GENIUS Act Signed into Law; XRP Surges Amid SEC Settlement

The cryptocurrency landscape has witnessed significant developments recently, marked by the enactment of the GENIUS Act and notable movements in Ripple’s XRP.

GENIUS Act Establishes Stablecoin Regulations

On July 18, 2025, President Donald Trump signed the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins Act (GENIUS Act) into law. This landmark legislation introduces a comprehensive regulatory framework for stablecoin cryptocurrencies, aiming to ensure financial stability and consumer protection. The act mandates stringent standards for reserves, audits, and transparency for stablecoin issuers, establishing a dual federal and state supervisory system. This move signifies a pivotal shift in the U.S. government’s approach to digital assets, providing much-needed clarity and legitimacy to the stablecoin sector. The GENIUS Act’s passage reflects a bipartisan effort to integrate cryptocurrencies into the mainstream financial system, potentially setting a precedent for future digital asset regulations. Source

XRP Surges Following SEC Settlement

In parallel, Ripple’s XRP has experienced a significant price surge, trading above $3.15, marking a 29% increase this week. This uptick follows Ripple’s payment of a $125 million penalty to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), settling a longstanding lawsuit. The settlement, paid entirely in cash, clears up previous rumors about a crypto payout and brings Ripple closer to resolving its legal challenges. Former SEC lawyer Marc Fagel confirmed that the court required a cash-only settlement. However, the lawsuit isn’t over yet; both Ripple and the SEC still need to withdraw their appeals before the case officially closes. Until then, the money remains locked in escrow. Source

Market Implications

The enactment of the GENIUS Act and Ripple’s settlement with the SEC are pivotal events that could reshape the cryptocurrency market. The GENIUS Act provides a regulatory framework that may encourage institutional investment in stablecoins, fostering greater trust and stability in the market. Meanwhile, Ripple’s resolution of its legal issues could bolster confidence in XRP, potentially leading to increased adoption and investment. These developments underscore the evolving relationship between regulatory bodies and the cryptocurrency industry, highlighting a trend towards greater integration and acceptance of digital assets within the traditional financial system.

As the cryptocurrency market continues to mature, such regulatory clarity and legal resolutions are essential for its sustained growth and mainstream acceptance. Investors and stakeholders should stay informed about these developments, as they have significant implications for the future trajectory of digital assets.

For more detailed information on the GENIUS Act, refer to the official documentation. To stay updated on Ripple’s legal proceedings and XRP’s market performance, consult reputable financial news sources and official statements from Ripple Labs.

In conclusion, the recent legislative and legal developments mark a significant step forward for the cryptocurrency industry, paving the way for a more regulated and stable market environment.