A federal appeals court has upheld the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission's (SEC) 'gag rule,' rejecting claims that it unlawfully silences defendants who wish to criticize the regulator after settling civil enforcement cases. The ruling was issued by the 9th Circuit Court, affirming the SEC's authority to impose such restrictions. Meanwhile, the SEC is scheduled to deliberate on August 7 regarding Ripple's motion to withdraw its appeal in its ongoing legal battle with the regulator. This development follows Ripple's decision to potentially end its appeal, with discussions focusing on the future of the case and related market implications.