XRP Lawyer Bill Morgan Criticizes SEC: Questions $2B Ripple Settlement

Maxwell Mutuma
April 21, 2024 Updated April 22, 2024
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US SEC to Appeal XRP Secondary Sales In Ripple Lawsuit, Says Ex-SEC

Highlights

  • Bill Morgan criticizes SEC's demand for $2 billion from Ripple Labs, questioning the rationale behind the hefty settlement.
  • Morgan suggests that a potential loss for Coinbase in its interlocutory appeal could strengthen the SEC's position in the XRP case.
  • John Deaton's request to represent Coinbase customers as amici counsel.

In an X post, pro-XRP lawyer Bill Morgan criticized the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). This is after the SEC requested Ripple Labs pay $2 billion to the regulatory watchdog to settle the ongoing legal battle of XRP vs. SEC. As per Morgan, it makes no sense that a company that largely successfully defended a lawsuit should cut a check for $2 billion to the other party.

Following Morgan’s critique, the XRP community engaged in discussions regarding the SEC’s request for Ripple Labs to pay $2 billion. Notably, a user identified as @XRP4FREEDOM voiced a different perspective, proposing that Ripple’s CEO, Brad Garlinghouse, and Chief Legal Officer, Stuart Alderoty, should consider paying the settlement to halt further legal actions by the SEC. The user questioned the risk associated with prolonging the legal battle, especially in light of Coinbase’s recent move to seek an interlocutory appeal.

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Ripple’s XRP Case Tied to Coinbase Appeal

Coinbase, a prominent cryptocurrency exchange, has intensified its legal battle against the SEC by filing a brief to pursue an interlocutory appeal. This appeal challenges the SEC’s interpretation of an “investment contract.” It aims to seek judicial clarity on whether digital assets, such as cryptocurrencies, can be classified as investment contracts in the absence of an underlying contract. The outcome of this appeal is anticipated to have significant implications for the regulatory landscape of cryptocurrencies in the United States.

This development has drawn attention from market enthusiasts and traders alike, with many closely monitoring the proceedings between Coinbase and the SEC. Bill Morgan, the XRP lawyer, commented on Coinbase interlocutory appeal, suggesting that a loss for Coinbase could bolster the SEC’s position in the ongoing XRP programmatic sales case. This case revolves around the SEC’s assertion that XRP’s programmatic sales constitute investment contracts, a stance challenged by Ripple Labs.

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Deaton Advocates for Coinbase Customers in SEC Case

An attorney, John Deaton, recently submitted a request to serve as amici counsel on behalf of 4,701 Coinbase customers in the legal dispute between Coinbase and the SEC. Deaton’s move aligns with Coinbase’s objective to seek clarity on the classification of digital assets as investment contracts. By representing a significant number of Coinbase customers, Deaton aims to contribute to the ongoing discourse surrounding the regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies and investment contracts.

Read Also: New Emails Reveal Satoshi Nakamoto’s Early Vision for Bitcoin

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Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
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Why Trust CoinGape

CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights Read more…to our readers. Our journal analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.

About Author
About Author
Maxwell is a crypto-economic analyst and Blockchain enthusiast, passionate about helping people understand the potential of decentralized technology. I write extensively on topics such as blockchain, cryptocurrency, tokens, and more for many publications. My goal is to spread knowledge about this revolutionary technology and its implications for economic freedom and social good.
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.