Selling Pressure Intensifies on XRP; Accumulation Phase Unlikely Ahead of Jan 2026 Escrow Release
Selling pressure on XRP has surged after a sharp correction from about $3.66 to ~$1.85, driven by rising exchange inflows—notably to Binance—interpreted as intent to sell. Since December 15 daily inflows rose significantly, peaking at 116 million XRP on December 19, with typical recent ranges of 35M–116M XRP. The data suggest profit-taking from older positions and capitulation by recent buyers, weakening conditions for accumulation. XRP is down across timeframes (24h: -0.24%, 7d: -3.62%, 1M: -15.71% per CoinMarketCap). A scheduled escrow unlock on January 1, 2026 could release up to 1 billion XRP; Ripple historically re-locks 60%–80% and says releases are priced in, but visible supply events may still weigh on sentiment. For traders: expect continued sell-side pressure to challenge short-term accumulation and increase the risk of a deeper correction unless inflows subside or demand visibly picks up.
Bearish
The article highlights clear on-chain signals of increased sell-side activity—sharp rise in exchange inflows (especially to Binance) and elevated daily transfer volumes—which historically correlate with downward price pressure as tokens move to exchanges to be sold. The 50% correction from the cycle high and negative returns across 24h/7d/1M confirm a weakening trend. An imminent large escrow unlock (up to 1 billion XRP) adds a scheduled supply event; even if Ripple re-locks a portion, visible releases can amplify selling sentiment. Comparable past events: prior large exchange inflows around cycle peaks and visible supply unlocks (escrow/treasury sales) have preceded extended corrections in altcoins. Short-term impact: increased volatility and downside risk—traders should expect challenges to accumulation, potential stop-loss cascades, and lower support validation until inflows subside or demand rebounds. Long-term impact: if selling is absorbed and Ripple continues to lock a significant share of releases while adoption or positive fundamentals improve, price could stabilise — but present conditions favor further downside risk until turnover normalises.