Emily Walker
Changpeng Zhao, known as CZ and the co-founder of Binance, made a notable appearance at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai following his recent release from Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc II, where he spent four months due to inadequate anti-money laundering practices at Binance.
A Fond Connection to Binance’s Future
As supporters cheered, some hailed him as a “martyr,” while others exclaimed, “the king is back.” Nonetheless, Zhao’s return doesn’t mean he’ll resume leadership at Binance, as his plea agreement with the Department of Justice (DOJ) prevents him from reclaiming that role.
Reflecting on his experience, CZ stated in a Bloomberg interview, “I don’t think I want to go back to being Binance’s chief executive officer. I’ve led the company for seven years, and while I enjoyed it, I feel that chapter is closed.”
During his time in prison, Zhao focused on fitness, writing a book, and discussing cryptocurrency with fellow inmates. He describes himself as a “passive investor” who has received offers to sell his dominant share in Binance, which constitutes a major part of his fortune.
Despite being open to these offers, he has not made any final decisions regarding his 90% stake in the exchange.
Zhao’s exit from active leadership followed Binance’s agreement to a $4.3 billion settlement for regulatory violations, and now the company is being managed by new CEO Richard Teng, along with a restructured board aiming for better compliance with global regulations.
Insights from the interview revealed that Zhao still has a strong connection to Binance, as his substantial ownership maintains his influence over the company’s trajectory. He admits to a deep emotional bond with the organization.
Investments Beyond Cryptocurrency
Amid Zhao’s return, the political environment in the US is changing, particularly with Donald Trump’s recent election victory, which is seen as favorable for crypto prices. Zhao’s wealth has surged close to $53 billion.
The emergence of a pro-crypto leadership under Trump is viewed positively following a period of intense oversight under President Biden and the SEC.
Zhao has expressed optimism regarding the crypto market and Binance’s future, noting the enhancements at X (formerly Twitter), where Binance invested $500 million during Elon Musk’s buyout. He remarked on the increased pace of innovation since Musk assumed control.
Now reunited with his family, Zhao is exploring interests beyond cryptocurrency. He is contemplating investments in artificial intelligence (AI) and biotech while also planning to establish a nonprofit educational initiative called Giggle Academy. Although he has stepped back from active roles at Binance, he still faces several civil lawsuits, including those led by the SEC.
Reflecting on his journey, he compares his bond with Binance to a parent’s feelings as a child gains independence. While he does not seek to return to the CEO position, he acknowledges his enduring relationship with the company he founded. “It’s like a kid; once it grows up, it doesn’t need to be attached to me,” he stated.
As of now, Binance Coin (BNB) is trading at $599, up 2.5% in the last 24 hours.
Image created by DALL-E, chart sourced from TradingView.com