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CryptoQuant analyst PelinayPA has drawn attention to a notable shift in XRP derivatives activity, highlighting persistent negative funding rates on Binance as a key signal shaping current market sentiment. In a recent post, he pointed to an unusual combination of heavy short positioning and steady institutional inflows, suggesting that while the broader market leans bearish, larger players may be positioning for a different outcome beneath the surface.
According to his analysis, XRP funding rates on Binance have remained negative for a prolonged period. Moreover, the data shows repeated deep spikes between minus 0.01 and minus 0.02. This pattern indicates that short positions dominate the market, while long traders continue earning funding payments. As a result, bearish sentiment remains firmly established across derivatives markets.
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Meanwhile, XRP price has continued forming lower highs and lower lows, trading near $1.32. This sustained decline reflects ongoing selling pressure across the market. However, the analyst explained that this type of movement does not represent a stable downtrend. Instead, aggressive short positioning appears to drive price action rather than consistent spot selling.
Besides that, recent institutional activity has introduced a conflicting signal into the market structure. During the week of March 23 to 27, XRP exchange-traded products recorded inflows of approximately 2.66 million. Consequently, institutional participants appear to be increasing exposure even as the price continues to weaken. This divergence has raised concerns about how these flows may influence short-term price direction.
Besides that, data from the week of March 23 to 27 showed about 2.66 million in XRP ETF inflows. This signals that institutional investors have turned positive while the price remains under pressure.
Consequently, a clear divergence has emerged between smart money accumulation and broader market positioning. While institutions increase exposure, derivatives traders continue building aggressive short positions. As a result, this structure suggests that institutions may be anticipating a short squeeze in the near term.

Source: CryptoQuant
However, if such a move unfolds, rising prices could force short liquidations across the market, introducing sudden buying pressure that accelerates momentum upward within a short period. At the same time, the analyst noted that such strength may not be sustained for long, as institutional participants could use the resulting liquidity to distribute positions into market demand.
Moreover, this sequence creates a challenging environment for traders navigating short-term price movements, where temporary rallies may fail to hold as selling pressure returns quickly. Additionally, persistent negative funding rates indicate that short dominance remains intact, reinforcing expectations of continued volatility across the market.
XRP funding data reflects strong bearish positioning, while institutional inflows introduce a conflicting signal, suggesting ongoing volatility where short squeezes and distribution may shape near-term price behavior.
The post Alert: XRP Funding Rate on Binance Shows Possible Disturbing Outcome from Institutional Investors – Details appeared first on 36Crypto.