Binance CEO claims competitors launched covert campaign to block his presidential reprieve and hinder exchange's American expansion plans

Table of Contents Changpeng Zhao, widely known as CZ, has spoken openly about his prison experience, his pardon process, and his outlook on the future of cryptocurrency. In a recent interview, the Binance founder discussed writing his book, “The Freedom of Money,” during a 76-day sentence. He also addressed competitor interference during his pardon process. CZ shared his continued belief in blockchain technology and its role in the coming AI-driven economy. CZ stated that US crypto competitors actively lobbied against his pardon. He believes they did not want Binance returning to the American market. As shared by Crypto Banter on X, this was “business competition taken to the level of personal interference.” Crypto Banter noted on X that CZ “doesn’t have hard evidence, but he’s confident it happened.” He acknowledged he could not prove the lobbying directly. However, he remained firm in his belief that it took place. CZ also reflected on a key business regret from his time running Binance. He said he should have separated Binance US from Binance Global from the start. That decision, he believes, would have helped avoid many regulatory complications. Beyond legal matters, CZ described the difficult conditions inside prison. He had limited computer access and faced mental anxiety throughout his sentence. His greatest struggle, though, was the absence of his family and loved ones. CZ continues to hold a strong belief in blockchain and cryptocurrency. He views them as foundational technologies for global finance going forward. In his view, crypto is currently “the most undervalued asset class,” poised to become the rails for a much larger global economy. He argues that crypto will serve as the transactional layer as AI agents become more active in finance. Without crypto infrastructure, AI-driven transactions would lack a reliable settlement layer. He described crypto as “indispensable for future transactions, especially in an AI-driven economy.” Currently, CZ is working with Google Academy, Easy Labs, BNB Chain, and advising governments. His investment focus targets mission-driven founders with strong technical backgrounds. He is particularly interested in AI and biotech for their potential positive impact. On personal matters, CZ emphasized the value of meaningful family time over material wealth. He spoke about raising children with drive and a sense of purpose. His approach to wealth centers on “enabling positive impact through investments” rather than accumulating personal luxury.