CZ Heads Back to the U.S. for Trump-Supported Crypto Conference

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about 5 hours ago

CZ Returns to US for Trump-Backed Crypto Event

Former Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao (CZ) visited Mar-a-Lago in Florida, attending a 500-person event hosted by Trump-backed World Liberty Financial. The gathering included financial leaders like Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon and Coinbase founder Brian Armstrong, alongside Trump’s sons and rapper Nicki Minaj. Zhao, released from prison in 2024 after pleading guilty to anti-money laundering violations, shared a photo with a federal crypto regulator during the event.

Legal Background and Presidential Pardon

CZ’s Binance was barred from U.S. operations in 2023, leading to his four-month prison sentence in 2024. He received a presidential pardon from Donald Trump in October 2025, which he said might aid Binance’s return to the American market. During a podcast interview, Zhao claimed he did not actively seek clemency but acknowledged its potential impact on his business.

World Liberty’s Vision for Crypto Industry

World Liberty Financial outlined plans for a “new digital Bretton Woods system,” referencing post-war economic reforms. Trump’s sons compared the event to the Davos summit, highlighting its networking opportunities and global finance ties. The firm promoted its stablecoin USD1 and tokenized loan revenues from a Trump resort in the Maldives, while addressing foreign investment deals like a $500 million agreement with an Abu Dhabi royal.

Additional Attendees and Industry Presence

Other attendees included CFTC Chairman Michael Selig and Under Secretary of State Jacob Helberg, underscoring the event’s political and financial significance. World Liberty emphasized that foreign investments are standard in global finance, unrelated to government agreements. The gathering highlighted the intersection of crypto, politics, and traditional finance under Trump’s influence.