Get to Know XDC Founder

The blockchain world is driven by bold thinkers who are reshaping industries—and Atul Khekade is one of them. As the co-founder of the XDC Network, Khekade’s journey from fintech entrepreneur to blockchain pioneer has helped position XDC as a game-changer in global trade and finance. 

This article takes you through Atul’s background, the creation of the XDC Network, and how his leadership continues to push blockchain adoption into real-world applications. Whether you're just starting to explore cryptocurrency or you’re deep into the world of decentralized finance, understanding the mind behind XDC offers key insights into where the industry is headed.

The Visionary Behind XDC Network

Atul Khekade brings a rare combination of technical know-how and entrepreneurial vision. He began his academic path in computer engineering and later earned a degree in information technology. Along the way, he took part in executive programs at top institutions like MIT, Stanford, and Harvard, deepening his understanding of innovation and product development under global thought leaders.

Early in his career, Khekade worked as a consultant on large-scale digital transformation projects. This experience laid the foundation for his next big move—co-founding XinFin, the company behind the XDC Network. With a strong grasp of how outdated systems slowed down global trade, he saw blockchain as a way to bring speed, transparency, and cost-efficiency to the process. Today, as Founding Director of the XDC Foundation, Atul continues to lead the network with a focus on practical impact and long-term utility.

Educational Background

Atul Khekade began his academic journey at Government Polytechnic, earning a Diploma in Computer Engineering from 1997 to 2000. He then pursued a Bachelor's degree in Information Technology at Sardar Patel College of Engineering, completing it in 2003. In 2006, he participated in an executive education program in the USA, focusing on innovation and product development, which further honed his skills in technology and business management.

Career Progression

Khekade's professional career commenced in 1997 as a freelance software programmer, where he gained extensive experience in systems and web programming, working with languages like C++, Visual Basic, Java, and Oracle. He contributed to the development of distributed systems, core banking systems, and payment systems during this period. 

In 2004, he joined Oracle Financial Services Software Ltd as an Associate Consultant, playing a pivotal role in developing Citigroup's global transaction system, designed to handle trillions of dollars in transactions monthly. 

Khekade also served as a Consultant for SmartStream Technologies, a UK-based company specializing in transaction processing systems, where he worked on projects for banks such as Wells Fargo and Bank of America. 

In April 2005, he became a Partner at Netz Capital Advisors LLP, an asset management and investment fund advisory firm, advising large transactions in various sectors including real estate, technology, and manufacturing.

In 2017, Khekade co-founded XinFin Hybrid Blockchain, now known as the XDC Network, aiming to create a blockchain tailored for global trade and finance complexities. As the Founding Director of the XDC Foundation, he continues to lead initiatives that bridge traditional finance with decentralized systems. 

Entrepreneurial Ventures

Beyond his roles in established firms, Khekade has co-founded several ventures: 

• Innovation Trip: A company based in the San Francisco Bay Area, where he served as Co-Founder and COO, designing corporate training programs in innovation for senior executives.
   
• Airnetz: A provider of on-demand private jet and helicopter services worldwide.
   
• TradeFinex: A decentralized finance (DeFi) protocol built on the XDC Network, focusing on trade finance solutions.

Khekade's diverse experiences and ventures underscore his commitment to leveraging technology to create practical solutions in finance and beyond.

The Birth and Evolution of XDC Network

The XDC Network launched in 2017, co-founded by Atul Khekade and Ritesh Kakkad through XinFin, with a bold mission: to create a blockchain tailored for the complexities of global trade and finance. Unlike traditional public chains, XDC’s hybrid architecture merges the transparency of public ledgers with the privacy and control of private networks. This allows enterprises to protect sensitive data while still leveraging the benefits of decentralization.

At its core, the network runs on a delegated Proof of Stake (XDPoS) consensus mechanism—designed to improve scalability and energy efficiency, making it ideal for enterprise use. It's also EVM-compatible, which means developers can easily build decentralized applications (dApps) for use cases like trade finance, payments, and supply chain management. Since its launch, XDC has attracted a growing community of developers, financial institutions, and businesses looking to use blockchain for real-world solutions.

XDC Network’s Impact on Trade and Finance

Traditional systems in trade and finance are often bogged down by slow processes, high fees, and limited transparency. XDC Network was built to address these pain points. Its technology enables real-time asset tracking, secure verification, and efficient tokenization—all key to modernizing global trade.

One of the network’s standout features is its compatibility with ISO 20022, the global messaging standard for financial systems. This makes it easier for institutions to integrate blockchain technology without overhauling their existing infrastructure. The native XDC token powers everything from staking and governance to accessing decentralized apps on the network.

By helping businesses manage liquidity, reduce risk, and unlock capital more efficiently, XDC is transforming the $5 trillion-per-day trade finance industry. Its energy-efficient design also makes it an eco-conscious choice, positioning it among the most sustainable blockchains available today.

Also Read: XDC Network: Revolutionizing DeFi with High-Speed Transaction and Low Fees

Atul Khekade’s Ongoing Leadership and Vision

Khekade’s influence goes beyond technical development—he’s also a strategic leader who drives partnerships, ecosystem growth, and community engagement. As head of the XDC Foundation, he works closely with developers, trade experts, and content creators to support adoption and innovation across the network.

One of his most ambitious initiatives is the upcoming XDC 2.0 upgrade, aimed at enhancing the network’s liquidity, performance, and overall scalability. Through thoughtful planning and cross-industry collaboration, Atul continues to bridge the gap between traditional finance and decentralized systems, making XDC not just another blockchain, but a practical solution for real-world challenges.

Conclusion

Atul Khekade’s path from fintech founder to blockchain leader is a powerful example of how visionary thinking can turn complex ideas into tangible solutions. Under his guidance, the XDC Network has evolved into a trusted platform for global trade and finance—one that’s scalable, efficient, and sustainable. His leadership remains central to the network’s continued growth, bringing blockchain closer to mainstream adoption. For anyone curious about where blockchain is headed next, getting to know the story of XDC’s founder is a great place to start.

FAQ

Who is the founder of XDC Network?
Atul Khekade is the co-founder and visionary leader behind XDC Network, along with Ritesh Kakkad and Karan Bhardwaj.

What is the main focus of XDC Network?
XDC Network aims to streamline global trade and finance through a hybrid blockchain that combines the benefits of both public and private networks.

What makes XDC Network unique?
Its hybrid architecture, energy-efficient delegated Proof of Stake mechanism, and compatibility with global financial standards make it ideal for enterprise use.

How does Atul Khekade contribute to XDC’s growth?
Atul leads the XDC Foundation, oversees ecosystem development, and drives initiatives that focus on practical, real-world applications of blockchain technology.

Is XDC Network environmentally friendly?
Yes, its delegated Proof of Stake model significantly reduces energy consumption, making XDC a greener alternative to traditional blockchains.