The cryptocurrency ETF landscape is showing dynamic shifts, with new predictions for XRP products and a notable reversal in Ethereum fund flows. According to analysis from AI models like Google's Gemini and ChatGPT, there is a moderate to high likelihood that asset management giant BlackRock will launch a spot XRP exchange-traded fund (ETF) later in 2026.
The prediction is based on a changed regulatory and competitive environment. Gemini's analysis points out that the "regulatory blockers that previously kept conservative giants like BlackRock on the sidelines have largely been removed." This shift is underscored by the resolution of the long-running legal battle between Ripple and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in August, which clarified that XRP is not a security when sold on secondary markets.
The AI models argue that BlackRock may be motivated by a fear of missing out, as competitors have already established a market. Since the first spot XRP ETF, XRPC by Canary Capital, launched on November 13, four other companies have followed. As of January 9, the combined assets under management (AUM) for these five funds—Canary Capital (XRPC), Bitwise (XRP), Franklin Templeton (XRPZ), Grayscale (GXRP), and 21 Shares (TOXR)—stands at approximately $1.5 billion, demonstrating clear institutional demand.
In a parallel development, U.S. spot Ethereum ETFs snapped a concerning outflow trend on January 12. Data from analytics firm TraderT shows these funds attracted a net inflow of $5.27 million, marking their first positive day after four consecutive trading sessions of net redemptions.
The aggregate figure, however, masks a dramatic divergence among issuers. Grayscale's Ethereum Trust (ETHE) led with a substantial inflow of $50.67 million, and its lower-fee Grayscale Mini ETH product pulled in an additional $29.28 million. Conversely, BlackRock's iShares Ethereum Trust (ETHA) experienced a significant outflow of $79.65 million, while the 21Shares Core Ethereum ETF (CETH) saw a modest $4.97 million inflow. This highlights intense competition where fee structures and product offerings drive capital allocation.
Analysts note that sustained net inflows into spot ETFs create direct buying pressure on the underlying asset, as authorized participants must acquire ETH to back new shares. This reversal is seen as a potential signal of shifting investor sentiment toward Ethereum.
