Ripple CTO David Schwartz, a prominent figure known for his contributions to the XRPL, recently garnered attention for a social media post that subtly referenced a legendary "what if" scenario from his past. This incident resurfaced a compelling story of an early Ethereum investment, a profitable sale, and the astronomical opportunity cost that continues to be a point of fascination and discussion within the cryptocurrency community.
A Profitable Early Exit
Schwartz's cryptic post featuring solar panels was a deep-cut reference for those familiar with his personal crypto journey. It harks back to his decision to invest in Ethereum during its 2015 Initial Coin Offering (ICO), where he acquired 40,000 ETH at a price of just $0.311 per coin. When the price of ETH later surged to $1, Schwartz made the strategic move to sell his entire holdings. This decision resulted in a significant 321.5% return on his investment, profits which he then wisely allocated towards purchasing solar panels for practical, sustainable use.
The Astronomical "What If"
While Schwartz's initial sale was undeniably profitable, his story is predominantly remembered for the staggering potential gains he ultimately forewent. Had he held onto his 40,000 Ethereum coins instead of selling, that investment would today be worth an astounding $188,000,000, representing an unbelievable 1,521,498% profit. This "what if" scenario is a staple in crypto lore, frequently discussed across forums and social media as one of the most remarkable missed opportunities in the industry. It underscores the unpredictable volatility of early crypto assets and the fine line between a substantial profit and an unimaginable fortune, even if his initial decision was a sensible and practical one at the time.
