CZ Clarifies No Return as Binance CEO, Open to Trump Pardon

Changpeng "CZ" Zhao, the founder and former CEO of Binance, has stated he has no intention of returning to his former role at the cryptocurrency exchange but expressed openness to receiving a pardon from President-elect Donald Trump.
Today, CZ responded to a post on X by John Lilic, Executive Director of the Telos Foundation. Lilic suggested that Trump should consider pardoning CZ to allow him to resume his position as Binance’s CEO and help the cryptocurrency industry reach its full potential.
“President @realDonaldTrump should consider a pardon for @cz_binance so he can return to being the CEO of @binance and help the crypto industry mature, and realize its full potential. He is also a victim of law fare,” Lilic wrote.
CZ replied directly to the post, clarifying his stance: “No wish to be CEO again. But definitely wouldn’t mind a pardon.”
The exchange sparked a wave of reactions from the crypto community. Many users voiced support for CZ, with comments like “Free CZ” appearing frequently. Some enthusiasts suggested that even if he doesn’t return to Binance, CZ could play a significant role in advancing the crypto industry through other avenues.
“Yes, CZ definitely deserves the spot in the government to bring mass #crypto adoption,” one user commented. Another added, “Not working as CEO of Binance but working as a CEO of crypto.”
Since stepping down from his role at Binance, CZ has expressed a desire to focus on mentoring and funding young entrepreneurs in the crypto space. In a public interview following his departure, he addressed rumors about a supposed “lifetime ban” from managing crypto exchanges, stating, “Those two words don’t exist in my plea agreement with the government.”
The conversation about a potential pardon comes at a time when the cryptocurrency industry is experiencing heightened optimism. The election of pro-crypto leaders, led by President-elect Trump, has boosted institutional investor confidence and increased capital inflows into the market.
The incoming administration’s stance on cryptocurrency regulation remains a focal point for investors and industry leaders alike. A presidential pardon for figures like CZ could signal a more favorable regulatory environment, potentially unlocking new opportunities for innovation and expansion in the crypto sector.
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