TLDR
- Changpeng Zhao (CZ) changed his X profile from “@ex-binance” to “@binance”
- Rumors coincide with Binance reportedly nearing a deal with DOJ to end compliance oversight
- BNB price rallied 5% to a new all-time high of $960
- CZ is legally barred from formally running Binance under his 2023 plea agreement
- The profile change has reignited debate about his future role at the exchange
Speculation is growing that Binance founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ) might be preparing for a comeback to the cryptocurrency exchange nearly two years after stepping down. The rumors began circulating after CZ updated his X (formerly Twitter) profile, removing “ex-@binance” and replacing it with “@binance.”
This subtle profile change has captured the attention of the crypto community. It comes at a time when Binance is reportedly close to reaching an agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice to remove the compliance oversight imposed as part of its 2023 settlement.
The timing is especially interesting as it coincides with BNB, Binance’s native token, reaching a new all-time high of $960. The token saw a 5% price increase amid the speculation, with daily trading volumes surging by 37.3% to $3.31 billion.
CZ stepped down as CEO of Binance in November 2023 as part of a $4.3 billion settlement with U.S. authorities. He pleaded guilty to violating U.S. anti-money laundering laws and paid a personal penalty of $50 million.
Legal Barriers to Full Return
Despite the renewed speculation, CZ faces major legal obstacles that prevent him from formally running Binance again. Under the terms of his plea agreement, he is permanently barred from managing or operating the exchange in any capacity.
This prohibition specifically prevents him from holding executive positions or being involved in day-to-day operations. However, CZ remains a major shareholder with voting rights, allowing him to maintain some level of influence over governance matters.
Since his departure, Richard Teng has served as Binance CEO, guiding the company through its post-settlement phase. CZ has previously stated publicly that he does not plan to return as CEO, making a full leadership comeback highly unlikely.
Market Response to the News
The crypto market’s reaction to the profile change has been telling. BNB futures open interest has increased by 10.5% to more than $1.83 billion, according to data from Coinglass, suggesting strong bullish sentiment among traders.
Market analysts are now watching closely to see if BNB can break past the $1,000 mark, which would represent another major milestone for the token. The price movement stands out against the backdrop of the broader crypto market, which has been in a consolidation phase.
Industry watchers suggest that any potential return by CZ would likely take the form of a non-executive advisory role, board-level participation, or public-facing activities that don’t breach the legal restrictions placed on him.
The profile update underscores the continuing influence CZ wields over market sentiment and Binance’s brand identity, even while officially removed from management. Many in the Binance community and investor base still associate the platform’s success with his leadership.
For now, Binance continues its efforts to strengthen compliance and adapt to evolving regulatory requirements. Traders and analysts will be watching closely for additional signals from CZ or formal announcements from the company regarding any changes in his relationship with the exchange.
The latest development marks the first time rumors of CZ’s return have surfaced since the formal conclusion of the Binance lawsuit in May 2025.
