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After more than four years of legal tension, the long-running case between Ripple Labs and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has officially come to an end. In a major legal development, the SEC withdrew its appeal unconditionally, leading to a final $50 million settlement—a significant reduction from the original $125 million penalty.
This conclusion marks a notable legal victory for Ripple, as it brings long-awaited regulatory clarity regarding the sale of XRP on public exchanges.
SEC Backs Down, Ripple Moves Forward
The turning point in the case began when Judge Analisa Torres of the Southern District of New York ruled that XRP’s sale on exchanges did not violate federal securities laws. This judgment challenged the SEC’s stance and laid the foundation for Ripple’s legal momentum.
Earlier this week, the SEC agreed to drop its appeal efforts, signaling a broader shift in its legal strategy. In response, Ripple withdrew its own cross-appeal, bringing an end to any ongoing proceedings or court appearances.
Settlement Terms: $75M Waived, $50M to Be Paid
Although Ripple had been facing a $125 million penalty, the recent agreement reduces that obligation to just $50 million. According to Stuart Alderoty, Ripple’s Chief Legal Officer, the company has agreed to pay this amount and will not contest the decision. The payment, currently held in interest-bearing escrow, will now be finalized.
This outcome not only provides Ripple with financial relief, but also clears the way for operational stability and renewed investor confidence.
Ripple Spent Over $150M Fighting the Case
In a March 25 post on X, journalist Eleanor Terrett reported that Ripple’s legal expenses ranged between $150 million and $200 million over the course of the litigation. The SEC is also believed to have spent a substantial amount in the process. Despite the high cost, Ripple has emerged with increased legal clarity and a strategic advantage in the U.S. crypto market.
According to Turkish NY Radio, the conclusion of this high-profile lawsuit could have far-reaching implications for the broader crypto industry, particularly in how regulatory bodies approach token classifications and legal enforcement moving forward.
