The Trump White House is considering pardoning Binance founder CZ Zhao, triggering debate over legal fairness and potential conflicts tied to the president’s crypto-linked family business interests.
The White House is intensifying internal discussions over a possible pardon for Binance founder Changpeng “CZ” Zhao, reigniting controversy over political ties to the booming cryptocurrency industry.
Zhao, 48, who spent four months in U.S. prison after pleading guilty to violating the Bank Secrecy Act, confirmed in May that he had petitioned President Trump for clemency.
Sources say several advisers view the case as excessive, arguing Zhao’s offense did not warrant a felony conviction. “Great news if true,” Zhao wrote on X after reports of renewed talks. A pardon could enable his return to Binance, where he remains the largest shareholder, and lift regulatory barriers on the company.
However, critics warn of conflict-of-interest concerns as members of Trump’s family pursue crypto partnerships including deals reportedly involving Binance. “There are people in the White House who are worried about the optics,” a source said.