Once-in-a-Generation

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Crypto is a “Once-in-a-Generation” Chance to Get Rich, Says <a href="https://jpyxx.com/xrp-usd/">Ripple</a> EX CTO David Schwartz

David Schwartz, the former Chief Technology Officer of Ripple, believes cryptocurrency presents a rare opportunity to build significant wealth. However, he’s personally moved the majority of his money *out* of crypto, explaining that it helps him relax and sleep better.

JoelKatz, a longtime executive at Ripple who uses the X handle JoelKatz, recently revealed he once sold Ethereum for only $1.05. He shared this while explaining his decision, well before the cryptocurrency’s value surged to around $2,368.

As a researcher, I understand cryptocurrency could be a huge opportunity, a potentially life-changing one that might already be slipping away. Honestly, I’m prepared to accept that I might miss out on a lot of it. I’ve decided to focus my investment on Ripple, and that gives me peace of mind – it allows me to sleep soundly at night knowing I’ve taken a calculated risk.

— David ‘JoelKatz’ Schwartz (@JoelKatz) May 4, 2026

The Crypto Bet He Walked Away From

Schwartz admitted he always doubted Ethereum would become as valuable as it is today. He clarified it wasn’t a problem with the underlying technology, but rather he couldn’t envision a realistic way for it to achieve such a high price.

Schwartz said he wouldn’t have sold his asset for $1.05 if he’d believed there was even a small chance – just 1% – it could reach $2,368. He still questions whether the possibility of it reaching that price was actually greater than 1% when he made the sale.

He explained that this approach has been central to his investment strategy. Schwartz consistently chooses reliable investments over risky ones, despite having often profited from more speculative bets throughout his career.

Generational Wealth With a Catch

Schwartz believes the potential of cryptocurrency is significant, but acknowledges he won’t likely benefit from most of it. He’s decreased the amount of XRP he owns and is trying to minimize his investments in cryptocurrencies beyond his shares in Ripple.

Despite selling off a large portion of his XRP, he still owns over one million, showing he remains a significant investor in the cryptocurrency. While he’s reduced his holdings considerably, his remaining XRP is still worth several million dollars, depending on the current market value.

I realize even what I consider a small amount is still over a million. I used to own 26 million XRP.

— David ‘JoelKatz’ Schwartz (@JoelKatz) May 4, 2026

The Ripple co-founder explained he’s not one to hold onto investments hoping for a big comeback – he prefers to be a practical, cautious investor, even if it means missing out on potential gains.

The Crypto Billionaire He Did Not Become

Schwartz admitted his cautious approach to crypto meant he missed out on potentially becoming a billionaire. While he could have held onto his cryptocurrency for a longer period and possibly achieved that level of wealth, he believes the security of his current situation was a worthwhile exchange.

These comments come as XRP investors are closely following any news from Ripple’s executives. David Schwartz’s warning might worry those hoping for a massive price increase, although he believes the chance for significant gains hasn’t passed.

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2026-05-05 09:06