- Binance founder CZ has applied for a presidential pardon from Donald Trump, citing Trump’s previous BitMEX pardons as a precedent.
- Despite seeking clemency, CZ clarified he has no plans to return as Binance’s CEO.
Former CEO Files For Clemency
Changpeng Zhao (CZ), the former CEO of Binance, has officially applied for a presidential pardon from Donald Trump. The revelation came during an interview on the Farokh Radio podcast, where CZ confirmed that his legal team submitted the pardon application two weeks ago. He cited reports from Bloomberg and The Wall Street Journal as the trigger for this move.
CZ explained that despite dismissing these reports on X (formerly Twitter), he eventually decided to proceed with the pardon request. “If they are writing this article, we might as well just officially apply,” he stated. He also noted that he wouldn’t object to receiving amnesty, given his unique position as the only individual convicted for a single Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) violation.
CZ Cites Trump’s BitMEX Pardons
CZ’s decision is partly influenced by former President Trump’s previous pardons of BitMEX founders, including Arthur Hayes, who pleaded guilty to BSA violations. By highlighting this precedent, CZ aims to strengthen his case for clemency.
No Plans to Return as Binance CEO
Despite seeking clemency, CZ made it clear that he has no intention of returning to his former role as Binance’s CEO. “I’m not really looking to become CEO of Binance again,” he stated. Although he stepped down, CZ remains the largest shareholder of the world’s largest crypto exchange.
His legal issues began in November 2023 when he pleaded guilty to a money laundering violation, leading to a $4.3 billion settlement for Binance and a personal $50 million contribution. He was sentenced to four months in prison and banned from holding any role at Binance.
CZ’s Post-Prison Ventures
Since completing his prison term, CZ has shifted his focus to advisory roles abroad. In Pakistan, he supports the nation’s crypto council with policy planning. He has also signed an MOU with Kyrgyzstan’s National Investment Agency, assisting with Web3 initiatives and digital finance development.
CZ’s pardon request adds another layer of intrigue to his evolving narrative, reflecting his determination to secure a fresh chapter despite his past legal challenges.
