Changpeng Zhao is the former CEO of Binance. Zhao is based in the United Arab Emirates.
Changpeng Zhao, commonly known as CZ, is a Canadian businessman who is known for co-founding the cryptocurrency company Binance. He has also served as CTO of OKCoin and CEO of Binance. According to Forbes, Zhao is the richest Canadian and the 17th-richest person in the world, with a net worth estimated at $111.1 billion as of April 2026.
Recent developments
AI summary of recent coverageRecent coverage has focused on Changpeng Zhao's return to public prominence following a presidential pardon and prison sentence, with media attention spanning his re-entry into the U.S. crypto landscape and potential expansion plans for Binance.US. Headlines have documented his views on cryptocurrency regulation, on-chain IPOs, and Bitcoin's future value, as well as his memoir and discussions about the pardon itself. Zhao has also been featured commenting on crypto industry issues, including responses to regulatory skepticism and perspectives on blockchain's role in financial markets.
Summarized from the headlines below; see each source for the full story.
Our coverage
On CEOInsider
No feature yet. When we publish a feature, interview or cover story on Changpeng Zhao, it will appear here — and tie into the news timeline.
Changpeng Zhao: FAQ
- Where did Changpeng Zhao work previously?
- Earlier roles include Binance (CEO).