- •CZ states he did not face fraud charges.
- •He only pleaded guilty to violating the Banking Secrecy Act.
- •Comments come amid speculation over a potential pardon.
Changpeng Zhao, widely known as CZ and the founder of Binance, has spoken out to clarify misconceptions surrounding his legal situation. In a recent statement, CZ emphasized that he was not charged with fraud. Instead, he admitted guilt solely in connection with a violation of the Banking Secrecy Act—a significant but notably different offense from fraud.
This clarification comes as discussions swirl about the possibility of a presidential pardon, a topic gaining traction within the crypto community and beyond. CZ’s comments appear aimed at addressing the growing narrative that he might be seeking forgiveness for fraudulent activity—something he firmly denies.
What Is the Banking Secrecy Act?
The Banking Secrecy Act (BSA) is a U.S. law designed to prevent money laundering by requiring financial institutions to assist government agencies in detecting suspicious activity. CZ’s plea acknowledges that Binance, under his leadership, failed to meet certain compliance standards required by this act.
However, he maintains that this does not equate to committing fraud, a more serious charge involving intentional deception for financial gain. His statement is likely meant to protect his personal and professional reputation as regulatory scrutiny around crypto exchanges intensifies.
A Strategic Response Amid Legal Pressure
CZ’s recent remarks suggest a careful attempt to control the narrative. As the U.S. government continues its crackdown on crypto platforms for regulatory non‑compliance, differentiating between types of charges becomes increasingly important.
By highlighting that he wasn’t accused of fraud, CZ may also be positioning himself more favorably for any potential legal leniency in the future. Whether or not a pardon materializes, this statement reinforces his effort to remain seen as a credible and ethical figure in the crypto world.