Judge Analisa Torres ruled that regardless of SEC regulatory shifts, Ripple must comply with federal securities laws.
The U.S. District Court rejected a joint motion by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Ripple seeking an indicative ruling to reduce the $125 million civil penalty and rescind the order classifying XRP sales to institutional investors as securities transactions under Section 5 of the Securities Act.
Key Developments in the Ripple-SEC Case
Indicative Ruling Denied:
- Judge Torres refused to modify prior rulings, including the $125 million penalty, aligning them with federal securities laws.
- The court emphasized Ripple’s history of "pushing boundaries" justified the original penalties.
SEC’s Dropped Appeal:
- On March 19, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse announced the SEC withdrew its appeal, calling it a "major victory" for the crypto industry.
Both parties filed a motion to release $125 million in escrowed funds:
- $50 million (discounted penalty) to the SEC.
- $75 million returned to Ripple pending court approval.
Legal Implications:
- The case sets a precedent for how crypto asset sales are classified under U.S. securities law.
- Torres underscored that only Congress or appellate courts—not district courts—could alter statutory penalties.
FAQs
Q: Why did Judge Torres uphold the $125 million penalty?
A: She found Ripple’s actions violated federal securities laws, and reducing penalties would undermine regulatory consistency.
Q: What happens to the escrowed funds now?
A: $50 million goes to the SEC; $75 million returns to Ripple if approved by the court.
Q: Is this case fully resolved?
A: While major appeals are dropped, the crypto community continues monitoring for broader implications.
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