Crypto influencer Amelie (@_Crypto_Barbie) recently shared comments made by Ripple CTO David Schwartz from 2020, where he detailed his vision for a partnership between Ripple and SWIFT. Schwartz envisioned a scenario where SWIFT’s banks would gain free access to Ripple’s payment network, potentially even paying SWIFT for this opportunity. His dream was aligned with Ripple’s XRP strategy as it aimed to accelerate adoption of XRP across the global banking system. 2020’s comments highlight how Ripple once viewed integration with SWIFT as a strategic path for XRP growth. However, recent developments suggest this vision no longer aligns with Ripple’s current direction. 2023 saw Ripple’s CEO Brad Garlinghouse openly criticize SWIFT’s messaging-based system, highlighting its outdated approach compared to Ripple’s real-time settlement and tokenized liquidity solutions. This criticism reflects the competitive rivalry between the two organizations. While Ripple may have once considered collaboration with SWIFT, current leadership signals a shift toward positioning Ripple as a direct replacement for SWIFT. This is reflected in the company’s focus on deploying its network, emphasizing transparency, speed, and on-chain settlement. Garlinghouse has repeatedly spoken about moving past SWIFT’s legacy system. The potential for instant cross-border payments with XRP is driving this new vision. While Schwartz once imagined a possible partnership between SWIFT and Ripple as a ‘dream scenario,’ Ripple’s current strategy reflects a complete departure from that initial vision. The company now views itself as the foundation for a new financial system independent of SWIFT, rather than merely an alternative for legacy banking rails.