Trump Grants Presidential Pardon to Binance Founder Changpeng Zhao
In a move that has shaken both the political and crypto landscapes, US President Donald Trump has officially signed a presidential pardon for Changpeng Zhao (CZ), the founder of global cryptocurrency exchange Binance. The decision recognizes Zhao’s “contribution to innovation and economic freedom” through support of the Trump-family crypto initiative World Liberty Financial.
End of the “War on Crypto”
In his statement, Trump described Zhao as a “victim of the Biden administration’s war on cryptocurrency”, claiming the previous government unfairly targeted digital-asset entrepreneurs. The pardon not only clears Zhao’s legal record but also signals a policy shift favoring digital assets within Trump’s returning administration.According to White House aides, the decision was influenced by Zhao’s engagement with pro-innovation economic councils and his endorsement of blockchain initiatives aligned with World Liberty Financial — a project associated with Trump’s campaign and family investment network.
Path for Binance Back to the US Market
The pardon effectively reopens the possibility for Binance to re-enter the US market, following years of regulatory restrictions. Analysts believe this move could restore confidence among institutional investors and accelerate the development of new US-based trading products. Binance representatives have not yet issued an official comment but internal sources confirmed that strategic talks with American partners have already resumed.Trump’s Broader Crypto Agenda
This is not Trump’s first gesture toward the digital-asset community. Earlier, he granted clemency to Ross Ulbricht, founder of the Silk Road marketplace, and is reportedly considering a similar pardon for Roger Ver, known as “Bitcoin Jesus.” These actions underline Trump’s growing alignment with pro-crypto voters and entrepreneurs ahead of the upcoming election cycle.Global Reaction and Implications
The decision has received mixed reactions. Supporters hail it as a turning point for US crypto regulation and a sign of renewed openness toward blockchain innovation. Critics, however, warn that political favoritism could undermine the rule of law and regulatory neutrality. Regardless, the pardon has already reignited debate about America’s role in shaping global cryptocurrency policy.Conclusion
Trump’s pardon of Changpeng Zhao marks a historic moment for the intersection of politics and cryptocurrency. Whether driven by ideology or strategy, the act positions the Trump administration as a champion of digital finance — and sets the stage for a new era of crypto-friendly policy in the United States.Editorial Team — CoinBotLab