Ripple CEO Slams SEC’s Hypocrisy Amidst Ongoing XRP Legal Battle

• In a recent turn of events, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has openly rebuked the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for what he terms “hypocrisy” in its regulatory actions.
• This criticism follows the SEC’s recent maneuver in the legal battle against Binance, where the commission aims to amend its complaint involving “Third Party Crypto Asset Securities.”
• Garlinghouse’s comments were particularly pointed on social media, where he highlighted inconsistencies and confusion within the SEC’s approach to crypto regulations.

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse Criticizes SEC’s Inconsistent Crypto Regulation

Ripple CEO Takes a Stand Against SEC Hypocrisy

Brad Garlinghouse, Ripple’s CEO, has criticized the SEC for its inconsistent application of rules in the crypto sector. This is not the first instance where regulatory actions have sparked controversy. Garlinghouse’s condemnation comes after the SEC sought to amend its complaint in the ongoing lawsuit against Binance. The SEC’s stance categorized several cryptocurrencies, such as Solana, Cardano, and Polygon, as securities.

A Closer Look at the Binance Lawsuit

The SEC’s move to amend its complaint followed a court’s minute order on July 9, 2024. The amendment pertains to “Third Party Crypto Asset Securities” cited in opposition to Binance’s motion to dismiss. In essence, the SEC’s litigation suggests an evolving interpretation of existing financial regulations, leaving many in the crypto community questioning the consistency and clarity of the regulatory framework.

Impact on Ripple and Broader Crypto Market

Ripple’s legal entanglement with the SEC dates back to 2020, focusing on allegations that Ripple raised funds through XRP sales without proper registration as a security. This case is pivotal as it could delineate the SEC’s jurisdictional reach over digital assets. Last year, Judge Analisa Torres ruled that XRP sales to retail investors on exchanges did not constitute investment contracts, signaling a setback for the SEC.

Garlinghouse’s Outspokenness and Future Implications

Garlinghouse has been vocal on social media, stressing the regulatory ambiguity and suggesting political motives behind SEC’s actions. He tweeted about the inconsistency stating, “More evidence of SEC hypocrisy. Chair Gensler testifies the rules are clear, yet his SEC can’t figure them out and applies them haphazardly, festering more industry confusion.” This rhetoric accentuates the broader industry discontent with the SEC’s oversight approach.

What’s Next for Ripple?

Despite the ongoing legal battles, Garlinghouse remains optimistic about reaching a resolution soon. In a recent Bloomberg interview, he expressed confidence in the judicial process, albeit with caution regarding the timeline. He mentioned, “The ruling has been clear from the judge, we expect resolution very soon, but can’t predict when the judge will rule there.”

Conclusion

Brad Garlinghouse’s recent criticisms of the SEC have brought significant attention to the regulatory uncertainties facing the crypto industry. As the Ripple case progresses, the outcomes will likely have substantial implications for the regulatory landscape. For now, the crypto community watches closely, anticipating further developments and hoping for greater regulatory clarity and consistency.