In a striking twist that underscores the shifting dynamics between regulators and the digital asset industry, Ripple might settle its remaining fine with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) using XRP, the very token at the heart of their legal battle. This update adds a symbolic layer to what may soon be remembered as one of the most pivotal regulatory clashes in crypto history. A Look Back: Ripple vs. the SEC The legal drama began in December 2020 when the SEC filed a lawsuit against Ripple Labs Inc., alleging that the company had conducted an unregistered securities offering by selling XRP tokens worth over $1.3 billion. At the core of the dispute was whether XRP should be classified as a security under U.S. law. The case dragged on for years, sending waves of uncertainty across the crypto markets. However, in July 2023, a breakthrough came when U.S. District Judge Analisa Torres issued a landmark ruling that partially favored Ripple. Judge Torres determined that Ripple’s programmatic sales of XRP to retail investors via exchanges did not constitute securities transactions . However, she held that XRP sales to institutional investors did meet the criteria of securities under the Howey Test. The dual nature of the judgment was a significant legal milestone—not only for Ripple but for the entire digital asset space. It was the first time a U.S. federal court had acknowledged that the same token could be security in some contexts and not in others. From $125 Million to $50 Million: The Fine Shrinks Judge Torres also awarded $125 million against Ripple as civil penalty. However, recent developments suggest that the final amount may now be reduced to just $50 million. According to Bitcoin.com News, Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse confirmed the downsized figure and hinted at a fascinating twist: the possibility that Ripple may pay the SEC in XRP itself. If true, this would mark a seismic shift in regulatory posture—a tacit recognition of XRP not only as a legitimate digital asset but also as a viable medium of settlement in institutional contexts. It would also represent a strategic and philosophical victory for Ripple, allowing the company to use its native token to resolve the very dispute it was once accused of sparking unlawfully. A Regulatory Shift in Tone Garlinghouse’s recent comments go beyond the SEC settlement. In a series of public appearances and interviews, he’s highlighted the changing regulatory environment in the U.S., particularly following a shift in political leadership. He suggested that the antagonism that once characterized U.S. crypto policy is giving way to constructive dialogue and momentum. This new tone from regulators is creating space for strategic realignments within the crypto ecosystem. As Garlinghouse put it, this settlement could mark the beginning of a new era—one defined not by litigation, but by cooperation and integration. We are on twitter, follow us to connect with us :- @TimesTabloid1 — TimesTabloid (@TimesTabloid1) July 15, 2023 Crypto Bulls and Market Signals Garlinghouse also made headlines recently by projecting a bullish price target for Bitcoin, suggesting it could reach $200,000 in the foreseeable future. While bold, such optimism is not without context. With institutional adoption growing, regulatory clarity improving, and the fourth Bitcoin halving on the horizon, crypto bulls are once again sensing a macroeconomic tailwind. If Ripple is allowed to pay its fine in XRP, it will not only be a poetic end to a protracted legal battle—it may also be a harbinger of broader market legitimacy for digital assets. For many in the crypto space, this could very well be the long-awaited “green light” signaling that digital assets are entering a new phase of mainstream acceptance. A Turning Point for Crypto Policy Ripple’s journey from regulatory pariah to institutional pioneer is emblematic of the crypto sector’s broader maturation. The potential XRP-for-fine arrangement is more than a fun fact—it’s a symbol of how far the industry has come, and how much potential still lies ahead. As the dust settles on this once-contentious case, what remains clear is that the lines between traditional finance and crypto are no longer rigid. If XRP becomes the currency of settlement with the SEC, it won’t just be an ironic footnote—it will be a defining moment in crypto regulatory history. Disclaimer : This content is meant to inform and should not be considered financial advice. The views expressed in this article may include the author’s personal opinions and do not represent Times Tabloid’s opinion. Readers are urged to do in-depth research before making any investment decisions. Any action taken by the reader is strictly at their own risk. Times Tabloid is not responsible for any financial losses. Follow us on Twitter , Facebook , Telegram , and Google News The post Fun Fact: Ripple Might Pay the SEC In XRP appeared first on Times Tabloid .