Jed McCaleb, the founder of Ripple and Stellar, has been at the forefront of technological innovation in the fields of cryptocurrency and blockchain. His latest venture, Vast, aims to develop artificial-gravity space stations for long-term human habitation.
McCaleb’s journey is a testament to his visionary thinking and relentless pursuit of disruptive ideas. From his early ventures in peer-to-peer technology to his groundbreaking work in digital currencies, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation.
In 2000, McCaleb launched eDonkey2000, a peer-to-peer file-sharing network that quickly became one of the most popular platforms of its time. He later founded Mt. Gox, which grew to become the world’s largest Bitcoin exchange before its eventual collapse in 2011.
After leaving Mt. Gox, McCaleb co-founded Ripple Labs in 2012, introducing the Ripple system and its native cryptocurrency, XRP. Ripple revolutionized cross-border payments with its instant, secure, and low-cost transactions. He went on to establish Stellar in 2014, aiming to increase financial inclusion through easier production, sending, and trading of digital currencies.
In 2021, McCaleb founded Vast, an aerospace company dedicated to developing artificial gravity space stations for long-term human habitation. This ambitious project envisions a future where millions of people live and work in space, utilizing the resources of the solar system to sustain human civilization.
Beyond his professional endeavors, McCaleb is known for his philanthropic efforts, having donated millions of dollars in Bitcoin to various causes. His commitment to decentralization and belief in the transformative power of blockchain technology drive both his professional and humanitarian initiatives.
Recently, McCaleb has turned his focus to artificial intelligence, founding Voltage Park to provide access to high-performance computing for machine learning workloads. This initiative addresses the AI chip shortage and aims to accelerate innovation in the field of AI.
McCaleb’s ability to identify technological gaps and develop impactful solutions has solidified his influence in the technology industry. His dedication to harnessing technology for global good underscores his commitment to creating a more equitable and innovative world.