TL;DR

• Ripple was ordered to pay a $125 million fine, significantly lower than the US SEC’s initial demand, with both parties able to contend until early October.
• Lawyer Bill Morgan now sees a reduced chance (45%-55%) of an appeal form the Commision, based on recent case developments and favorable views on Judge Torres’ ruling.

The Appeal Seems Less Likely?

The latest major development surrounding the lawsuit between Ripple and the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) occurred at the beginning of August when Judge Torres ruled that the company must pay a $125 million fine for violating certain securities laws. 

Numerous industry participants interpreted the decision as a major win for the firm, considering that the regulator initially insisted on a $2 billion penalty. Some even labeled it the end of the legal battle.

However, the case remains ongoing since both entities have until early October to appeal. Such a move coming from Ripple would be viewed as a surprise since the fine represents a 94% deduction on the regulator’s demand. Moreover, CEO Brad Garlinghouse said the firm respects the court’s ruling, while CL