Speculation around a potential return of Changpeng Zhao (CZ) to Binance has finally been put to rest. The crypto entrepreneur has confirmed that he will not reclaim any leadership role at the exchange, even after receiving a presidential pardon that lifted his legal limitations.
Speaking during the World Economic Forum in Davos, CZ told CNBC’s Andrew Ross Sorkin that he has moved on from running the crypto exchange he founded, effectively closing the chapter on his executive career at Binance.
The clarification ends months of anticipation within the crypto market, where many believed the pardon could trigger a dramatic comeback. Instead, CZ appears focused on redefining his influence beyond exchange operations.
Binance Moves Forward Under New Leadership
Binance is now fully led by co-CEOs Richard Teng and Yi He, appointed in late 2025. The new leadership team is steering the company toward regulatory compliance, institutional trust, and operational stability.
This marks a departure from Binance’s earlier growth phase, which was driven by rapid expansion and founder-led decision-making. While the new direction reduces regulatory exposure, it also prompts debate about whether Binance can maintain its innovative culture without its iconic founder at the helm.
CZ Repositions His Role in the Crypto Ecosystem
CZ’s decision not to return does not indicate a retreat from crypto. Rather, it reflects a strategic shift away from daily management toward long-term influence and impact.
A key example is Giggle Academy, a free digital education platform for children at primary and secondary school levels. The initiative focuses on reading, numeracy, storytelling, emotional intelligence, and basic financial literacy, supported by AI-powered personalisation.
By investing in education, CZ is applying technology in a less regulated sector while pursuing what he has described as a deeply personal project.
Long-Term Investing Through YZi Labs
Investment activity remains a major pillar of CZ’s post-Binance agenda. Through YZi Labs, his family office managing over $10 billion, he is selectively backing projects across crypto infrastructure, developer tools, and emerging technologies.
CZ has stated that 98% of his personal holdings are in BNB, with a small allocation to Bitcoin. He avoids speculative trading, favouring long-term commitments. Recent investments include Genius Trading, Vana Network, and a $1 billion allocation to BNB ecosystem developers.
A separate $2 million investment in biotech firm Aster resulted in a 35% jump in its token price, underscoring that CZ’s influence on markets remains strong.
Advising Governments on Real-World Asset Tokenisation
One of CZ’s most impactful new roles is as an adviser to governments exploring Real-World Asset (RWA) tokenisation. He has confirmed ongoing discussions with multiple countries on using blockchain to digitise assets such as infrastructure projects and state-backed securities.
According to ARK Invest’s “Big Ideas 2026” report, up to $11 trillion in RWAs could be tokenised by 2030. Unlike other crypto narratives, tokenisation has gained traction with regulators because it improves efficiency and liquidity without undermining state control.
CZ believes blockchain technology can unlock vast pools of illiquid capital, and his advisory position allows him to influence national strategies without bearing operational or regulatory risk.
Life After Legal Challenges
CZ has acknowledged that his legal battles reshaped his perspective. He has expressed regret over decisions that exposed Binance to U.S. enforcement actions and has made it clear that he does not wish to revisit that chapter.
With Richard Teng and Yi He now leading Binance, the exchange continues without CZ’s direct involvement, while his influence shifts toward education, capital deployment, and public-sector advisory work.
Conclusion
Changpeng Zhao’s confirmation that he will not return to Binance marks the definitive end of a founder-led era for the world’s largest crypto exchange. At the same time, it signals a broader evolution in his role, one focused on long-term investing, education, and shaping how governments adopt blockchain technology.
Although CZ no longer runs Binance, his footprint across the global crypto ecosystem remains significant and enduring.
