Changpeng “CZ” Zhao, who founded the cryptocurrency exchange Binance
$9.14B
Speaking on the Farokh Radio podcast aired on May 6, Zhao said he “wouldn’t mind” receiving a pardon.
Zhao explained that while he had initially rejected claims made by Bloomberg and The Wall Street Journal in March, he later decided it made sense to file an application. He said, “If they’re writing this article, I may as well just officially apply”.
Did you know?
Subscribe – We publish new crypto explainer videos every week!
10 Biggest Crypto Scams & How to Avoid Them (ANIMATED)
He also noted that his lawyers submitted the paperwork on his behalf a couple of weeks before the podcast aired.
Zhao also mentioned that President Trump’s pardons for the three BitMEX founders, including Arthur Hayes, encouraged him to move forward with his own application.
The US Department of Justice has stated that even if a pardon is granted, it would not erase Zhao’s conviction. However, it could allow him to return to a leadership or operational role at Binance.US.
In November 2023, Zhao admitted guilt to a money laundering charge. The agreement required Binance to pay $4.3 billion in penalties. Zhao paid $50 million of this amount and agreed to step down as CEO.
Meanwhile, on April 28, the DeFi Education Fund, a crypto advocacy group, sent a letter to White House crypto adviser David Sacks. What did the letter say? Read the full story.
Having completed a Master’s degree in Economics, Politics, and Cultures of the East Asia region, Aaron has written scientific papers analyzing the differences between Western and Collective forms of capitalism in the post-World War II era.
With close to a decade of experience in the FinTech industry, Aaron understands all of the biggest issues and struggles that crypto enthusiasts face. He’s a passionate analyst who is concerned with data-driven and fact-based content, as well as that which speaks to both Web3 natives and industry newcomers.
Aaron is the go-to person for everything and anything related to digital currencies. With a huge passion for blockchain & Web3 education, Aaron strives to transform the space as we know it, and make it more approachable to complete beginners.
Aaron has been quoted by multiple established outlets, and is a published author himself. Even during his free time, he enjoys researching the market trends, and looking for the next supernova.
