Over the past year, nearly 3 billion XRP has been released into circulation due to Ripple's scheduled actions and whale investor activities. Let’s examine how this affected the market.
Increase in XRP Circulation
Approximately **3 billion XRP** has entered circulation, primarily due to [Ripple's scheduled unlocks](https://www.statista.com/statistics/1551638/number-of-xrp-in-circulation/) and whale activity over the past year. **Ripple Labs** and major holders of XRP, known as whales, have significantly influenced the supply increase.
Market Impact and Pricing
The surge in **XRP supply** influences the market, prompting shifts in trading behavior and price dynamics. Notably, XRP prices evidenced **resilience** amid increased supply.
> "The accumulation driven by whales suggests deliberate price support and long-term conviction from large holders." CITE_NA
This activity presents **economic implications** that include potential price stabilization efforts by large holders, aimed at supporting XRP's market value in competitive sectors.
Regulatory Environment and Its Implications
These actions resonate within the XRP ecosystem without major spillover to other cryptocurrencies like **BTC** and **ETH**. Historical patterns coupled with current market data suggest potential for **long-term price support** from whales. The regulatory landscape continues to be underscored by the **SEC's ongoing case** with Ripple.
In conclusion, the increase of XRP circulation by 3 billion holds significant implications for the market and pricing. Whale activities are likely to provide price support, despite challenges and uncertainties in the regulatory landscape.
