"Ripple vs SEC Lawsuit: Judge Likely to Approve Settlement, 70% Chance – John Deaton"

# Ripple and SEC Likely Nearing Settlement After Prolonged Legal Battle The extensive legal conflict between Ripple and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) appears to be approaching its conclusion after four and a half years. Both parties recently filed a joint settlement proposal with the court. According to a report by CoinGape on the 14th, pro-Ripple attorney John E. Deaton suggests that Judge Analisa Torres has a 70% chance of approving the settlement request. # Key Terms of the Proposed Settlement The settlement details Ripple's agreement to allocate $125 million from its escrowed funds. Of this sum, $50 million will be paid to the SEC as a civil penalty, while Ripple will withdraw the remaining $75 million. Both parties emphasized that finalizing the settlement will save judicial resources and conclude the prolonged litigation. # Reactions to the Proposed Settlement Attorney John Deaton offered his insights on the agreement, expressing that he had hoped for the SEC to accept some responsibility for its earlier stringent approach to cryptocurrency regulation. On the contrary, Marc Fagel, a former SEC official, criticized the agency's rationale for its policy shift. He noted that referencing political circumstances and elections in the settlement documents is "weak from a legal standpoint." # Market and Legal Analyst Perspectives The prevailing market sentiment is optimistic about Judge Torres approving the joint motion. Legal expert Bill Morgan pointed out that although the main argument in the settlement heavily relies on procedural factors, the likelihood of approval is substantial. The resolution of this case could set a considerable precedent for future regulatory engagements with cryptocurrencies, indicating a shift in the industry's relationship with the SEC. Investors and industry stakeholders eagerly await the court's decision, which could signal the end of a significant chapter in cryptocurrency regulation.