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Senator Cynthia Lummis Urges Clear Crypto Regulations Following XRP Court Ruling

Senator Lummis emphasises the urgent need for clear crypto regulations after the XRP ruling, shaping the digital asset landscape in the United States.

Shashank Bhardwaj
Published: Jul 19, 2023 08:22:56 AM IST

Senator Cynthia Lummis; Photo by Caroline Brehman / POOL / AFP

In a recent court ruling, Judge Analisa Torres ruled that Ripple's XRP token is not a security when traded on digital asset exchanges. Senator Cynthia Lummis emphasised the ruling's importance on Twitter and called for Congress to create a clear regulatory framework for cryptos.

Lummis, a long-standing advocate of Bitcoin, stressed the importance of a transparent crypto framework that prioritises consumer protection and fosters innovation within the crypto industry. She specifically referenced the Responsible Financial Innovation Act, also known as the Lummis-Gillibrand Bill, which aims to provide clarity and regulatory guidelines for digital assets based on the Howey test.

According to Lummis, the Howey test is a legal standard used to determine whether an investment qualifies as a security, and maintaining its relevance in crypto regulation is crucial. The Wyoming senator believes a well-defined regulatory framework will protect investors and encourage economic expansion and entrepreneurship within the crypto industry.

The court dispute between Ripple Labs and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) holds extensive implications, as this case could set a precedent for regulating digital assets within the United States. The absence of clear guidelines has left entrepreneurs and investors uncertain, hindering innovation and growth in the crypto market.

Senator Lummis's call for congressional action carries significant weight, as it reflects a growing awareness among legislators that the crypto industry requires a forward-thinking regulatory approach to unlock its full potential. However, with the ruling partially favouring Ripple, it remains to be seen how Congress will address her plea for regulatory clarity in the crypto market.

The impact of this ruling extends beyond XRP and may shape the regulatory landscape for all digital assets in the United States. As the crypto industry continues to evolve, policymakers face the challenge of striking a balance between protecting consumers and fostering innovation to ensure the growth and stability of the crypto market.

Shashank is the founder of yMedia. He ventured into crypto in 2013 and is an ETH maximalist. Twitter: @bhardwajshash