Binance co-founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ) has outlined his post-Binance plans, focusing on ventures outside the cryptocurrency exchange he once led.
Following a four-month prison term in the U.S., CZ announced he has no desire to return to Binance, despite being its largest shareholder, and is instead steering toward projects in blockchain, AI, biotech, and education.
"I think in the judge’s mind, he treated me very leniently," CZ said, reflecting on his sentence during Binance Blockchain Week and expressing a wish to move on from his time with Binance.
CZ had reached a plea deal with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) related to Binance’s anti-money laundering (AML) practices, resulting in a substantial fine, a leadership ban, and a brief prison term.
"I don’t have any need to go back. I don’t have any wish to go back," he clarified, emphasising that while he remains connected to Binance as a major shareholder, his focus has shifted to new initiatives.
Among these is Giggle Academy, an educational platform aimed at spreading knowledge on blockchain and related fields.
"It’s very limiting in a lot of ways," CZ remarked, describing his prison experience but also acknowledging camaraderie among inmates.
"To be honest, I think there are very nice people in prison. People are very chill. I think a decent portion of them had no reason to be there," he added, noting he still maintains contact with some individuals he met and is offering legal support where possible.