Ripple is set to execute its fourth monthly escrow release of 1 billion XRP in April 2026, adhering to its established escrow protocol which automatically unlocks a predetermined number of tokens at the beginning of each month. Historical analyses reveal that a substantial portion of these unlocked tokens is generally returned to escrow rather than entering circulation.
In early 2026, recent cycles illustrate this trend. For example, in March, approximately 700 million XRP was re-locked into escrow shortly after its release, resulting in only around 300 million XRP remaining available for use. A similar pattern was noted in both January and February.
Data indicates that Ripple has consistently re-escrowed between 60% and 80% of the XRP released monthly. Consequently, this practice translates to an operational retention of roughly 200 million to 400 million XRP each month. These retained tokens are utilized for various purposes, such as bolstering liquidity for cross-border payments, funding strategic partnerships, and fostering growth within the XRP ecosystem.
Ripple’s escrow program, initiated in 2017, aims to provide predictability and transparency regarding the cryptocurrency’s supply chain. By locking billions of tokens into time-coded contracts and subsequently re-locking any unused amounts, Ripple has succeeded in ensuring a controlled and gradual issuance of XRP, averting significant spikes in circulating supply.
Crucially, not all XRP that is retained post-unlock is immediately offloaded onto the open market. A considerable quantity is deployed strategically, implying that the actual selling pressure on the market might be lower than the raw numbers suggest.
In terms of price performance, analysts predict that this upcoming escrow release may have limited impact on XRP’s market value. Previous historical releases have shown minimal to no significant effect, as market participants tend to factor in these events in advance.
At the time of reporting, XRP was trading at $1.45, reflecting a nearly 4% increase. Its current price dynamics suggest a test of the 50-day simple moving average, which denotes a temporary equilibrium but lacks clear momentum. Additionally, XRP remains significantly under the 200-day average of $2.14, suggesting an ongoing bearish trend.
The 14-day relative strength index is reported at 50.69, indicating neutral market conditions with neither overbought nor oversold pressures present.
