The recent Third Circuit Court of Appeals ruling against the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) offers a significantly positive turn for Coinbase in their ongoing legal battle. The court has mandated that the SEC must provide a legal basis for its lack of response to a 2022 petition that sought formal rule-making in the digital assets sector. The SEC is granted a 10-day deadline to file its response, after which Coinbase will have seven days to present its counter-response.
Coinbase has been assertive in their criticism of the SEC’s inadequate regulatory guidance for US-based cryptocurrency firms. The company has urged the financial watchdog to clarify how certain requirements can be adapted to digital assets, at the least. The response deadline imposed on the SEC by the court marks a significant shift in the legal proceedings concerning Coinbase’s battle with the regulator.
The somewhat murky regulatory landscape in the United States has compelled Coinbase to examine possibilities beyond its domestic boundaries. Consequently, they have launched the Coinbase International Exchange, offering Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) perpetual futures for trading, settled in USD Coin (USDC). However, the trading platform will cater only to institutional clients from eligible jurisdictions outside the United States.
In March, the SEC disclosed its plan to sue Coinbase based on allegations that it offers unregistered securities products. In response, Coinbase has been actively seeking a proactive stance to alleviate the legal heat. The recent court order has provided the crypto giant with a vital advantage, making the SEC appear unresponding to essential requisites.
The regulation context within the realms of cryptocurrency remains uncertain, with stakeholders continuously adopting a different approach. The verdict of this lawsuit is bound to create industry-wide ramifications, as it may pave the way for significant improvements or unprecedented restrictions.
The Third Circuit Court of Appeals ruling provides a crucial development in the legal battle between Coinbase and the SEC. This case serves as a benchmark for the cryptosphere, as it engages with the challenges and opportunities surrounding digital assets regulation in the United States. A favorable outcome for Coinbase may encourage other crypto companies to push for better regulatory clarity or even explore international avenues. However, an unfavorable outcome may force companies to reevaluate their approach or put their industry at risk. Regardless of the result, alterations to the regulatory framework may be imminent, influencing the future development of cryptocurrencies, blockchain technology, and digital asset markets.
Source: crypto.news
