Binance founder Changpeng Zhao said he would have prevented all U.S. users from accessing the platform if he were starting over, citing the legal fallout that led to his conviction and brief prison term. Speaking in a recent interview, Zhao said he had underestimated the risk of incarceration and adapted quickly while imprisoned by joining a group to avoid extortion.
After his release, Zhao donated $2 million to nonprofit Prison Professor to support inmate education programs, including courses on cryptocurrency.
Focus shifts from operations to mentorship and policy
Zhao said his current work is divided across four areas: Giggle Academy, Yzi Labs investments, advising governments on regulation, and mentoring early crypto founders. He described a move away from day-to-day operations toward enabling others, using short-term, goal-based execution.
Despite stepping back from leadership roles, he said cryptocurrency remains central to his outlook. Zhao predicted Bitcoin could reach $500,000 to $600,000 in the current market cycle and potentially $1 million by 2033.
Bitcoin outlook tied to cycle and market growth
Zhao said Bitcoin’s four-year cycle remains intact, though volatility should decline as the market grows. He suggested a fivefold increase could push Bitcoin above $500,000 in the near term, with another doubling over time.
His comments come as the total cryptocurrency market capitalization stands near $2.14 trillion, including roughly $1.17 trillion attributed to Bitcoin. A move toward his projected levels would imply a substantial expansion beyond previous highs.
Historical data shows Bitcoin’s volatility has gradually decreased, though it remains higher than traditional assets such as equities and gold.
Europe remains complex under MiCA rollout
On regulation, Zhao said Binance withdrew its MiCA license application in Greece due to political factors, calling the outcome unfavorable for both sides. He noted earlier compliance adjustments helped the company navigate regulatory hurdles in Japan and Singapore.
The European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets framework reaches full implementation as of July 1, 2026, requiring all firms serving EU clients to hold authorization. Zhao said some countries remain receptive to clearer crypto strategies that could support economic growth.
Binance us restores banking channels
Zhao emphasized that Binance and Binance US operate as separate entities, with the U.S. arm maintaining independent compliance and accounts since its 2019 launch. He confirmed Binance US temporarily lost banking access following an SEC lawsuit but has since restored payment channels and resumed zero-fee trading for key partners.
He added that he does not view rival firms as adversaries, describing public disputes between platforms as unproductive.
Ai tools useful but require human oversight
Zhao said he uses free AI tools such as Kimi for coding and email handling but warned that all AI-generated code must be reviewed. While advanced models can detect vulnerabilities faster, he said overreliance on automation could introduce new risks.
He added that larger platforms invest heavily in security infrastructure, while smaller ones often struggle to keep pace.
Multi-chain strategy over bitcoin-only approach
Zhao rejected Bitcoin maximalism, arguing that multiple blockchains, including BNB Chain and Ethereum, drive broader adoption through innovation. Early 2026 data shows strong activity across networks, including over 1.12 million daily active users on BNB Chain by late 2024.
He said blockchain infrastructure could extend beyond financial use cases into identity and property systems, with AI helping verify and share data securely.
Concerns over complex products and market sensitivity
Zhao acknowledged limited familiarity with Strategy’s STRC token structure but cautioned that multi-layered leveraged products can become opaque. He noted that Strategy’s sale of 32 Bitcoin, out of nearly one million holdings, was minor but still triggered noticeable market reaction, highlighting sensitivity among traders.
He also said some Yzi Labs members are working with CEA Industries to stabilize operations following a drop in its share price.
Legacy and outlook
Zhao said he expects to be remembered simply as a “crypto guy,” while continuing to focus on mentorship, investment, and policy. His broader outlook centers on expanding blockchain adoption and navigating a regulatory landscape that remains uneven across regions.
For deeper insight into Bitcoin’s future and CZ’s bold price targets, explore our outlook in this Bitcoin forecast guide.
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