The long-standing Ripple-SEC lawsuit is inching toward its final stages, with intense speculation about a potential appeal from the U.S. SEC. The case, which has captivated the crypto world, could be far from over, as experts predict a 75% chance of the SEC appealing certain rulings.

The anticipation has the XRP community buzzing, with the possibility of an extended legal battle looming. Following the rumors, XRP is trading at $0.5866, with its volume down 11% to $928.86 million. It hit a 24-hour high of $0.5908, while XRP Futures Open Interest rose 1%, signaling positive market sentiment.

The Appeal Melodrama Goes On…

Last month, Judge Torres handed Ripple a partial win, ordering the company to pay a $125 million penalty—significantly less than the SEC’s initial $2 billion demand. However, shortly after the ruling, rumors began swirling about a potential SEC appeal. Ripple, too, might re-appeal if the SEC pushes forward, possibly dragging the case well into 2024.

A former SEC lawyer, James Farrell, estimates a 75% likelihood of an SEC appeal, particularly targeting the rulings on institutional sales. According to him, the timing of the appeal is more about administrative logistics than legal strategy, but the decision could dramatically shape XRP’s regulatory landscape.

Ripple’s Strategic Moves and Market Reactions

Interestingly, Ripple has secured a stay order for its penalty payment, fueling speculations that both parties are bracing for a drawn-out legal process. While Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse and CLO Stuart Alderoty remain confident and unbothered by the prospect of an appeal, pro-XRP lawyer Fred Rispoli believes a last-minute appeal decision is very likely.

If Ripple wins an appeal, it could be entitled to statutory interest on the $125 million penalty, adding further complexity to the ongoing saga. This scenario could force the SEC to return the penalty along with interest, a potential financial blow to the regulatory body.

Market Impact: What’s Next for XRP?

As the appeal deadline approaches in October 2024, the stakes are higher than ever. The outcome will have a lasting impact on XRP’s market status and the broader crypto landscape. In the meantime, XRP has shown volatile trading, currently priced at $0.5866 with a slight dip in trading volume but a positive shift in futures sentiment.

What’s next for Ripple and XRP? The countdown is on.