XRP News Today: Ripple Ends SEC Legal Battle Accepting $125 Million Penalty XRP Price Jumps 3%

Ripple Labs, Inc. and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) have concluded their protracted legal dispute over XRP, with both parties agreeing to drop all appeals. This resolution was officially confirmed by Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse on June 27, 2025, marking the end of a significant chapter in the cryptocurrency industry's regulatory landscape.

The decision to drop the appeals comes after Judge Analisa Torres rejected a joint request from Ripple and the SEC to lower Ripple’s fine to $50 million and lift the permanent ban on its institutional XRP sales. The judge's refusal to alter the original judgment left both parties with the choice to either proceed with appeals or conclude the case. Ripple chose to end the case with the final ruling, accepting a $125 million civil penalty.

This legal battle, which began in December 2020, centered around the SEC's accusation that Ripple raised $1.3 billion through unregistered sales of XRP. Ripple countered by asserting that XRP is a digital asset, not a security. In July 2023, Judge Torres ruled that XRP is not a security in and of itself but found Ripple guilty of securities violations in its institutional sales, resulting in the $125 million penalty. The SEC filed an appeal in January 2025, aiming to reverse parts of the earlier decision, and Ripple also filed a cross-appeal. In May, both sides proposed a tentative $50 million settlement following new SEC leadership, but the judge rejected their request, leaving the original penalties in place.

With the legal battle concluded, Ripple can now focus on its strategic goals, particularly on building the "Internet of Value," as emphasized by Garlinghouse. The court’s decision that XRP is not a security in the open market remains unchanged, providing Ripple with a clear path to expand its operations and potentially see increased adoption and partnerships with financial institutions. This resolution also paves the way for a spot XRP ETF entering the U.S. market, further boosting the utility and value of XRP.

The market responded positively to the news, with XRP experiencing a 3% price increase following the announcement. This price movement indicates market confidence in the resolution and the potential for XRP's future growth. The legal clarity provided by this settlement allows Ripple to shift its focus towards technological innovations and expanding market utilities, potentially influencing broader regulatory frameworks affecting cryptocurrencies.

Ripple's acceptance of the $125 million civil penalty reflects the ending of legal uncertainties impacting XRP. The resolution of this lawsuit is expected to have a significant impact on Ripple's market positioning and its ability to pursue its strategic goals. The decision marks a pivotal moment in regulatory proceedings within the crypto industry, with significant attention turning to Ripple's strategic direction post-lawsuit.