Ripple $2 Labs CEO Brad Garlinghouse has recently attracted significant media and social media attention. His interview on the 60 Minutes program, along with comments from former U.S. SEC enforcement official John Reed Stark, sparked widespread discussion.
Garlinghouse Responds to Allegations
Garlinghouse referred to John Reed Stark as a “Gensler Shill,” arguing that Stark’s statements during the 60 Minutes program omitted crucial details. He pointed out that the media failed to report on the critical federal court ruling affirming that XRP is not a security.
The court distinguished between institutional sales of XRP Coin, which are deemed investment contracts/securities, and individual purchases on exchanges, which do not fall under this classification. Following the ruling, U.S.-based cryptocurrency exchanges regained the opportunity to relist XRP Coin.
Anticipated Changes at the SEC
Garlinghouse welcomed the nomination of Paul Atkins, appointed by new President Donald Trump to lead the SEC in January. This change is expected to shift the SEC’s stance towards being more pro-crypto.
Brad Garlinghouse:
“John, you may not know Gensler, but your statements closely mirrored his talking points. Such blatant falsehoods reflect Gensler’s views.”
The Ripple CEO emphasized that addressing crypto assets is not the core issue for society; instead, he suggested that the SEC’s stringent oversight of crypto markets is the real concern. He agreed with John Reed Stark about the necessity to end all enforcement actions.
Trump’s commitment to uphold promises after witnessing support from crypto investors, along with appointing crypto-friendly figures in key positions, is seen as a positive sign for the markets. Given Trump’s influence in the Senate and House of Representatives, he can readily fulfill regulatory clarity related to cryptocurrencies.
The perspectives of Ripple’s executives highlight the ongoing vigorous debates within the cryptocurrency sector. The company’s criticisms of the SEC and its campaign support could substantially impact future regulations.
Garlinghouse’s critiques and the company’s policies continue to resonate significantly within the crypto world. The responses from regulatory bodies and industry leaders will play a crucial role in shaping the sector’s direction.