NEW YORK – The judge overseeing the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) lawsuit against cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase is expected to make a decision within the next three months, according to a Citigroup analyst. Judge Katherine Polk Failla heard arguments from both sides earlier this week but stated that she would not make an immediate ruling. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for Coinbase and its future operations.
Citigroup analyst Peter Christiansen provided a legal analysis of the situation, acknowledging that the dispute is unlikely to be resolved quickly through motions alone. He highlighted the regulatory risks facing Coinbase and the potential impact of any ruling on the company. Christiansen also raised his price target for Coinbase from $90 to $151, indicating his belief in the company’s long-term potential.
The SEC filed a lawsuit against Coinbase in June, alleging that the cryptocurrency exchange was operating as an unregistered securities broker. If Judge Failla denies Coinbase’s request to dismiss the lawsuit, it could result in a lengthy discovery phase before reaching a summary judgment. Legal expert James Murphy, cited by Christiansen, suggested that this process could take a year or longer.
Christiansen outlined several potential outcomes of the case. In the most favorable scenario for Coinbase, the court could grant its motion to dismiss with prejudice. However, the SEC would still have the option to file an appeal. Alternatively, the court could grant Coinbase’s motion to dismiss without prejudice, allowing the SEC to amend its complaint. Christiansen also noted the possibility of the court granting Coinbase’s motion in part, resulting in the dismissal of one aspect of the SEC’s complaint while another area proceeds to discovery.
The outcome of this lawsuit will be closely watched by the cryptocurrency industry as it could set a precedent for how regulators view and treat digital assets. Coinbase, as one of the largest and most prominent cryptocurrency exchanges, has been under increased scrutiny as regulators seek to establish clearer guidelines for the industry.
In the coming months, the judge’s decision in this case will have significant implications not only for Coinbase but for the broader cryptocurrency market. It remains to be seen how this legal battle will unfold and what impact it will have on the regulatory landscape surrounding cryptocurrencies. As investors and industry observers await the judge’s ruling, the future of Coinbase hangs in the balance.