This legal pause closely follows the Senate’s confirmation of Paul Atkins as the new SEC Chair on April 9. The timing has raised eyebrows. Many market analysts believe the leadership change could signal a softer regulatory stance. The decision to halt court proceedings may be more strategic than procedural.
XRP Whale Activity Hints at Insider Moves
Unusual whale activity around XRP has added fuel to speculation. Crypto analyst John Squire pointed out significant wallet transfers and abnormal on-chain movements in recent days. He suggested this behavior often precedes favorable legal outcomes. According to Squire, major wallets tend to reposition before milestone decisions, indicating possible insider expectations of a positive resolution.
Related article: Ripple Ends SEC Battle With $50M Deal, But XRP Price Refuses to Budge
Legal analyst Fred Rispoli predicted a 90% chance of a settlement or case withdrawal before April 16. He gave only a 10% chance that Ripple would move forward with an appeal. Rispoli emphasized that Ripple has limited time to act, making a swift resolution more likely. Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse had already hinted in March that a resolution was near. The pause now reinforces that outlook.
XRP ETF Talk Gains Momentum
As the lawsuit cools down, industry focus has shifted to the possibility of an XRP exchange-traded fund (ETF). XRP is among the most heavily traded altcoins. Asset managers may revive stalled XRP ETF applications if the SEC removes regulatory barriers. The recent approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs has already whetted institutional appetite for crypto-backed funds.
Related article: XRP Community Rallies Behind $500 Billion Restitution Effort
The convergence of three factors—a legal truce, SEC leadership change, and rising whale activity—has made April 16 a critical date. Many believe a resolution could end years of legal uncertainty and pave the way for broader institutional use of XRP.
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Ripple and the SEC’s legal pause has done more than stall court proceedings—it may set the stage for a major shift in XRP’s regulatory future, including a long-awaited ETF.