The Ripple vs. SEC case has become a defining moment in the history of cryptocurrency regulation, with its prolonged duration leaving many wondering why it hasn’t reached a resolution like other high-profile cases. As the legal battle continues, it’s essential to understand the key factors driving this saga and what it means for the future of crypto.
A Complex Legal Landscape At its core, the Ripple case revolves around whether XRP, Ripple’s native cryptocurrency, should be classified as a security. The SEC argues that Ripple’s past sales of XRP constituted unregistered securities offerings, while Ripple maintains that XRP is a commodity, akin to Bitcoin or Ethereum.
In July 2023, Judge Analisa Torres delivered a mixed ruling: XRP is not a security when sold programmatically on exchanges (retail sales), but institutional sales did violate securities laws. This partial victory for Ripple has led to both sides appealing different aspects of the decision