The transition in SEC leadership, with Paul Atkins set to replace Gary Gensler, has reignited optimism that Ripple’s prolonged legal battle over XRP could conclude in 2025.
The Trump administration’s pro-crypto stance is seen as a turning point, sparking hopes for a favorable resolution.
Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse expressed enthusiasm about working with the new SEC leadership, fueling speculation that the case could be dismissed or settled. Legal analyst Jeremy Hogan has suggested a potential resolution by April or May, though procedural requirements could extend the timeline. Despite this, many anticipate the lawsuit’s conclusion is imminent, bringing regulatory clarity to XRP.
The SEC, under its current administration, is expected to make a final push before the leadership transition. With a January 15 deadline for filing an opening brief, the agency may try to influence the case’s trajectory. However, the incoming pro-crypto leadership is expected to create a more favorable environment for Ripple.
A positive outcome could pave the way for XRP ETF approvals, with issuers like Bitwise and Canary Capital awaiting regulatory clarity. Such a resolution would likely bolster institutional interest and solidify XRP’s position in the financial sector, marking a significant milestone for Ripple and the broader cryptocurrency market.
Coinbase’s CEO, Brian Armstrong, announced the company’s plans to expand its workforce in the U.S. by hiring 1,000 new employees this year.
Changpeng Zhao, the founder of Binance, has voiced his concerns over the growing trend of quick-profit hunting in the cryptocurrency world, particularly among speculative investors, or “degens.”
Chris Larsen, the co-founder of Ripple, suffered a significant financial blow in 2024 when he lost over $661 million worth of XRP due to a security breach in the password management system LastPass.
BBVA has made a significant move into the cryptocurrency space, gaining approval from Spain’s securities regulator, CNMV, to offer Bitcoin and Ether trading.