Ripple's XRP escrow program has a long history, and according to new predictions, it may be nearing its end. Based on current trends, the remaining 36.4 billion XRP could be fully released within six years.
Predictions on XRP Release Timeline
The latest forecast from community member XRPwallets lays out several scenarios for the unblocking of the remaining 36.4 billion XRP. If the current release pace of 300 million XRP per month continues, it is projected that the escrow will run out in approximately 10 years. However, if the release rate increases to 400 million per month starting in 2026, the timeline shrinks to 7.5 years. In a more aggressive case, where the monthly unlock gradually increases by 100 million XRP annually starting in 2026, the escrow could be fully drained in just six years.
Ripple's Strategy for XRP Release
Earlier this week, Ripple completed its July escrow cycle in two stages—unlocking 500 million XRP on July 1 and another 500 million on July 4. Of the total 1 billion XRP unlocked, 700 million was relocked while 300 million is now in circulation, meant for utilities like ODL services, ETPs, and infrastructure development.
Change in Ripple's Approach to Escrow
Experts note that Ripple is changing its approach to the release of XRP, moving away from the previous model of unlocking a fixed amount and locking the rest back. Instead, the company is utilizing XRP when the market is ready and there is demand for the product.
In conclusion, despite the current release volumes and confirmed strategic changes, accurately predicting when Ripple will fully release its escrow program remains complex. However, the new forecasts offer a variety of scenarios and opportunities in this process.
