Binance founder Changpeng Zhao reflects on prison, Trump and potential bitcoin supercycle after pardon
Binance founder CZ discussed his prison experience, the unexpected pardon by President Trump, and his belief in a potential Bitcoin supercycle.Summary
Binance founder Changpeng "CZ" Zhao spoke publicly following his pardon by President Trump, stating the pardon lifted a significant "psychological burden" even after completing his four-month prison sentence for Bank Secrecy Act violations. Zhao expressed surprise at serving time, as he expected home confinement based on historical precedents for similar failures.
Regarding the pardon, Zhao described the process as a "black box," denying any direct lobbying or personal connection to Trump, despite media speculation linking the pardon to pro-crypto postures or business ties involving entities like MGX. He clarified that using a stablecoin like USD1 for payment does not constitute an investment in the issuer.
On market outlook, Zhao, a long-term holder, suggested Bitcoin could break its traditional four-year cycle and enter a "supercycle" in 2026, driven by increasing global crypto adoption. Reflecting on his past, Zhao stated that if he could start over, he would have blocked U.S. users from Binance "from day one" to avoid significant legal issues.
(Source：The Block)