Every project in the cryptocurrency space reaches a moment of transition, when its direction is more about the strength of the network and the adoption surrounding it. The XRP community is now in that stage.
Ripple’s longtime Chief Technology Officer (CTO), David Schwartz, has announced his decision to step back from his daily role, marking a significant milestone for both Ripple and XRP.
Ripple Bull Winkle (@RipBullWinkle), a prominent crypto expert and researcher on X, released a video offering his perspective on the news. He remarked that “every revolution has a moment when the builder steps aside,” comparing Schwartz’s decision with Satoshi leaving Bitcoin and leadership transitions in Ethereum.
He framed Schwartz’s move as XRP reaching that same stage, where its growth no longer depends on one figure but on the strength of the network and adoption surrounding it.
The JOB COMPLETE Signal Is Here 🚀 #XRP’s Endgame Next!!! pic.twitter.com/icfKsr8WQv
— Ripple Bull Winkle | Crypto Researcher 🚀🚨 (October 2, 2025)
The Next Phase for XRP
Schwartz has not departed from Ripple entirely; he will transition into an emeritus role and maintain involvement on the company’s board. This adjustment means Ripple retains Schwartz’s expertise while allowing new leadership to guide the next phase of growth.
Bull Winkle framed Schwartz’s decision as a signal of strength rather than weakness, remarking that “he didn’t leave here because of weakness. He left because XRP is strong enough to run without him.”
The timing of his step back is central to the narrative. Ripple has built relationships with over 300 banking and financial institutions worldwide, a foundation that continues to support the case for XRP’s long-term utility in cross-border payments and settlement.
As partnerships expand, the role of an individual executive becomes less central to XRP’s path forward, reinforcing the argument that the digital asset is now positioned for institutional‑scale growth.
Anticipation for ETFs and Institutional Demand
A key factor shaping the current anticipation is the prospect of U.S.-based spot XRP exchange‑traded funds (ETFs). Several pending applications have October deadlines, creating heightened expectations. This window could mark a turning point for XRP and bring a new wave of institutional investment into the ecosystem.
Ripple Bull Winkle linked Schwartz’s step back to this development, saying it comes “right when ETFs, banks, and institutional adoption are all lined up for XRP.” He sees the transition as timely and aligned with broader momentum.
Schwartz will remain involved as a strategic voice in the community. Ripple’s partnerships worldwide and upcoming ETF decisions position XRP for one of its most significant periods yet. As Bull Winkle put it, “The rails are built. Now comes the flood of money.”
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