Whales are shifting the narrative of the crypto market, as XRP and Cardano (ADA) both display 2 different accumulation patterns. XRP's biggest holders have now surpassed $1.1 billion in accumulated holdings, signaling strengthening institutional confidence as the market approaches potential discussions for an ETF. In contrast, ADA whales are apparently trimming exposure after weeks of sideways trading.
This divergence shows how institutional players are positioning themselves for 2025, quietly managing portfolios as volatility cools. Analysts describe it as a phase of transition, in which the process of strategic accumulation replaces speculation.
XRP Whales Accelerate Accumulation Amid ETF Buzz
XRP's whale accumulation has increased dramatically in the last few weeks, with holdings of just over $1.1 billion. The buying trend is supported by speculation surrounding a potential XRP exchange-traded fund (ETF), which has increased institutional interest. Analysts pointed out that this behavior is consistent with past cycles in which whales have accumulated large positions just before major liquidity events.
Retail investors remain cautious, but whales are quietly positioning themselves for a potential rally. Their steady inflows point to confidence in the long-term fundamentals of XRP and expectations of clearer regulations on the horizon. This type of buying, associated with low volatility, is often the start of accumulation zones that precede strong recoveries.
The ETF speculation has increased optimism and opened the door for institutional repositioning. Whales continue to add on dips, suggesting preparing for a future change in market sentiment.
ADA Whales Trim Holdings as Market Consolidates
Cardano’s whale activity is the opposite. On-chain data shows that wallets with one to ten million ADA have reduced their holdings from about 5.55 billion to 5.49 billion ADA in the last week. Analysts interpret this as controlled distribution in a period of weak demand.
The move indicates caution among the large holders, many of whom used the minor rebounds to trim exposure rather than to add. This activity has kept ADA trading within a narrow range of consolidation, where buying pressure at the lower band is still meeting selling strength near resistance.
Analysts say these outflows are not necessarily bearish but rather an exercise of portfolio balancing as whales reduce risk before reentering at more favorable conditions. Cardano's fundamentals, such as staking rewards and developer engagement, are still strong, which supports the argument that this phase is more strategic than reactionary.
Market Outlook
The mixed whale activity across XRP and ADA highlights how large investors are positioning ahead of 2025’s next cycle. XRP whales continue to accumulate, anticipating higher liquidity and regulatory clarity. ADA holders, meanwhile, appear to be rebalancing — an approach that often signals disciplined positioning rather than exit behavior.
Institutional accumulation typically precedes broader recoveries, suggesting that the groundwork for an uptrend is already forming beneath the surface.
The information presented in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as investment advice. The cryptocurrency market is highly volatile and may involve significant risks. We recommend conducting your own analysis.