TLDR
- David Schwartz said he avoids sharing strong optimism about XRP due to manipulation concerns.
- He described it as kind of sad that he cannot freely express bullish crypto views.
- Schwartz stated that critics often misread executive comments as self-serving actions.
- He defended his past sales of XRP, Bitcoin, and Ethereum as personal financial decisions.
- Schwartz rejected the idea that selling crypto is morally inferior to buying.
Ripple executive David Schwartz said he restrains his optimism about $XRP and digital assets due to manipulation concerns. He explained that public enthusiasm from industry leaders can attract claims of self-interest. Consequently, he described the situation as “kind of sad” in a recent post on X.
David Schwartz Addresses XRP Optimism and Public Scrutiny
David Schwartz, Ripple’s Chief Technology Officer Emeritus, shared his concerns directly with followers on X. He said he avoids sharing strong bullish views about XRP and cryptocurrencies. He explained that critics could misread his comments as self-serving or manipulative.
It's kind of sad that I don't feel comfortable sharing my optimism about XRP (and even, to some extent, cryptocurrencies generally) because it could be perceived as self-serving or, worse, deliberate manipulation.
— David 'JoelKatz' Schwartz (@JoelKatz) May 6, 2026
“It’s kind of sad that I don’t feel comfortable sharing my optimism about XRP,” Schwartz wrote publicly.
He added that some people could see such comments as deliberate market manipulation. Therefore, he said he chooses restraint despite personal confidence.
Schwartz stated that his position increases scrutiny over every public comment. He said observers often link executive statements to token price movements. As a result, he believes even genuine views can trigger backlash.
He expressed regret that his role limits open discussion. However, he maintained that he prefers transparency over silence. Still, he balances openness with awareness of market sensitivity.
He confirmed that he remains optimistic about digital assets generally. Yet he clarified that he avoids framing comments in ways that could influence trading behavior. Thus, he keeps certain views private.
Bitcoin and Ethereum Sales Spark Debate Over Selling
Schwartz linked this hesitation to criticism over his past crypto sales. He defended his decisions to sell portions of his XRP holdings. He also referenced prior sales of Bitcoin and Ethereum.
“Everyone had the same opportunity to buy and sell XRP that I did,” he said. He added that he treated Bitcoin and ETH the same way. He rejected claims that selling represents moral failure.
He criticized the “diamond hands” culture that discourages profit-taking. He said he supports pragmatic risk management instead. Therefore, he encourages individuals to sell when it fits their financial interests.
“I utterly reject the idea that selling is somehow morally inferior to buying,” Schwartz wrote. He said he has long advised people to act in their own interest. He maintained that markets operate as level playing fields.
Schwartz also described earlier trades involving Bitcoin and XRP. He said he exchanged Bitcoin for 26 million XRP. Later, he sold a large portion when the price reached $0.10.
He explained that holding millions in a volatile asset caused discomfort. Consequently, he reduced exposure despite potential future gains. He has previously acknowledged missing higher valuations after those sales.
🚨 Our MAY Stock Picks Are Live!
A new month means new opportunities. Our analysts have just released their top stock picks for May, highlighting companies with strong momentum that rank highly on our KO Score algorithm. We’re also now sharing trade ideas for both long-term and short-term investors, giving you more ways to spot potential opportunities in the market.
Sign up to Knockout Stocks today and get 50% off to unlock the full list and see which stocks made the cut.
Use coupon code Special50 for your exclusive discount!
Get 3 Free Stock Ebooks
Discover top-performing stocks in AI, Crypto, and Technology with expert analysis.
- Top 10 AI Stocks - Leading AI companies
- Top 10 Crypto Stocks - Blockchain leaders
- Top 10 Tech Stocks - Tech giants
