Ripple Labs and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) have filed a joint motion in court aiming to settle the ongoing lawsuit concerning the XRP project. This motion carries significant implications for both Ripple and the broader cryptocurrency market.
Background and History of the Lawsuit
The SEC initiated the lawsuit against Ripple in 2020, accusing the company of unregistered sales of XRP tokens amounting to $1.3 billion. In April 2025, Ripple and the SEC paused appeals to negotiate a resolution. A partial ruling had already imposed a penalty of $125 million.
Contents of the Joint Motion
The joint motion was filed on June 12, 2025. Ripple and the SEC cited 'exceptional circumstances' and 'changing regulatory attitudes.' They proposed splitting the penalty, with $50 million going to the SEC and the remaining $75 million intended to be returned to Ripple upon court approval. This reflects a mutual desire to conclude litigation.
Market Impact and Industry Reactions
The court filing could influence XRP's market position by removing legal uncertainties surrounding the token. A favorable resolution may enhance XRP's liquidity and market confidence. Analysts observe potential increases in trading volumes and improved sentiment toward digital assets. Industry reactions highlight the mutual benefits of avoiding prolonged litigation.
The Ripple and SEC joint motion marks a crucial step toward resolving legal issues related to XRP. A favorable outcome could lead to significant changes for both Ripple and the entire crypto industry, fostering clearer regulatory guidelines in the future.