CZ Rules Out Binance Return After Trump Pardon: Details

Binance co-founder Changpeng Zhao has said he will not return to the crypto exchange, even after receiving a pardon from U.S. President Donald Trump that cleared the legal path for him to do so. Zhao made the comments during an interview on CNBC’s Squawk Box on Sunday.

Zhao said the pardon removed all formal restrictions tied to his prior conviction but added that he has no interest in resuming any role at Binance. He stepped down after seven years leading the exchange and said the exit now feels final.

No Plans to Rejoin Binance Leadership

Zhao pleaded guilty in November 2023 to failing to maintain proper anti money laundering controls at Binance. He later served a four month prison sentence and was barred from working at the company. Trump issued a pardon in October, which ended those limits.

Despite that, Zhao said he prefers to stay away. He described the exit as painful at the time but said distance has made the decision easier. He added that returning would block new leaders from growing inside the firm.

Zhao said Binance does not need his presence. He noted that the company has continued to grow under new leadership and does not require guidance from a former executive.

Binance Growth Continues Without Founder

According to Binance leadership, the exchange has not slowed down since Zhao left. In a December open letter, CEO Richard Teng and co-founder Yi He said the platform’s user base passed 300 million.

They also reported a total trading volume of $34 trillion for the year. Zhao confirmed those figures and said market share has continued to rise.

Zhao remains a shareholder but described himself as passive. He said he does not take part in daily decisions and limits any feedback to public comments on social media.

Outlook for Bitcoin and Crypto Markets

Zhao also shared views on the broader market. Crypto prices have weakened heading into the new year, with Bitcoin still below recent highs. Zhao said the downturn does not change his long term view.

He believes Bitcoin could enter a super cycle within the next year. A super cycle refers to a long period of strong growth driven by lasting changes rather than short trends.

Zhao said Bitcoin has historically moved in four year cycles, with sharp rallies followed by deep pullbacks. He now believes that pattern may no longer hold. He pointed to a more crypto friendly stance from the U.S. government and similar moves by other countries.

According to Zhao, wider policy support could push Bitcoin into a new phase that breaks past earlier cycle limits.