TLDR
- Ripple’s $125M fine was paid in cash, not XRP, confirmed former SEC lawyer Marc Fagel.
- Ripple’s settlement hinges on both SEC and Ripple dropping their appeals soon.
- SEC’s potential decision to drop the appeal could bring the Ripple case to a close.
- Legal experts dismiss rumors of the US government using XRP escrow for national reserves.
The ongoing Ripple vs. SEC lawsuit has reached a crucial juncture, with Ripple’s $125 million penalty now settled. Despite rumors suggesting that Ripple would pay the fine in XRP, former SEC lawyer Marc Fagel confirmed that the payment was made in cash.
As the legal battle nears its resolution, attention has shifted toward whether the SEC will soon drop its appeal, potentially bringing the case to a close.
Ripple’s $125 Million Penalty Paid in Cash
Recent developments in the Ripple vs. SEC case have sparked significant attention regarding the payment of a $125 million penalty. Rumors had circulated that Ripple might pay the fine in XRP, but Marc Fagel, a former SEC lawyer, has clarified that the payment was made in cash.
Fagel, who is well-versed in SEC procedures, confirmed that the $125 million had already been paid into escrow as required by a court order.
Fagel’s assertion directly refutes the speculation surrounding the form of payment, stating, “They already paid in cash. Sorry. I’m stating facts.” His comments bring clarity to the situation and emphasize that Ripple complied with the court’s requirements in a straightforward manner, paying the fine in the traditional currency rather than in cryptocurrency.
They already paid in cash. Sorry.
— Marc Fagel (@Marc_Fagel) July 16, 2025
Additionally, Fagel highlighted that the lawsuit is progressing without delays from Judge Torres or the SEC, noting that the SEC’s dismissal process is expected to follow standard procedures. This would likely take 1-2 months after the vote, suggesting the case is moving forward smoothly.
Appeal Dismissal Key to Ripple vs SEC Case End, Says Lawyer
Ripple’s settlement of the $125 million fine does not mark the final resolution of its legal battle with the SEC. Legal expert Fagel notes that the case’s conclusion depends on the appeals process.
While Ripple has met its financial obligation, both parties must drop their appeals for the case to be fully resolved, which Fagel expects could happen within one to two months.
The SEC’s decision to withdraw its appeal is crucial. Reports suggest the SEC may vote to dismiss its appeal in a confidential July meeting. If the SEC chooses to drop its appeal, the court’s original ruling will stand, and the fine will be released to the SEC.
The case’s future depends on both parties’ actions. If both Ripple and the SEC withdraw their appeals, the legal battle could be officially concluded.
Ripple’s Legal Battle and XRP’s Growing Popularity
Rumors suggesting that Ripple’s penalty would be paid in XRP have sparked speculation about the U.S. government seizing Ripple’s XRP escrow to expand national reserves.
While these rumors have gained attention, legal experts, including Bill Morgan, have dismissed them, with Morgan stating, “No, it won’t.” Marc Fagel also clarified that Ripple’s fine was settled in cash, ruling out XRP’s involvement in this matter.
The growing interest in XRP is driven partly by its legal battle with the SEC, which has fueled a surge in its price, increasing by nearly 60% in the past month. This price rise is not only linked to the lawsuit but also reflects increasing institutional interest in XRP.
The potential resolution of the SEC case further fuels optimism in the XRP community.
Despite the speculation, uncertainties persist. While Ripple’s fine is settled, the appeal process continues, and the final outcome of both the lawsuit and XRP’s future remains unclear.
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