After the close of the high-profile Ripple lawsuit, a new era is dawning in the relationship between the SEC and cryptocurrencies. Paul Atkins, now leading the agency, has signaled a significant change in strategy, moving away from aggressive litigation towards a more collaborative approach. This shift was evident in his public statements following the case’s conclusion, where he emphasized the importance of policy development over legal battles. His focus is on establishing clear regulatory guidelines for digital assets while fostering innovation and protecting investors without stifling market growth. 2023 marked the start of this new era, as Atkins has been engaging with the crypto sector more actively through public roundtables and other initiatives. The Ripple case, however, is seen as a turning point that could facilitate a more collaborative approach between Washington and the industry.