CZ Steps Back from Binance, Predicts Major Bitcoin Market Shift

CZ rules out returning to Binance and predicts Bitcoin could enter a supercycle in 2026 amid growing global crypto support now!

Binance co-founder Changpeng Zhao has said he will not return to lead the crypto exchange.

His comments came after a public appearance where he also discussed Bitcoin market cycles.

Zhao spoke about leadership changes at Binance and shared expectations for Bitcoin in 2026.

Zhao Dismisses Return to Binance Leadership

Changpeng Zhao stated that he has no plans to return to Binance operations. He said the exchange does not require his involvement.

His comments followed questions about his legal pardon.

A candid conversation from Davos – on prison, pardon, and what freedom means going forward.

Full interview on @CNBC with @andrewrsorkin. Focused on building what’s next. pic.twitter.com/x94llJFac2

— CZ 🔶 BNB (@cz_binance) January 25, 2026

Zhao explained that restrictions linked to his conviction were lifted after a presidential pardon.

Despite this, he rejected the idea of resuming any executive role. He said stepping away allowed leadership renewal.

“I haven’t really needed to go back. I didn’t really want to,” Zhao said. He added that Binance should allow new leaders to grow.

Zhao described his exit as difficult but ultimately necessary.

Binance Growth Continues Under New Management

Zhao said Binance operations have continued without disruption since his departure.

He credited the current leadership for maintaining performance. He also noted improvements in several internal metrics.

Binance is currently led by CEO Richard Teng and co-founder Yi He. Zhao described them as capable leaders. He said the exchange does not need what he called a “backseat driver.”

In a public letter issued in December, Binance leadership reported strong growth figures. The exchange stated its user base surpassed 300 million. Annual trading volume was reported at $34 trillion.

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Legal Background and Shareholder Role

Zhao pleaded guilty in November 2023 to AML compliance failures. He later received a four-month prison sentence. He was also barred from working at Binance.

In October, former US President Donald Trump issued a pardon. The move drew scrutiny from lawmakers. Trump later stated he did not know Zhao personally.

Zhao confirmed he remains a Binance shareholder. He described himself as a passive investor. When offering advice, he said he uses public platforms rather than direct involvement.

Bitcoin Market Outlook and Cycle Expectations

Zhao also discussed Bitcoin price cycles during the interview. He said the market may shift away from its traditional four-year pattern. His comments focused on policy trends.

“Normally, Bitcoin follows four-year cycles,” Zhao said. He noted past peaks followed by corrections. He suggested current conditions could alter that behavior.

Zhao predicted a Bitcoin supercycle could emerge in 2026. He cited pro-crypto policies in the United States. He added that other countries may follow similar paths.

A supercycle refers to extended market growth driven by strong fundamentals. Zhao said broader adoption could support this trend. He stressed that his comments were based on observed policy changes.