- Coinbase defeated the SEC, protecting the U.S. crypto industry from regulatory overreach.
- Coinbase victory ensures a clearer legal path for crypto assets and industry growth.
Coinbase’s battle with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has finally come to an end. On February 21, CEO Brian Armstrong took to social media to explain why resisting the SEC’s lawsuit was crucial. According to Armstrong, the SEC had crossed a line by demanding that Coinbase delist certain crypto assets. He stressed that these assets were not securities, and the regulator had exceeded its authority.
“The SEC was wrong on the law,” Armstrong declared. He pointed out that the agency’s request contradicted Coinbase’s strict listing policies. More importantly, he noted that the SEC had previously approved Coinbase public listing. “Regulators can’t make up new laws on the spot,” Armstrong said, highlighting the inconsistency in their approach.
Protecting the Future of U.S. Crypto
Armstrong warned that giving in to the SEC’s demands would have severely hurt the U.S. crypto market. Compliance would have limited the range of available assets, forcing companies to relocate overseas. “If we had caved, the industry would have been pushed into the shadows,” he stated.
He described the lawsuit as an intimidation tactic driven by political motives. The CEO emphasized that unchecked regulatory overreach could cripple an entire sector. This fight wasn’t just about Coinbase—it was about defending the broader crypto ecosystem.
Coinbase Victory Signals a Turning Point for the Industry
The court’s decision to side with Coinbase sends a strong message. It shows that regulators can’t bypass legal limits without facing consequences. Armstrong urged other crypto firms to challenge unlawful actions, stressing that standing up is necessary to ensure the industry’s survival.
This win highlights the importance of judicial checks on regulatory power. By resisting the SEC, Base has paved the way for a more stable and predictable environment for U.S. crypto firms.