You are here: Home / News / Ripple Vs SEC: Judge Grants Motion to Seals 64 Legal Documents
January 12, 2025 by Mwongera Taitumu
- Court seals Ripple and SEC documents as case moves to appeals stage.
- XRP not being a security ruling adds legal momentum.
- Speculation grows over Trump’s possible influence on the Ripple case outcome.
The legal fight between Ripple and the SEC takes a critical turn as the court seals important documents. As both parties prepare for the appellate stage, the case has the potential to reshape cryptocurrency regulation in the U.S.
Court Grants a Motion
A U.S. District Court judge has approved the request to seal key documents in the ongoing legal case between Ripple and the SEC. The ruling, made by Senior District Judge Phyllis J. Hamilton, follows the Ninth Circuit’s “compelling reasons” rule. This decision will allow both parties to maintain sensitive information confidential as the case goes on.
Ripple had requested the sealing of eight exhibits related to its summary judgment and 56 exhibits opposing the SEC’s motion. Meanwhile, the SEC sought to seal parts of its own exhibits, including expert testimony. The judge found both parties’ requests reasonable, given the need to protect critical information during the appeal.
The court’s ruling also highlights the balance between public access and confidentiality. The Ninth Circuit’s rule ensures that only the most sensitive documents are kept sealed. This is important as the case continues to draw attention from both the public and the crypto industry.
The sealed documents include exhibits related to expert testimony and motions for summary judgment. Both parties agreed to protect this information because it is essential to their arguments. The court’s decision aims to preserve fairness and the integrity of the legal process.
The Appellate Phase
This decision is a big win for Ripple as the case moves to the next stage. Ripple has already scored a partial victory, with a ruling that XRP is not basically a security. However, the SEC is preparing for its appeal, which will be pivotal in shaping cryptocurrency regulation in the U.S.
According to legal experts, Ripple’s partial victory is expected to leave the SEC’s appeal with major challenges. Some pro-crypto figures are advocating for a more flexible approach to cryptocurrency regulation. This case could set a precedent for how cryptocurrencies are treated under U.S. law in the future.
Impact of the Case
XRP’s price experienced an increase following Ripple’s court win, rising 1.7% to $2.31. Analysts suggest that the cryptocurrency is consolidating and may likely follow Bitcoin’s pattern. The ongoing legal battle will continue to play a crucial role in shaping market sentiment.
Speculation about a potential meeting between Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse and former President Donald Trump has also emerged. Although unconfirmed, rumors suggest that Trump’s pro-crypto position could impact the outcome of the case. This development draws more interest to an already high-profile legal dispute.