XRP Underperforms Broader Crypto Market Despite Rising ETF Demand

XRP declined about 5% last week, trailing Bitcoin, Ether and Solana, which each posted gains during the same period.

The payments-oriented token slipped to approximately $1.03, while BTC, ETH and SOL rose between 1% and 4%. Meanwhile, the broader cryptocurrency market expanded 1.4%, taking its total capitalization to around $2.19 trillion.

XRP’s decline is notable given that XRP-focused ETFs continued to register net inflows for a fourth consecutive week. However, the pace of investment has weakened considerably, with inflows dropping roughly 93% week over week to about $1 million, according to SoSoValue. Bitcoin and Ether ETFs, meanwhile, attracted hundreds of millions of dollars.

Several market observers have attributed XRP’s lackluster performance to a combination of factors. Regulatory uncertainty remains a major issue, particularly after the U.S. Senate postponed debate over the CLARITY Act. The legislation is widely regarded as important for establishing clearer regulatory treatment for XRP and potentially expanding institutional participation. A vote is not expected until at least mid-September.

Current ETF flow data suggests that buyers and sellers remain relatively balanced.

Iliya Kalchev, an analyst at Nexo, said XRP continues to show signs of patient positioning. He noted that large orders remain present even though trading-volume indicators have moved toward neutral levels, describing the pattern as “quiet absorption” rather than capitulation or a confirmed breakout.

Despite its recent weakness, XRP continues to attract positive long-term forecasts.

Jake Claver, a qualified family office professional and chairman of Digital Ascension Group, believes the token could eventually take on a larger role within the global financial system.

Claver said XRP appears increasingly likely to establish itself as a global bridge asset and could potentially receive a tier-one classification from the Bank for International Settlements (BIS), which applies the designation to highly liquid and stable assets that banks can hold.