Ripple CTO Debunks XRP vs Bitcoin Supply Debate: Calls Out Misleading Comparisons

• Ripple CTO David Schwartz debunks misleading comparisons between XRP and Bitcoin.
• He argues that supply and unit price are not valid metrics for comparison.
• Schwartz believes evaluating based on “full coins” rather than market cap or utility distorts value perception.

A debate recently unfolded in the crypto community over the differences in how XRP and Bitcoin are promoted. An XRP supporter pointed out that Ripple executives—including CEO Brad Garlinghouse and CTO David Schwartz—have never actively encouraged people to buy XRP. 

This was contrasted with MicroStrategy’s Michael Saylor, who consistently advocates for Bitcoin. The supporter implied that assets requiring direct promotion might have underlying weaknesses, sparking responses from the community.

Critic Argues XRP and Bitcoin Aren’t the Same

Crypto commentator CryptoApostle responded by highlighting the difference in supply between Bitcoin’s 21 million coins and XRP’s 100 billion. He suggested that Bitcoin’s scarcity makes it more necessary to “point people in the right direction,” implying that XRP does not face the same limitations.

However, Ripple’s David Schwartz challenged this perspective, arguing that supply comparisons between XRP and Bitcoin are often misleading.

Related: Ripple CTO Challenges Bitcoin Supply Scarcity Claims in Heated Debate

Ripple CTO Refutes “Full Coin” Comparisons

Specifically, Schwartz emphasized that measuring crypto assets in “full coins” without considering market cap or divisibility leads to misinformation. He compared it to measuring distances in inches versus miles, saying such comparisons distort the true value and utility of each asset.

CryptoApostle maintained that people naturally compare whole coins rather than smaller units like satoshis or drops. He also pointed out that Ripple’s partnerships with banks indirectly market XRP, even if executives do not explicitly promote buying it.

Related: Ripple CTO Makes The Case For XRP Inclusion in Crypto Stockpile

Meanwhile, Schwartz maintained that supply and price-per-coin are often misused in investment decisions. He noted that some investors believe XRP is a better buy simply because it appears cheaper per unit compared to Bitcoin—a narrative he believes is harmful.

“You can’t compare the prices for ‘one coin’ for precisely the same reason you can’t compare the supplies measured in ‘number of coins,'” Schwartz stated, reinforcing the importance of accurate comparisons.

Essentially, the discussion highlights the issue of evaluating crypto assets based on supply or unit price rather than fundamental value. It stresses that market participants must look beyond surface-level comparisons to make informed decisions.