Breaking: Ripple vs SEC Showdown Reaches Climax as Judge Torres Gets Critical Letter

The crypto world holds its breath as the years-long Ripple-SEC legal battle enters its final act. Judge Analisa Torres just received a pivotal letter that could decide XRP's fate—and send shockwaves through the market.

What's inside? Speculation runs wild about whether this is a settlement offer, new evidence, or a procedural bombshell. One thing's certain: Wall Street lawyers are billing overtime either way.

Remember when the SEC claimed all crypto was their turf? This case could finally draw the regulatory lines—or prove the government's just playing whack-a-mole with blockchain innovation.

Final Legal Steps Begin in Ripple vs SEC Lawsuit

The latest court filing, dated July 11, 2025, comes from Andrew Kunsak, a representative from law firm Sidley Austin LLP. Kunsak requested that Judge Torres remove his client—an unnamed investment banker declarant—from the court docket. According to the filing, this witness’s role in the XRP lawsuit is now complete, and their testimony is not subject to any ongoing appeals.

This declarant was brought into the case in August 2023 to provide expert analysis while protecting the interests of their stakeholders. Kunsak also informed the court that he WOULD be leaving Sidley Austin LLP and that no attorneys from the firm would remain involved with the case.

Importantly, Sidley Austin LLP does not represent either Ripple or the SEC directly. The letter indicates that procedural clean-up has started, a common step as high-profile legal cases approach resolution.

Judge Torres Previously Denied Joint Request to End Case Early

Just days before the recent letter, Judge Torres denied a joint motion from both Ripple and the SEC to issue an “indicative ruling” that would effectively end the case. This motion followed the SEC’s proposal to settle and reduce Ripple’s penalty to $50 million. The request also included lifting the long-standing injunction placed on Ripple.

Despite the denial, the overall direction of the case remains unchanged. Both Ripple and the SEC are winding down their legal efforts, and the court is moving toward formally concluding the matter.

Ripple CEO: “We’re Closing This Chapter”

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has confirmed that the company is no longer pursuing its cross-appeal in the 2nd Circuit Court. The SEC has also withdrawn its own appeal.

“We’re closing this chapter once and for all and focusing on what’s most important—building the Internet of Value,” Garlinghouse stated in a recent post on social media. The comment reflects a major shift in focus for Ripple as it seeks to MOVE beyond legal struggles and return to innovation and business growth.

XRP Price Reacts With 6% Rally

Following the positive news, XRP surged nearly 6% in the last 24 hours, trading at $2.56 at the time of writing. The asset reached a daily high of $2.59, with a low of $2.41. Notably, trading volume has increased by 23%, indicating rising investor interest as the lawsuit nears its conclusion.

This rally follows a breakout from a descending wedge pattern earlier in the week, further supported by a spike in whale accumulation and institutional demand. Market sentiment around XRP has improved steadily as traders anticipate regulatory clarity and a clean legal exit for Ripple.

What This Means for XRP and Ripple’s Future

The conclusion of the Ripple SEC case could be one of the most important developments for XRP’s future. For years, the lawsuit has cast a shadow over XRP, limiting exchange listings, deterring institutional investment, and causing price volatility.

Now, with both Ripple and the SEC stepping back from further litigation, XRP is regaining its momentum. The removal of key legal barriers could open doors for spot XRP ETF approvals, new exchange partnerships, and broader adoption in traditional finance and cross-border payments.

Ripple is also expanding its ecosystem, particularly through its RLUSD stablecoin, which recently crossed a $500 million market cap. This growth highlights Ripple’s continued commitment to building a real-world blockchain infrastructure.

Conclusion

With Judge Torres receiving formal requests to close out witness participation and with both Ripple and the SEC dropping their appeals, the end of the XRP lawsuit is clearly in sight. XRP holders and market participants are optimistic that this marks the beginning of a new chapter—one where XRP can operate without legal uncertainty.

As Ripple shifts its focus toward utility, innovation, and global expansion, XRP could be positioned for further gains. Whether you’re a long-time XRP holder or just watching from the sidelines, this turning point may prove to be one of the most pivotal moments in Ripple’s history.