

The past week delivered major developments across crypto litigation, regulation, and capital markets. From a high-profile defamation suit involving Binance to new guidance from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, regulators and courts continue to shape the legal framework governing digital assets. Below are the key stories defining crypto law this week. 1. Binance Sues…

A federal court has blocked Binance’s attempt to push token-sale lawsuits into arbitration, allowing investors to proceed in federal court. Turkey has proposed a new tax framework for cryptocurrencies, including a 10% tax on gains. A court dismissed liability claims against Uniswap, emphasizing the liability distinction for decentralized platforms. Kraken’s banking arm gained access to…

The Clarity Act has a high likelihood of passing soon, according to Ripple’s CEO, with key components debated, particularly around stablecoin structures. A March 1 deadline set by the White House aims to resolve these issues, potentially facilitating comprehensive digital asset legislation. The SEC has eased capital treatment for certain stablecoins, enhancing their appeal for…

In Paul Atkins’ speech, “The SEC’s Approach to Digital Assets,” he indicates a shift in the SEC’s regulatory stance, from strict enforcement to embracing digital asset innovation while prioritizing market integrity. He introduces a taxonomy for digital assets, distinguishing between securities and non-securities based on their functionality. Atkins highlights that tokens might evolve from investment…

On August 7, 2025, the SEC and Ripple Labs concluded their legal dispute, dismissing appeals related to the classification of XRP sales. The joint stipulation reflects a mutual decision to avoid further litigation. This case has implications for crypto regulation, offering insights on token classification and the limits of enforcement. Ripple can now operate without…

In a significant speech, SEC Chairman Paul Atkins proposed “Project Crypto,” a regulatory initiative aimed at positioning the U.S. as a leader in crypto markets. The project focuses on clarifying token classifications, supporting tokenized securities, modernizing custody rules, and facilitating innovation while reconsidering financial intermediaries. It aims to reshape U.S. financial regulation for blockchain and…

On July 1, 2025, the SEC issued non-binding guidance outlining disclosure expectations for crypto asset ETPs. It aims to enhance transparency for investors by detailing requirements for risk disclosures, NAV calculations, service provider roles, and compliance. This guidance seeks to standardize the registration process and mitigate concerns surrounding crypto markets.

PEKEN Global Limited, operator of KuCoin, pleaded guilty to running an unlicensed money transmitting business in the U.S., leading to nearly $300 million in fines. This reflects significant violations of U.S. AML and KYC regulations. KuCoin’s failure to implement proper protocols allowed illicit transactions, causing it to cease U.S. operations for two years.

In November, the SEC charged Eng Taing and Touzi Capital with a $115 million securities fraud, misleading investors about crypto mining and debt rehabilitation investments. Funds were misused for personal gains while false profitability claims were made. The SEC seeks penalties and a ban on Taing, reinforcing the need for compliance in crypto markets.

SEC Charges So-Called Market Maker and Two Employees in Crackdown on Manipulation of Crypto Assets Offered and Sold as Securities https://www.sec.gov/enforcement-litigation/litigation-releases/lr-26158 In a sting operation emblematic of a John Grisham novel, the SEC charged ZM Quant Investment Ltd.—a British Virgin Islands entity—with manipulating markets and offering unregistered securities. Acting as a self-proclaimed market maker, ZM…