- The SEC may soon pause its legal appeal against Ripple due to recent regulatory shifts, including a settlement with Binance and the reassignment of a key crypto litigator.
- Legal experts predict the case could conclude before the approval of a spot XRP ETF, signaling a potential resolution in the near future.
The long-running legal battle between Ripple and the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) may soon take an unexpected turn. Speculations are growing that the SEC might pause its appeal against Ripple, raising hopes for a possible resolution in the near future. Recent regulatory shifts and legal settlements indicate that big changes could be on the way.
Why a Pause Might Be Imminent
Former SEC employee John Reed Stark has suggested that the Commission could soon halt all crypto-related appeals, including the Ripple case. He points to the recent agreement between the SEC and Binance as a precedent. Earlier this month, both parties requested a 60-day pause in their legal battle, allowing time for reassessment and potential extensions.
This development has sparked discussions among legal experts, with Fox Business journalist Eleanor Terrett noting that similar pauses could extend to other non-fraud cases, such as those involving Coinbase and Kraken.
Another key factor is the SEC’s internal shake-up. Stark highlighted the transfer of Jorge Tenreiro—one of the agency’s top crypto litigators—to the computer systems department. Tenreiro played a crucial role in the SEC’s legal actions against major crypto firms, including Ripple, Coinbase, and Binance. His sudden reassignment suggests a shift in priorities within the regulatory body.
Could a Settlement Be Near?
Attorney Jeremy Hogan has also weighed in on the potential resolution of the Ripple v. SEC case. He believes the lawsuit could conclude before the approval of a spot XRP exchange-traded fund (ETF). Hogan argues that while the ETF process involves meticulous regulatory steps, the Ripple case is moving toward a faster resolution.
With companies like Grayscale, WisdomTree, Bitwise, and 21Shares preparing for an XRP ETF, the approval odds remain high. Polymarket estimates a 78% chance that the SEC will approve an XRP ETF before the end of 2025. If Hogan’s prediction holds true, the legal battle could end sooner than expected, clearing the path for such financial products.
The Road Ahead
While no official confirmation has been given, the signs are becoming harder to ignore. A pause or even a withdrawal of the SEC’s appeal would mark a significant turning point for Ripple and the broader cryptocurrency industry. Whether this leads to a settlement or a complete dismissal remains uncertain, but for now, optimism is growing among crypto enthusiasts and investors alike.
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