Ripple has officially ended its legal battle with the SEC by dropping its cross-appeal and agreeing to a final $50 million settlement. This marks the end of a years-long case that defined crypto regulation in the U.S.

Ripple drops cross-appeal, SEC retains partial fine

Both parties agree to end litigation and close one of crypto’s biggest legal battles

Ripple’s chief legal officer Stuart Alderoty confirmed via X that the company has withdrawn its appeal after the SEC dropped its own last week. As part of the final deal, Ripple will pay $50 million out of the original $125 million fine, with the rest returned to the company from escrow. This effectively concludes a case that began in December 2020.

SEC shifts tone under new leadership

Pro-innovation stance replaces aggressive enforcement

The SEC’s decision to end the case reflects a broader change in regulatory attitude. Since the departure of former Chair Gary Gensler, the agency has dropped multiple high-profile lawsuits, including against Coinbase and Kraken. Interim Chair Mark Uyeda has promoted dialogue, while the Crypto Task Force—now led by Commissioner Hester Peirce—has launched industry roundtables.

Final steps pending Commission vote

Settlement must be ratified through formal SEC process

Although both parties have agreed to terms, the deal requires final approval from the Commission and procedural completion in court. Once done, Judge Analisa Torres is expected to lift the injunction imposed on Ripple. Legal observers believe the vote is a formality and that the resolution signals closure.

Ripple sees momentum despite long legal fight

XRP’s position in crypto markets stabilizes post-settlement

The news has injected fresh optimism into the XRP ecosystem. Market analysts believe the resolution removes a significant overhang for Ripple and XRP, potentially paving the way for institutional adoption. Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has previously hinted at ambitions to rival SWIFT in cross-border payments.

Crypto regulation enters new chapter

SEC now focused on clarity and cooperation

The case’s conclusion fits a broader narrative: the U.S. crypto regulatory landscape is undergoing transformation. Trump’s expected SEC Chair nominee Paul Atkins is seen as crypto-friendly, and regulators are now prioritizing engagement over enforcement. Industry insiders anticipate a friendlier environment for digital asset innovation in the months ahead.