $3,120, $3,250, and $3,420. Market structure appears increasingly constructive as selling pressure abates.
