Beyond Binance: Zhao’s pivot to education amid DOJ plea deal

As a seasoned analyst with over two decades of experience in the financial sector and a particular knack for deciphering the intricacies of regulatory agreements, I find myself intrigued by the peculiar situation surrounding Changpeng Zhao (CZ), the enigmatic figure at the helm of Binance.


Although Changpeng Zhao, the former CEO of Binance, has been barred from day-to-day management due to a lifetime ban, his impact remains significant as a major shareholder. Even though he is now concentrating on educational endeavors, his influence continues to be felt within the company.

Even though the former CEO of Binance, Changpeng Zhao, was barred from managing the exchange by the U.S. Department of Justice under a plea agreement, he retains a substantial level of control over the company due to his position as its majority shareholder, according to reports from Axios.

Legal advisors note that the terms of the contract could be open to various interpretations regarding Zhao’s role, leading to ambiguity over the extent of his potential ongoing influence.

In November 2023, the Department of Justice reached an agreement with Binance, limiting Changpeng Zhao’s role within the company. Although the terms are not entirely precise, it appears that he can no longer oversee or run the business on a day-to-day basis. Contrary to initial speculation, this restriction is actually a permanent ban, as opposed to a three-year one. This clarification was made by Binance CEO Richard Teng in his statement to Axios.

“CZ, of course, obviously being the largest shareholder, will retain all shareholder rights.”

Richard Teng, Binance CEO

Yet, Teng made it clear that Zhao, being the principal stockholder, preserves “all stockholder prerogatives,” which encompass the authority to propose board members and oust executives.

Shift to education

The uncertainty surrounding this legal issue provokes queries regarding when one is considered to be “overseeing” or “running” a business. For example, in Zhao’s case, he might potentially function as an advisor or exert significant influence on crucial decisions, all without breaching the terms of the contract, according to the report.

Upcoming undertaking: GiggleAcademy (still without logo)— CZ 🔶 BNB (@cz_binance) March 19, 2024

Previously, Zhao suggested that after leaving Binance, he might focus more on education. In March 2024, he introduced Giggle Academy, a learning platform available on his X page, which offers free fundamental education to disadvantaged kids in underdeveloped nations.

The system employs a “game-like” and customizable strategy, offering progress milestones with unique, non-interchangeable token awards. However, it steers clear of traditional cryptocurrencies, distinguishing itself from the world of digital currencies. Meanwhile, Zhao’s substantial ownership in Binance continues to hold weight, but his latest educational endeavor hints at an ambition to establish a more expansive influence that transcends the boundaries of the crypto sector.

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2024-09-06 12:40