SEC Ends Robinhood Probe: A Sign of Changing Times?
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has closed its investigation into Robinhood Crypto without taking any action. Robinhood welcomed the decision, emphasizing its compliance with federal securities laws. Dan Gallagher, Robinhood’s Chief Legal Officer, urged the SEC to focus on clear regulations instead of aggressive enforcement. This move signals a broader shift in crypto regulation under Acting SEC Chair Mark Uyeda. Uyeda highlighted a new focus on fostering innovation and economic growth while protecting investors.
What This Means for Ripple and XRP
Investors are watching closely to see if this regulatory shift will benefit Ripple. The SEC has yet to announce whether it will continue its appeal against the Ripple case regarding XRP’s programmatic sales. Dropping the appeal could clear the way for an XRP-spot ETF, potentially boosting institutional demand. Analysts believe an ETF approval might push XRP’s price toward $5. On the flip side, continued legal uncertainty may keep XRP below the $1.50 mark.
XRP Price Faces Bearish Pressure
On February 24, XRP dropped 11.50% to close at $2.2801, underperforming the broader crypto market. While the SEC’s regulatory changes offer hope, XRP’s daily chart shows bearish signals. Investors remain cautious as the legal battle lingers. A decision to withdraw the appeal could trigger a price rally, possibly surpassing XRP’s all-time high of $3.5505.
Bitcoin Slides Amid Tariff Concerns
While XRP battles legal hurdles, Bitcoin (BTC) faces its own challenges. BTC slipped below $95,000 as U.S. tariff concerns weighed on market sentiment. President Trump’s planned tariffs on Canada and Mexico have sparked fears of rising inflation. Investors worry that inflationary pressures may prompt the Federal Reserve to maintain higher interest rates for longer. BTC’s decline extended to five straight sessions of ETF outflows, dragging prices toward the $90,000 level.
What’s Next for Crypto Markets?
Market watchers are keeping an eye on several key factors:
- The SEC’s decision on Ripple’s appeal.
- U.S. tariff policies and inflation trends.
- Federal Reserve’s interest rate moves.
- Potential progress on a U.S. Bitcoin reserve strategy.
A favorable outcome for Ripple could send shockwaves through the crypto market, lifting XRP and boosting investor confidence. Meanwhile, Bitcoin’s trajectory remains tied to global economic developments and regulatory shifts. Traders should stay alert as both legal decisions and macroeconomic trends unfold.
