币界网报道：A U.S. judge has denied Ripple Labs' request to reduce its $125 million penalty in the ongoing SEC lawsuit over XRP sales. The ruling upholds the previously imposed fine, marking another setback for the blockchain company in its lengthy legal battle with regulators. Ripple had argued the penalty was excessive compared to similar cases, but Judge Sarah Netburn found the amount appropriate given the circumstances. The decision comes as Ripple continues to contest the SEC's allegations that its XRP token constitutes an unregistered security. While the company scored a partial victory last year when the court ruled programmatic XRP sales didn't violate securities laws, institutional sales remain at issue. Legal experts suggest this latest ruling may influence settlement negotiations as both parties prepare for a potential trial in 2024. Ripple maintains its position that XRP should not be classified as a security, a stance supported by many in the crypto industry who view the case as pivotal for regulatory clarity.