CZ's Possible Return to Binance by 2025 Gains Traction After Trump Pardon

In a surprising turn of events, the odds for Changpeng ‘CZ’ Zhao's return to Binance have significantly increased following former President Donald Trump's decision to pardon him.

Key Takeaways

Polymarket odds for CZ’s return to Binance jumped to 82% after Trump's pardon.
A poll indicated a 68% increase in bets, up from 14% just days earlier.
Zhao was pardoned after pleading guilty to money laundering in 2023, part of which involved Binance paying over $4 billion in forfeiture.
Zhao expressed gratitude for the pardon and hinted at a new project, including a forthcoming book.

Increase in Betting Odds on CZ's Return to Binance

Following the announcement of Donald Trump’s pardon of Changpeng ‘CZ’ Zhao, the likelihood of his return to Binance has surged. A recent poll on Polymarket, which asks “Will CZ return to Binance by December 31,” saw odds skyrocket to 82%. This marks a substantial rise from October 23, when the odds stood at a mere 14%.

However, as of Friday evening, the confidence levels appear to be stabilizing, settling around 36%.

Trump Grants Pardon to CZ, Former Binance CEO Hints at New Book

On Thursday morning, reports surfaced that Trump had pardoned Zhao after he pled guilty to money laundering offenses related to Binance in 2023. As part of this legal resolution, Binance was required to pay over $4 billion in forfeiture, while Zhao himself was ordered to pay a $50 million fine.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated, “President Trump exercised his constitutional authority by issuing a pardon for Mr. Zhao, who was prosecuted by the Biden Administration in their war on cryptocurrency.” She further emphasized, “The Biden Administration pursued Mr. Zhao despite no allegations of fraud or identifiable victims,” highlighting the contentious nature of the situation.

In response to the pardon, Zhao expressed his gratitude on X (formerly Twitter), thanking Trump and supporters for their congratulatory messages. “Deeply grateful for today’s pardon and to President Trump for upholding America’s commitment to fairness, innovation, and justice,” he stated. Zhao also expressed his intention to promote the U.S. as a leader in the crypto space, asserting, “Will do everything we can to help make America the Capital of Crypto and advance web3 worldwide.”

Additionally, Zhao hinted at an upcoming project, saying, “Book releasing soon,” although more details about this initiative remain undisclosed.