CZ Pushes to Make America a Global Crypto Capital as Binance Eyes US Expansion
During a private press conference at Binance Blockchain Week in Dubai on December 3-4, 2025, Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao (CZ) announced plans to position the United States as a leading global cryptocurrency hub. Despite Binance US operating since 2019 as a relatively small venture, the platform faced challenges following a 2023 SEC lawsuit that resulted in loss of banking access and some state licenses. Nevertheless, CZ emphasized that the US remains a very important market with strong technological talent.
CZ outlined his vision to support US crypto companies and attract large blockchain players back to the country. This includes expanding Binance's presence and improving institutional investors' access to Binance Coin (BNB). He credited former President Donald Trump's pardon with enabling Binance to operate more freely worldwide, including within the US, while clarifying that he has no personal ties to the Trump family.
Highlighting the need for clearer cryptocurrency regulations globally, CZ noted that the United States is taking a leadership role in regulatory efforts. He referenced ongoing legislative work such as the GENIUS Act for stablecoins and the CLARITY Act, acknowledging that initial drafts are not perfect but represent important progress.
CZ also disclosed having served a four-month prison sentence in a US jail in April 2024 for money laundering violations, stressing that no individuals were harmed and stating that the experience inspired his public-spirited initiatives.
Finally, he called for greater integration of cryptocurrency with existing financial systems and closer collaboration with banks to foster mainstream adoption of crypto technologies.