The legal battle between Ripple 
$1 and the SEC is making headlines once again. Legal experts suggest that the U.S. regulator’s approach may shift, potentially affecting the outcome of the lawsuit. The uncertainty led by the SEC indicates changes in the approach toward cryptocurrency lawsuits. However, despite speculation that the case might resolve following Donald Trump’s electoral victory, no definitive developments have emerged yet.
SEC’s Decision on Coinbase Case
Pro-XRP attorney James Murphy highlighted the SEC’s decision not to oppose Coinbase‘s appeal. This stance contradicts the previous approach under former President Gary Gensler. Murphy believes that if the Second Circuit Court accepts the appeal, the SEC may end the case without ruling on whether cryptocurrencies can be classified as securities on secondary exchanges.
This sudden change in the SEC’s stance and the emergence of a crypto-friendly administration raises expectations that the Ripple case may follow a similar trajectory. If the SEC’s approach softens, the case could either end in a settlement or be dropped altogether. Moreover, Trump’s meeting with Ripple’s CEO might signal that the tough days for the blockchain company are behind them. Ripple’s political donations are also seen as a significant factor in resolving the case.
Will the SEC Abandon Cryptocurrency Cases?
The leadership of the SEC may play a critical role in this process. Murphy noted that the current SEC chair has not been confirmed by the U.S. Senate, and a new appointment is expected in March or April. This appointment could change the SEC’s perspective on cryptocurrency cases. The Trump administration’s candidate, Paul Atkins, is emerging as a less controversial choice.
However, SEC commissioners Hester Peirce and Mark Uyeda retain decision-making power, meaning lawsuits may continue until a new chairman is appointed. Therefore, a decision regarding the Ripple case may be anticipated. Currently, the case is ongoing, but April could prove to be a pivotal moment that alters its trajectory.
