Ripple CTO David Schwartz Steps Down After Years of Leadership

A key figure in the crypto world, David Schwartz, Chief Technology Officer of Ripple, announces his retirement. This planned departure redefines roles within the company while preserving strategic continuity.

A major crypto player leaves the operational stage

On September 30, 2025, David Schwartz confirms that he will leave his duties as CTO at Ripple at the end of the year. This pillar of the crypto ecosystem now wishes to devote himself to his family and personal passions.

Schwartz, an influential developer in the crypto sector, largely contributed to the creation of the XRP Ledger. He joined Ripple at its inception and has held the role of CTO since 2018, succeeding:

• Stefan Thomas;
• Jed McCaleb (another crypto pioneer).

In his message, he reflects on his journey. From his years at the NSA to his involvement in creating the XRP Ledger, he speaks of a career marked by some of the most enriching experiences. His departure thus marks a milestone in Ripple’s evolution, one of the flagship companies in the crypto sector.

David Schwartz remains in the crypto ecosystem via the board of directors

While the iconic CTO leaves the technical leadership, he does not abandon the crypto scene. David Schwartz indeed joins Ripple’s board of directors. He will hold the position of Emeritus CTO. He will thus continue to participate in strategic reflections while maintaining a link with the XRP community.

Reactions were swift. Brad Garlinghouse, CEO of Ripple, paid tribute to his colleague by humorously stating on X:

Wait…does this mean you’re my boss now!?!

For her part, Ripple Chairwoman Monica Long praised Schwartz’s ingenuity, integrity, and humility. She recalled the importance of his work to build the crypto community around XRP.

David Schwartz thus embodies a generation of builders in the crypto sector. His gradual retreat does not signal an end but a repositioning at the heart of Ripple’s governance. For now, no name has yet been announced to succeed him in technical leadership.