Predictions for the Cryptocurrency Landscape in 2024
As we approach the end of the year, Stuart Alderoty, Ripple’s Chief Legal Officer, shares his insights on what to expect in the cryptocurrency industry in 2024. While he foresees setbacks for the US SEC and a potential Supreme Court confrontation, Alderoty also anticipates challenges on the legislative front.
Ripple CTO’s Forecasts for 2024
Alderoty predicts that Ripple’s legal battle with the SEC will come to an end in 2024, signaling the conclusion of the agency’s “misguided” lawsuit. However, he believes that the SEC will continue its regulatory enforcement through legal actions against other prominent figures in the industry.
Furthermore, Alderoty expects judges to play a crucial role in curbing the SEC’s regulatory overreach, leading to more setbacks for the agency in major legal disputes and potentially paving the way for a Supreme Court showdown.
Disagreements within Congress on Crypto Regulation
While there is a general consensus among members of Congress regarding the need for crypto regulation, Alderoty highlights that disagreements persist on the most effective approach. This lack of agreement is likely to impede progress for US crypto firms while other countries make significant advancements in the digital asset space.
The Ripple vs. SEC Legal Battle
The legal dispute between Ripple and the SEC began in December 2020 when the agency filed a lawsuit accusing Ripple of selling over $1.3 billion worth of XRP as unregistered securities.
After years of escalating tensions, a pivotal decision by US Federal Judge Analisa Torres in mid-July 2023 ruled that Ripple’s past XRP sales did not qualify as investment contracts. Subsequently, Ripple’s CEO and Executive Chairman were cleared of all SEC claims.
The trial scheduled for April 2024 will ultimately determine the outcome of this prolonged conflict and could set a precedent for future complaints against companies.
Hot Take: The Future of Ripple and Crypto Regulation
In 2024, Ripple’s legal battle with the SEC is expected to reach its conclusion, which could have significant implications for the cryptocurrency industry. While setbacks for the SEC and potential Supreme Court involvement may favor Ripple, challenges on the legislative front and disagreements within Congress on crypto regulation could hinder progress for US crypto firms. It remains to be seen how these dynamics will shape the landscape in the coming years.