The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has officially filed an appeal in the Ripple lawsuit, seeking to classify the cryptocurrency $XRP as a security. This move comes as the SEC's authority over the cryptocurrency industry faces increased scrutiny. A recent ruling from the Third Circuit Court ordered the SEC to provide a more comprehensive rationale for denying Coinbase's request for specific crypto regulations. The court's decision emphasizes the need for clearer guidelines in the cryptocurrency sector, which has been characterized by what some have termed an 'enforcement-by-surprise' approach. Coinbase has also filed a motion to the Second Circuit for permission to proceed with an interlocutory appeal, allowing the SEC ten days to respond. The developments signal a potential shift in regulatory dynamics as Gary Gensler's tenure at the SEC approaches its conclusion.