CZ Seeks Trump Pardon, Applauds His “Business Strategy”

Changpeng Zhao (CZ), founder of Binance, has officially filed for a presidential pardon just months after completing a four-month prison term. On May 7, 2025, CZ submitted the request to President Donald Trump, citing alignment with Trump’s business-minded approach and renewed pro-crypto policies.

CZ was convicted in 2024 for weak anti-money laundering compliance, which led to a record $4.3 billion penalty for Binance and his resignation as CEO. By seeking a pardon, CZ hopes to reclaim his reputation and reenter the crypto industry under more favorable political conditions.

In a recent interview, CZ praised Trump’s negotiation tactics, comparing them to business deals rather than traditional politics – a tone that resonates with the current administration’s market-first stance.

The move also draws attention to Sam Bankman-Fried (SBF), the former FTX CEO now serving a 25-year sentence. Sources suggest his legal team may be exploring a similar pardon strategy – though his case involves deeper investor losses and public scrutiny.

If Trump grants CZ a pardon, it could set a historic precedent for the crypto world — and reshape how justice is applied to digital finance pioneers.