Ripple has introduced a significant change to its regular XRP distribution program, releasing a total of 1 billion XRP from its escrow account on May 3rd, 2025. This unexpected shift sparked conversations across various market segments due to the altered timing and method compared to the previously established monthly release plan starting in 2017. 3 separate transactions of 500 million, 300 million, and 200 million XRP were conducted, totaling approximately $2.2 billion at the time of transfer. This move breaks from Ripple’s long-standing routine of unlocking funds on the first day of every month. 2 days later than planned, the release occurred in a significant development for XRP.