Regulation
XRP Lawyer Says SEC Knows Ripple ODL Sales Are Not Investment Contracts
In a recent filing, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) opposed Ripple’s motion to seal and redact evidence related to remedies briefing and documents. Moreover, the SEC urged the court to order the disclosure of Ripple’s business details from the agency’s March 22 remedies briefing.
However, Ripple had previously requested that financial reports, post-complaint XRP institutional sales details, and other sensitive information remain confidential due to the high risks to the firm. Amid the chaos, Bill Morgan, a pro-XRP advocate, underscored that the SEC alredy knows that Ripple’s On-demand Liquidity (ODL) sales aren’t investment contracts.
SEC Mentions Ripple ODL Sales In Filing
Pro-XRP lawyer Bill Morgan shared a snapshot from the SEC’s latest response. The snapshot highlighted, “The same is true for Ripple’s aged securities offering and sales information. Ripple wants to hide the extent to which it offered XRP at discriminatory prices. But the period when Ripple was offering discounts goes back to 2014 and ended in December 2020.”
It added, “Ripple has not shown how the discounts it offered four years ago or more would matter, particularly since Ripple seeks to avoid remedies by claiming it ‘has changed the way it sells XRP and changed its contracts.’” in addition, the SEC emphasized that Ripple’s current contracts are not the ones under scrutiny.
The agency further added, “Indeed, the contracts at issue are not ODL contracts—the only type of Institutional Sales contracts Ripple claims it enters into today… none of Ripple’s current contracts contain lockups. The redactions the SEC opposes thus do not reveal ‘long-term business plans of any kind.’”
Lawyer Explains SEC’s Stance On ODL Sales
Morgan elaborated on the SEC’s position, explaining, “The SEC clarifies that none of the sales to institutions with discounts were ODL contracts.” He added, “The SEC would have reviewed the ODL contracts and observed that they do not have discounts or the features referred to in the summary judgment that made institutional buyer contracts to be investment contracts according to judge Torres.”
Furthermore, Morgan pointed out a key distinction in the nature of ODL contracts. He noted that the ODL contracts require customers to buy XRP at market price and to use the tokens in ODL transactions. Moreover, he emphasized that these customers agree on not holding them as investments. Hence, he questioned why Judge Torres categorized these contracts similarly to other institutional agreements.
The lawyer speculated, “It remains a mystery why Judge Torres lumped them in with the other contracts with Institutions.” In addition, the pro-XRP attorney noted that the SEC knows that its stance on the ODL sales wrong. He stated, “I bet SEC knows the ODL contracts are not investment contracts.” This ongoing legal battle between the SEC and Ripple highlights the complexities surrounding cryptocurrency regulation and the definitions of securities.
Also Read: Ripple SEC Lawsuit: SEC Files Opposition to Sealing XRP Details, Here’s Everything
SEC Files Opposition Against Ripple
On Monday, May 20, the U.S. SEC filed a response opposing part of Ripple’s motion to seal and redact certain documents. The SEC argues that Ripple’s attempt to “conceal financial and securities sales information” is unlawful, as the information is crucial for the remedies phase and public understanding of the penalties.
Whilst, Ripple seeks to redact details such as the amount of its current assets, recent sales figures, revenues and expenses, and discounts offered to institutional investors. However, the SEC contends that these details are essential for determining penalties, injunctive relief, disgorgement, and investor harm. They argue that Ripple has not provided sufficient evidence that making this information public would cause significant harm.
Furthermore, the SEC states that the financial information in question is outdated and that some of it is already publicly available. The regulator also asserts that Ripple’s reliance on previous court sealing approvals does not apply to the current situation. The SEC maintains that transparency is necessary for the court’s decisions and public accountability.
Also Read: XRP Lawsuit: Ripple Moves 50M XRP Ahead Major Deadline, What’s Happening?
The presented content may include the personal opinion of the author and is subject to market condition. Do your market research before investing in cryptocurrencies. The author or the publication does not hold any responsibility for your personal financial loss.
Regulation
Thailand Boosts Crypto Ambitions, Welcomes Bitcoin ETFs on Local Exchanges
Thailand is witnessing a significant breakthrough in its ambitious vision to establish a digital asset hub. A recent report on Wednesday revealed Thailand’s plans to adopt Bitcoin ETFs, permitting local exchanges to list the exchange-traded funds.
Thailand Prepares for Bitcoin ETF Debut
The Thai Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) plans to approve its first Bitcoin ETF, aligning with the country’s crypto hub vision, Bloomberg reported on January 15.
SEC Secretary-General Pornanong Budsaratragoon posited that the move would allow individual and institutional investors to invest in the Bitcoin vehicles directly.
Promoting the use of cryptocurrencies, Thailand is paving the way for the worldwide adoption of digital assets. During an interview on Tuesday, Pornanong stated,
Like it or not, we have to move along with more adoption of cryptocurrencies worldwide. We have to adapt and ensure that our investors have more options in crypto assets with proper protection.
Although, One Asset Management in Thailand has introduced a fund-of-fund tracking international Bitcoin ETFs, a direct investment tool remains pending approval. The ONE Bitcoin ETF Fund of Funds Unhedged and not for Retail Investors (ONE-BTCETFOF-UI) and was approved by the Thai SEC last year.
Thailand’s Thaksin To Legalize Crypto
The latest development came on the heels of Pheu Thai Party leader Thaksin Shinawatra’s efforts to legalize crypto. Citing the incoming US President Donald Trump’s crypto-friendly approach, Thaksin suggested Thailand embrace a more progressive stance on virtual assets. He also proposed the increased issuance and use of stablecoins.
Digital-asset trading activity in Thailand is picking up amid a wider rally that pushed Bitcoin to a record high of $108,315. Crypto hedge funds had a great last year but failed to give more returns than Bitcoin (BTC), as per Bloomberg
Thailand’s Broader Crypto Vision and Regulations
Thailand has long been striving to solidify its position at the forefront of the global crypto market. In a recent development, the country announced its crypto payment pilot project, with the trial set in Phuket.
While the initiative is expected to be executed within Thailand’s existing legal framework, it bolsters the nation’s crypto vision. The country is broadly looking to boost crypto adoption and Bitcoin ETFs will be welcome move for the local crypto industry.
Disclaimer: The presented content may include the personal opinion of the author and is subject to market condition. Do your market research before investing in cryptocurrencies. The author or the publication does not hold any responsibility for your personal financial loss.
Regulation
South Korea’s Largest Exchange Upbit Under Sanctions Review by Watchdog
Upbit, South Korea’s largest crypto exchange, is facing increased scrutiny over alleged Know-Your-Customer (KYC) violations. The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) of South Korea has scheduled a disciplinary hearing on January 21 to evaluate the exchange’s regulatory compliance. As as result, the crypto market could see significant low activity amid the review
FIU Meeting To Assess Upbit’s KYC Violations
Notably, the FIU revealed that the sanctions review meeting would assess the 500k+ suspected KYC breaches discovered during an on-site inspection for the renewal of the virtual asset service provider (VASP).
Reportedly, this sanctions-level meeting for Upbit marks the first hearing of its kind, addressing issues identified during a VASP renewal inspection. This meeting will determine the extent of sanctions Upbit could face, considering factors like lapses in KYC compliance. Analyzing the crypro exchange’s explanation for its alleged violations, the regulator would determine the severity of fines and disciplinary actions against the platform.
Upbit Faces Scrutiny Under South Korea’s FIU
Since August last year, Upbit facing investigations led by the financial watchdog. During the license renewal process, the FIU uncovered 500,000-600,000 cases of unauthorized customer verification procedures. This includes instances of accounts being approved despite the blurred customer name or registration number, making identification impossible.
Though these cases highlight the exchange’s reluctance to follow regulatory standards, it is still uncertain whether they actually mark KYC breaches. However, following the disciplinary meeting, FIU is likely to draw conclusions, particularly based on Upbit’s explanations.
South Korea’s Crypto Regulatory Norms
South Korea has embarked on its journey to establish a crypto-focused regulatory framework. In a recent development, the Financial Services Commission has kicked off discussions on the second phase of crypto regulations, especially targeting stablecoins and customer protection.
South Korea’s recent collaboration with the US and Japan to tackle the growing crypto threats also underscores the nation’s commitment to user security. Last day, the three countries jointly released a paper, warning against the North Korean hackers’ eye on crypto.
The FIU’s meeting on Upbit’s KYC violation marks a significant turning point in South Korea’s regulatory landscape. While the meeting decides its fate in South Korea, it could have a broader impact on global crypto regulations and laws.
Disclaimer: The presented content may include the personal opinion of the author and is subject to market condition. Do your market research before investing in cryptocurrencies. The author or the publication does not hold any responsibility for your personal financial loss.
Regulation
New SEC Leadership Under Donald Trump To Revamp Crypto Regulations
The incoming administration under President-elect Donald Trump is preparing to introduce changes to cryptocurrency regulations in the United States. Sources indicate that the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), under new leadership, will initiate a review of its current policies and enforcement actions related to crypto.
Donald Trump SEC Leadership To Reassess Crypto Enforcement Actions
A recent Reuters report suggests that top officials at the SEC, including Hester Peirce and Mark Uyeda, are planning to reassess existing crypto enforcement cases. The focus will be on cases where fraud is not alleged, with the possibility of freezing or withdrawing some lawsuits.
Under the outgoing leadership of Gary Gensler, the SEC pursued at least 83 enforcement actions involving crypto-related companies. These actions targeted firms like Coinbase and Kraken, often on the basis that their tokens were considered securities. Industry participants have long sought clarity on when and how the SEC applies its rules to digital assets.
Sources state that Peirce and Uyeda are expected to call for feedback on potential new crypto regulations. This process will address industry concerns while aligning the SEC’s rules with evolving market conditions.
Meanwhile, Bitcoin advocate Anthony Pompliano has outlined three key actions for Donald Trump to boost U.S. Bitcoin adoption. Anthony proposed repealing SAB 121 for banks to hold Bitcoin, establishing a national Bitcoin reserve, and reforming tax codes to eliminate capital gains tax on BTC payments. Pompliano believes these measures will solidify the U.S. as a crypto leader.
Proposed Regulatory Changes
The SEC is likely to revise its guidance on accounting practices for companies holding crypto assets. The current guidance has reportedly made it costly for listed firms to manage digital tokens for third parties. Changes in this area will lower barriers to institutional participation in the crypto market.
Paul Atkins, Donald Trump pick for Securities and Exchange Commission Chair, has a reputation for supporting crypto-friendly policies. However, his confirmation by the Senate may take some time. Until then, Peirce and Uyeda will lead interim efforts to reshape regulatory priorities.
Trump Administration’s Executive Orders to Accelerate Crypto Overhaul
President-elect Donald Trump is expected to issue executive orders aimed at expediting crypto regulatory reforms. These orders may direct federal agencies, including the SEC, to review their policies and promote innovation in the digital asset sector.
The administration’s pro-crypto stance has already generated excitement within the market. Bitcoin reached $100,000 for the first time in December, reflecting optimism about the regulatory environment under Trump’s leadership.
Despite the optimism, revising regulations and enforcement actions could face challenges. Legal experts note that dismissing pending cases or reopening settlements may lead to objections from courts. Resolving these issues will require careful coordination between the SEC and industry stakeholders.
The new leadership may also need months to finalize and implement any proposed rule changes. Industry representatives have previously criticized the Securities and Exchange Commission for being unwilling to engage in discussions under its former leadership.
In addition, Bitwise CIO highlighted trends driving corporate Bitcoin adoption, including MicroStrategy’s $42B acquisition plans, new FASB rules allowing firms to record BTC gains and pro-crypto policies. These factors, he notes, are encouraging more companies to integrate Bitcoin into their treasuries.
Disclaimer: The presented content may include the personal opinion of the author and is subject to market condition. Do your market research before investing in cryptocurrencies. The author or the publication does not hold any responsibility for your personal financial loss.
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