Zhao's Pardon Shifts Binance's US Market Strategy
Changpeng "CZ" Zhao, the founder of Binance, received a presidential pardon from Donald Trump three days ago. Previously, Zhao pled guilty to violating the Bank Secrecy Act, accepting a $50 million penalty, and serving a four-month sentence. Binance paid another $4.30 billion as a settlement with US authorities. With the presidential pardon, options such as integrating Binance.US more closely into Binance's global operations are under review.
Current discussions consider offering Binance's extensive services directly to US customers. This marks a potential shift from Binance.US's current structural independence. Such changes could provide US investors with access to increased liquidity and derivatives services, assuming integration proceeds.
Market responses have been swift. White House comments praised Trump's decision, while CZ expressed gratitude on social media. Senator Elizabeth Warren, however, criticized the pardon in her statement.
Deeply grateful for the pardon. - Changpeng "CZ" Zhao, Founder and Former CEO, Binance
BNB Price Soars Amid Potential Integration Plans
Changpeng Zhao's pardon is reminiscent of a similar event earlier in 2025 when BitMEX executives also received pardons, suggesting an evolving U.S. stance towards crypto exchanges.
BNB, priced at $1,128.12 with a market cap of 157.01 billion, has seen a 35.37% rise in the past 90 days based on CoinMarketCap data. The token, integral to Binance's operations, might react further to structural shifts.
The Coincu research team anticipates potential financial benefits from improved liquidity. Regulatory decisions remain crucial as Binance navigates US integrations. Technological enhancements could further consolidate market positioning if integration proves successful.