TLDR
- Ripple CTO David Schwartz explained the real meaning behind Jack Dorsey’s “Bitcoin is not crypto” statement.
- He clarified that the absence of the article “a” changes the phrase’s interpretation in modern crypto language.
- Schwartz said Dorsey meant Bitcoin is separate from speculative tokens rather than denying its cryptographic basis.
- Jack Dorsey has long supported Bitcoin and criticized alternative cryptocurrencies for being overly speculative.
- The Ripple CTO emphasized that Bitcoin remains distinct due to its decentralization and limited supply.
David Schwartz, the Ripple CTO, has addressed Jack Dorsey’s statement that “Bitcoin is not crypto,” which sparked confusion online. Many interpreted the remark differently, misreading the linguistic implications behind the former Twitter CEO’s choice of words. Schwartz clarified the context, offering a direct explanation and shedding light on the actual meaning behind Dorsey’s phrasing.
Linguistic Nuance
The Ripple CTO noted that dropping the article “a” changes the intended meaning of Dorsey’s statement. Without it, the phrase implies Bitcoin isn’t part of today’s broader crypto category used in markets. However, including “a” would wrongly suggest Bitcoin is not a cryptocurrency at all, which is inaccurate.
"bitcoin is not crypto" =/= "bitcoin is not a crypto"
— David 'JoelKatz' Schwartz (@JoelKatz) October 20, 2025
The Ripple CTO emphasized that Dorsey’s phrasing distinguished Bitcoin from other digital assets. Some users misunderstood the statement, focusing on Bitcoin’s cryptographic foundation. Yet, Schwartz explained that Dorsey meant to exclude Bitcoin from the speculative class labeled as crypto.
He pointed out that modern investment language often treats “crypto” as a general term for alternative tokens. The Ripple CTO added that such tokens usually differ from Bitcoin in structure and perception. Therefore, Dorsey’s words reflected a long-standing ideological divide, not a technical denial of Bitcoin’s nature.
Longtime Altcoin Opponent
Jack Dorsey has supported Bitcoin since 2010 and frequently criticized altcoins for their speculative features. The Ripple CTO reminded that Dorsey’s stance aligns with Bitcoin maximalist views, which resist grouping Bitcoin with other tokens. They see “crypto” as highly speculative, contrasting it with Bitcoin’s perceived scarcity and decentralization.
Bitcoin supporters believe the term “crypto” undermines Bitcoin’s distinct value proposition. The Ripple CTO stated that Dorsey’s use of language reflects this belief. Dorsey’s criticism continues to echo among those who see Bitcoin as fundamentally different from other digital assets.
Ripple CTO’s Broader Commentary
The Ripple CTO also mentioned his upcoming departure from Ripple by year’s end. Despite stepping down, he remains active in discussions shaping crypto’s future narrative. He often challenges dominant views, especially those from the Ethereum and Bitcoin communities.
The Ripple CTO has previously criticized Ethereum’s vulnerabilities, highlighting centralization risks. He also used satire to question community biases, including posting the Ethiopian flag. This incident again shows Schwartz’s tendency to push for clarity in crypto debates.
