TL;DR
- Ripple CTO David Schwartz has made his XRPL Hub fully public, sharing uptime, peer connections, and traffic data.
- He emphasizes that XRPL upgrades should focus on real-world value rather than profit-driven motives.
- XRP recently reached $2.85, outperforming Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana this quarter, highlighting growing market confidence in the network. This move reinforces transparency and encourages a data-driven approach for the future of XRP.
Ripple CTO David Schwartz has opened the XRPL Hub, previously used only internally, to public access for the first time. The hub now provides detailed uptime metrics, traffic charts, and peer connection data, along with information about historical performance trends. Schwartz noted that the node has been running on version 2.6.2 for over a month without interruptions. He even shared the hostname so operators can connect directly. Operating below full capacity, the hub has not required peer reservations, offering developers and investors a clear view of XRP’s network stability and operational efficiency.
My hub has been running 2.6.2 for more than a week now and there have been no issues. If you run an XRPL node, feel free to connect:
Hostname: hub . distributedagreement . com
Domain: distributedagreement . com
Port: 51235
PubKey:… pic.twitter.com/bcE3Dt4GPQ— David 'JoelKatz' Schwartz (@JoelKatz) December 4, 2025
Transparency Drives Discussion on XRPL Upgrades
The hub disclosure comes as discussions around XRPL programmability have gained momentum. By sharing performance data openly, Schwartz provides insight rarely seen from senior figures in blockchain networks. He cautioned against implementing new features solely to increase validator revenue. While acknowledging the appeal of allowing XRP holders to earn yield, Schwartz stressed that incentives alone are not sufficient to justify major network changes. This approach underscores careful evaluation of which upgrades deliver meaningful value, while promoting long-term resilience across the network.
Prioritizing Real-World Value and Controlled Expansion
According to Schwartz, the XRPL already offers robust financial tools that can be applied more widely. Adding complex smart-contract systems carries engineering risks and may produce unpredictable results, especially when combined with high transaction volumes. Features like the AMM upgrade, although technically sound, require evidence of real-world usage before widespread adoption. Schwartz’s strategy focuses on measured growth, ensuring the XRPL evolves in ways that address actual demand rather than introducing features purely for short-term gains or complexity. Analysts note that this approach strengthens the network’s credibility and encourages institutional participation.
Market Performance and Outlook
XRP closed the third quarter at $2.85, up 27.2% from the previous quarter, outperforming Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana. Its circulating market cap increased 29% to $170.3 billion, reflecting investor confidence. Schwartz’s transparency initiative signals a stronger focus on data-driven decisions and careful upgrades. By prioritizing measurable value and network stability, the XRPL positions itself for sustainable growth, broader adoption across payment systems, and continued relevance in the competitive crypto ecosystem.
