Ripple CEO Criticizes SEC's Gary Gensler, Praises New Chair Paul Atkins
Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse Slams Gary Gensler-Era SEC, Says Trump Appointee Paul Atkins Like A 'Breath Of Fresh Air And Sanity'
Benzinga
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Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse criticized former SEC Chair Gary Gensler's approach, claiming it harmed the cryptocurrency sector. He praised current SEC Chair Paul Atkins for focusing on investor protection and innovation, contrasting it with Gensler's leadership during a prolonged legal battle over Ripple's XRP cryptocurrency.
- 01Brad Garlinghouse condemned Gary Gensler's SEC for its aggressive stance against cryptocurrency.
- 02He praised Paul Atkins as a positive change, emphasizing investor protection and innovation.
- 03Ripple's legal battle with the SEC over XRP ended last August.
- 04Garlinghouse highlighted the need for pro-crypto policies and initiatives like the Clarity Act.
- 05Ripple contributed $45 million to support pro-crypto candidates in Congress.
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Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has openly criticized the leadership of former SEC Chair Gary Gensler, claiming that his tenure represented a 'war on technology' that ultimately harmed the cryptocurrency industry. In a recent post on social media platform X, Garlinghouse referred to Gensler's approach as an 'unlawful power grab,' citing the SEC v. DEBT Box case as evidence of the regulator's overreach. In contrast, he praised current SEC Chair Paul Atkins as a 'breath of fresh air and sanity,' highlighting his focus on protecting investors and fostering innovation. Garlinghouse's comments come after Ripple's prolonged legal battle with the SEC over the status of its cryptocurrency XRP, which concluded in August 2025. He has been vocal about the need for pro-crypto policies and has taken action by supporting the establishment of Fairshake, a super PAC aimed at electing cryptocurrency-friendly candidates, with Ripple being the largest donor at $45 million. Atkins has expressed his desire for the U.S. to become the 'crypto capital of the world,' advocating for reforms like the Clarity Act to address regulatory uncertainties. Meanwhile, the SEC faces scrutiny from Democrats regarding its reputation, especially following dropped lawsuits against major players in the crypto space.
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Garlinghouse's criticisms and support for pro-crypto policies could influence future regulations affecting cryptocurrency investors and companies in the U.S.
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