TLDR
- Changpeng Zhao may receive a presidential pardon which could allow him to return to Binance.
- The White House is reportedly holding serious discussions about granting Zhao a pardon.
- Zhao was sentenced to four months in prison after pleading guilty to violating the Bank Secrecy Act.
- Sources claim that many insiders believe the case against Zhao was not strong enough for a felony conviction.
- A pardon could remove the legal restrictions that currently prevent Zhao from participating in Binance operations.
A pardon for Changpeng Zhao could pave the way for his return to Binance. White House discussions intensify. Reports say sources inside the White House believe the matter is already “heating up.” Changpeng Zhao pleaded guilty to violating the Bank Secrecy Act, received a four-month prison sentence, and may now be eligible for clemency.
Changpeng Zhao Conviction Faces New Scrutiny
White House aides have reportedly held internal proposals regarding a pardon for Changpeng Zhao. They argue he already paid his legal dues and poses a limited ongoing threat. Meanwhile, Charles Gasparino reports that negotiations are actively advancing among senior officials. He cites “sources familiar with the matter” who assert that White House deliberations are now increasing. Changpeng Zhao’s legal team may push a formal clemency petition if momentum remains strong.
Some insiders describe the conviction as “pretty weak,” and they question its severity. They note that Changpeng Zhao’s case involved complex regulatory arguments and limited precedent. They believe a pardon could rectify perceived unfairness without new trials. However, critics warn that pardoning Zhao might spark negative optics in regulatory circles.
Possible Return to Binance
If the President grants a pardon, Changpeng Zhao could reclaim influence at Binance. He resigned as CEO in late 2023 and was subsequently subject to a formal ban on involvement. Yet a pardon might allow him to reenter the company’s affairs under specific legal frameworks. Supporters suggest such a return would send a strong signal about redemption and industry resilience. Conversely, opponents caution that Zhao’s return could reignite controversy over corporate control.
Changpeng Zhao denied seeking a pardon before the press leaks, but later confirmed that his lawyers had filed one after the March article. He added that the filing began only after the Wall Street Journal reported earlier efforts. Changpeng Zhao’s eventual fate now hinges on the timing of the White House, legal reviews, and political will.
