Who is David Schwartz? Everything you need to know

Who is David Schwartz?

David Schwartz is one of the most recognized names in the crypto industry. As Chief Cryptographer and CTO of Ripple, he helped build the foundation of the XRP ecosystem, which enables faster and cheaper global payments through blockchain technology.

Under his online pseudonym JoelKatz, he became a trusted and respected figure within the community. His contributions to the XRP Ledger (XRPL) and his public explanations on topics such as network security , interoperability, and stablecoins (like Ripple’s RLUSD) have made him one of the most influential voices in the space.

Key Takeaways

• David Schwartz, co-architect of the XRP Ledger, will leave his daily role at Ripple by the end of 2025.
• He is stepping down to spend more time with his family and to rediscover old hobbies.
• Schwartz will remain involved as CTO Emeritus and as a member of the board of directors.
• His influence on Ripple’s blockchain strategy and the broader crypto industry remains significant.
• For the XRP Army, he continues to be an icon: the man who built the technical backbone of Ripple.

From Engineer to Blockchain Pioneer

Schwartz studied Electrical Engineering at the University of Houston and began his career in the late 1980s developing distributed computing systems.
Before joining Ripple, he worked on secure cloud storage and encryption solutions for large organizations, including CNN and the NSA (a preview of his later expertise in cryptography).

When he joined Ripple Labs in 2011 as Chief Cryptographer, he played a key role in developing the XRP Ledger. In 2018, he was appointed CTO, solidifying his leadership over Ripple’s technical direction.

David Schwartz’s Farewell

In a statement on October 2, 2025, Ripple announced that David Schwartz will step down from his operational role at the end of the year.
His motivation? To spend more time with his family and to reignite his old passions.

However, this is not a full departure. Schwartz will join the board of directors and remain active as CTO Emeritus. His voice will continue to play an important role in shaping the company’s strategic direction.

Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse joked, “So, are you my boss now?” (a nod to Schwartz’s continuing influence).

A Legacy of Innovation

In his farewell message, Schwartz described his time at Ripple as “one of the greatest honors and experiences of his life.” He thanked not only Ripple’s leaders and co-founders but also the community that helped make Ripple and XRP what they are today.

For many members of the so-called XRP Army, he remains the spiritual father of the network — the man who helped lay the foundation of the XRPL — guiding it through legal battles and toward global adoption.

What Does This Mean for Ripple?

Although Schwartz’s departure marks an important moment, his legacy remains deeply tied to Ripple’s future. As a board member and advisor, he will continue to share his vision while finding more time for his personal life.

Final Thoughts

David Schwartz’s step back marks the end of an era for Ripple, but not the end of his influence. His work laid the foundation for one of the world’s most innovative blockchain networks, and his legacy will continue to shape the crypto industry for years to come.