Ripple CLO Calls Out SEC’s Rule Violation, Court Agrees

As an analyst with a background in securities law and experience following regulatory developments, I find this latest court ruling against the SEC for illegally rescinding the Proxy Advisory Firms Rule to be of significant importance. The Administrative Procedure Act (APA) is a fundamental tenet of administrative law that requires federal agencies to follow specific procedures when adopting, amending, or repealing rules.


In a recent turn of events, a court has invalidated the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)’s decision to revoke a rule concerning proxy advisory firms, as it was found to be in violation of the Administrative Procedure Act. Notably, this action was reportedly instigated by SEC Chairman Gary Gensler himself. Ripple‘s General Counsel, Stuart Alderoty, brought attention to this development.

The SEC’s Proxy Advisory Firms Rule, introduced in 2020, aims to promote openness and responsibility by mandating that proxy advisory firms simultaneously distribute their voting suggestions to both the advised companies and their clients. Additionally, it requires disclosure of potential conflicts of interest and grants companies an opportunity to examine and comment on the recommendations prior to their finalization.

In a recent ruling, a court has critically reprimanded the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). This censure stemmed from their alleged violation of the Administrative Procedure Act in the sudden cancellation of a regulation concerning proxy advisory firms. The court clarified that it was Chairman Gensler who orchestrated this questionable action.

— Stuart Alderoty (@s_alderoty) June 27, 2024

In the legal case, National Association of Manufacturers vs. SEC, it was decided in November 2021 that the unenforced proxy rule would be invalidated. This ruling came just a month prior to when proxy companies were supposed to adhere to the new rule’s requirements.

Based on court records, the revocation procedure initiated promptly following Gary Gensler’s appointment as SEC chairman in June 2021. In turn, Gensler instructed his team to reassess the rule and temporarily halted its implementation during this period.

Pressure

The lawyers representing Ripple, alongside other high-ranking officials, have been vocal critics of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and its management recently. This is notably significant given that Ripple has been engaged in a prolonged legal dispute with the regulatory body, which commenced over three years ago.

As I delve deeper into the world of cryptocurrencies, the approaching autumn season brings mounting pressure upon both the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Gary Gensler. This duo is not only dealing with Ripple’s challenges but also facing scrutiny from the larger crypto industry. Furthermore, traditional industry voices are growing increasingly vocal about their concerns regarding the SEC’s current regulatory approach and leadership.

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2024-06-27 16:37