In today’s fast-evolving crypto space, it’s easy to get swept up in talk about smart contracts, lightning-speed transactions, and low fees.
But according to Ripple’s Chief Technology Officer, David Schwartz, Bitcoin’s biggest strength isn’t about bells and whistles.
It’s about trust—and more specifically, being a bulletproof settlement layer that the entire digital finance world can count on.
Bitcoin’s Real Superpower Is Simplicity and Security
Schwartz isn’t trying to compare Bitcoin to the more programmable networks out there.
In fact, he’s doing the opposite. While many platforms are chasing functionality, Bitcoin is sticking to what it’s best at—security and decentralization.
Thanks to its proof-of-work model, Bitcoin has stood the test of time.
For over a decade, it’s kept hackers at bay, institutions engaged, and developers watching closely.
Despite its slower block times (around 10 minutes) and sometimes pricey transaction fees, its track record of stability is unmatched.
Most Bitcoin Transactions Happen Off-Chain These Days
Here’s a surprising twist—most Bitcoin transactions don’t even happen on Bitcoin’s main blockchain anymore.
Instead, they’re being routed through Layer 2 solutions like the Lightning Network, which help manage tiny payments faster and cheaper.
Other protocols, like RSK, add smart contract capabilities by building on top of Bitcoin’s secure base.
Schwartz points out that this off-chain shift actually highlights Bitcoin’s role as a foundational network, rather than limiting it.
These additional layers don’t replace Bitcoin’s chain—they depend on its strength.
Bitcoin as the Safe, Reliable Option in a Risky World
Even in a digital asset space filled with innovation, Schwartz believes Bitcoin still has a major edge.
“Bitcoin might not be flashy,” he suggests, “but when things go wrong elsewhere, you can always fall back on its proven rails.”
He even compared Bitcoin’s ecosystem to how XRP can be used on EVM-compatible sidechains.
The activity might not take place on the original blockchain, but it still draws power and trust from the base currency.
For Schwartz, this shows why Bitcoin will continue to be a currency of choice, especially as the global financial system leans further into digital assets.
Developers Still Trust Bitcoin to Hold Value First
Why do some developers build features elsewhere but lock value in BTC first? Because Bitcoin offers something rare in crypto: peace of mind.
While many newer blockchains advertise speed and low costs, none have proven themselves as reliable over time like Bitcoin has.
That’s why companies often park assets in Bitcoin before bridging to faster or cheaper networks.
It’s all about balancing security versus feature sets—and Bitcoin wins on the security front.
A Market Giant That Just Keeps Climbing
Bitcoin recently broke above $123,000, pushing its total market cap past $2.4 trillion.
That puts it above tech titans like Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, and NVIDIA. Only gold ranks higher when you stack up all global assets.
This kind of milestone turns heads.
For many analysts, it’s further proof that Bitcoin’s strong foundation continues to attract both institutional and individual investors.
Of course, volatility remains a factor—but when it comes to long-term resilience, Bitcoin’s position in the top six is a loud and clear signal.
A Backbone in the Digital Asset Revolution
At the end of the day, Schwartz’s message is clear: Bitcoin’s role doesn’t need to be everything to everyone.
It just needs to keep doing what it does best—offer a secure, trustless foundation for other networks to build on.
In a space filled with complexity and risk, Bitcoin’s simple design might just be its most powerful asset.