XRP, the cryptocurrency associated with Ripple, has been consistently outperforming Ethereum in terms of price performance for five consecutive months, setting a new record in the battle between the two digital assets. Market statistics presented in the form of a heat map of monthly returns highlight this unprecedented achievement, with XRP surpassing ETH for the longest duration in history.
The monthly performance data reveals significant gains for XRP compared to ETH, particularly in January, March, and April of 2025. Crypto analyst Dom has pointed out the historical importance of this performance streak and raised questions about how long XRP can maintain its price advantage over Ethereum. The anomaly in the relationship between the two assets is evident in the monthly returns chart, with some experts speculating that XRP could reach $45 if it follows the pattern from 2017.
The anticipated approval and launch of XRP exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are believed to be driving the asset’s sustained outperformance against Ethereum. Industry experts suggest that the potential introduction of several XRP ETFs is generating significant demand for the cryptocurrency ahead of regulatory developments. These ETF products are likened to “big vacuum cleaners” by some analysts, as they absorb XRP from the market by storing it with a reliable custodian each time an investor purchases a position in an ETF.
Approximately 18 ETF products are currently in development, with rumors swirling about BlackRock, a massive asset management firm with trillions under management, potentially introducing an XRP ETF. The involvement of such large players in the market could further fuel the trend of XRP’s relative strength. The improving regulatory environment for XRP, especially in areas like market infrastructure and stablecoins, is creating a scenario where both investors and commercial users are vying for the limited supply of the cryptocurrency.
As regulatory clarity for XRP is expected to improve in the coming months, businesses are preparing to integrate the digital asset into their operational models. Market makers and payment providers are realizing that the increasing demand from ETF investors is continuously pushing up prices, creating an economic incentive for commercial users to secure their XRP supply sooner rather than later. This trend is reflected in the monthly performance data, indicating a potential accumulation pattern that may already be underway.
Overall, the current momentum surrounding XRP, fueled by the anticipation of ETF approvals and regulatory advancements, is shaping a bullish outlook for the cryptocurrency compared to Ethereum. The potential for significant price increases, driven by institutional involvement and increasing demand from both investors and commercial users, highlights the growing prominence of XRP in the cryptocurrency market. As the competition between XRP and Ethereum continues, all eyes are on how long XRP can maintain its performance streak and whether it can reach new highs in the near future.
