Ripple’s fight with the SEC was a tough one but it fought back, played smart, and came out swinging. And now, with a new pro-crypto wave hitting Washington, Ripple’s strategy might just be what kickstarts the next chapter for the entire industry.
Lauren Belive, Ripple’s Global Co-Head of Policy, recently shared how the company didn’t just survive the SEC’s crackdown, but helped reshape U.S. crypto policy from the inside out.
‘Proactive Engagement Is Essential,’ Says Lauren Belive
In a recent Crypto in One Minute video, Belive stressed the importance of engaging with regulators early and often – not just in Washington, but around the world.
Her main point is that crypto companies can’t afford to sit on the sidelines. Education and open conversations with lawmakers are critical to building rules that protect users and allow innovation to thrive.
Ripple’s Legal Fight: How It All Started
Ripple’s battle with the SEC began in December 2020, just as SEC Chairman Jay Clayton was leaving office. On his last day, he hit Ripple with a lawsuit, accusing it of selling unregistered securities through XRP.
Then came Gary Gensler.
Under his leadership, the SEC became even more aggressive, filing over 100 lawsuits against crypto firms – including keeping the pressure on Ripple. 2024 was a tough year for the company. With the Biden administration still in office, Ripple stayed on the defense but didn’t back down.
After all, they weren’t just fighting for themselves – they were pushing for clear, fair rules across the board.
2025 Settlement: A Turning Point for Ripple and U.S. Crypto
The long legal fight finally came to an end in 2025. With Paul S. Atkins stepping in as the new SEC Chair, things shifted.
Atkins brought a more balanced, crypto-friendly approach, and Ripple reached a settlement with the SEC. It helped reshape the direction of U.S. crypto regulation.
Ripple was finally validated.
Ripple’s Political Strategy: Showing Up and Speaking Out!
Belive revealed that the company made a real push to be part of the political conversation.
Ripple invested time and resources into educating lawmakers on both sides of the aisle. They supported both the Democratic and Republican national committees, and actively participated throughout the campaign season.
“We went to the DNC. We invested in the RNC. We participated throughout the campaign cycle,” Belive said.
This kind of direct involvement helped bring in what she calls “the most pro-crypto Congress” the U.S. has ever seen along with a president who’s open to blockchain innovation.
Now, the company is working alongside Congress to help build a fair, forward-looking regulatory framework – one that encourages growth but keeps investor protections in place.
Ripple showed the rest of the industry what real advocacy looks like. By taking a stand, getting political, and sticking with the fight, they helped shift the entire tone of the U.S. crypto conversation.
