In the protracted legal showdown between the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Ripple, recent developments have raised questions about the SEC’s approach to cryptocurrency regulation and its impact on the market. As the case continues, the fifth-largest cryptocurrency, XRP, experienced a slight decline of 0.04%, partially reversing a 0.36% gain from the previous day, ultimately closing at $0.5050. This legal battle has left many wondering if the SEC’s clandestine crypto regulation is overstepping boundaries, leading to public outrage and calls for transparency.

The SEC’s recent move includes filing a memorandum to expedite the case, signaling its intention to bring the matter to a close. This action by the SEC has sparked concerns among cryptocurrency enthusiasts and investors. Some have questioned whether the SEC, under the leadership of Gary Gensler, is pursuing its regulatory agenda at the expense of the crypto market and its participants.

In response to Ripple’s defense and its bid for an appeal, the SEC submitted a 20-page response advocating for a pause in the case. They argue that it is in the best interest of the court and all parties involved to halt proceedings temporarily. The SEC asserts that Ripple seeks to prolong the case to continue selling XRP.

The core of the SEC’s argument centers on classifying XRP as a security, a pivotal issue with far-reaching implications for the broader crypto market. They contend that Ripple has failed to provide any precedents or cases similar to Howey-related questions that would warrant an interlocutory review.

Furthermore, the SEC pointed to the SEC v. Terraform Labs case, where Judge Rakoff criticized Judge Torres’ ruling, suggesting that Ripple’s case is not unique in facing judicial scrutiny. The SEC maintains that Ripple lacks a genuine “institutional interest in the efficient resolution of this case.”

While Ripple’s defense has emphasized the uncontested nature of the legal facts surrounding XRP, the SEC argues that it is not challenging the facts but rather raising critical legal questions. They justify the request for a pause by citing the need to conserve resources, asserting that it would not substantially harm XRP investors who have already endured years of legal battles.

Critics, however, counter that the SEC’s actions have already had a detrimental impact on XRP investors and are calling for clear and comprehensive crypto regulations in the United States.

As the legal battle unfolds, the uncertainty surrounding XRP’s status casts a shadow over its price. A ruling on the SEC’s appeal motion could influence XRP’s value, possibly dropping below $0.48, though investors hope to avoid a plunge to $0.4322. The outcome of this legal tussle will undoubtedly shape the future of XRP and the broader crypto landscape, making it a pivotal moment for both market participants and regulators.