Changpeng Zhao's Potential Return As Binance CEO Fuels BNB Rally

Key Insights:

• Changpeng Zhao (CZ) updated his X profile from ex-@binance to @binance, sparking speculation of a return as Binance CEO.

• CZ stepped down in November 2023 after a $4.3B settlement with the U.S. DOJ over AML violations, paying a $50M personal fine.

• Binance is reportedly nearing an agreement with the DOJ to lift compliance oversight, possibly clearing CZ’s path back.

The crypto space is filled with speculation that Changpeng Zhao (CZ), the founder of Binance, could be on the brink of returning to helm the world’s largest crypto exchange.

Nearly two years after stepping down following legal troubles in the US, subtle yet telling signs including a quiet update to his X profile are reigniting talk of a dramatic comeback.

On Sept 17, CZ updated his X handle from “ex-@binance” to simply “@binance,” dropping the prefix that had symbolized his resignation. The move may appear minor, but in the crypto space, where leadership moves can impact billions in market cap, such a change could have massive impact.

Meanwhile, the rumours comes as reports reveal that Binance is close to finalizing an agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to lift the compliance oversight that has shackled the company since Nov 2023.

While no final decision has been announced, the DOJ is said to be reviewing the terms of its settlement arrangement.

CZ's Earlier Stance On Possible Return

CZ’s original departure from Binance followed a massive $4.3 billion settlement with the DOJ, after he pleaded guilty to violating U.S. anti-money laundering regulations.

As part of the deal, he paid a personal fine of $50 million and accepted a ban from managing or operating Binance, handing over leadership to Richard Teng.

Since then, CZ has remained largely in the shadows, although his influence has never entirely faded. Rumors of a return had gone quiet until now.

The Sept 17 profile update marks the first serious indication of a potential comeback since Binance settled a separate lawsuit in May 2025. 

It also comes after earlier statements from CZ in October 2024, during the Binance Blockchain Week conference in Dubai, where he emphatically stated he had “no wish to return to the firm even if he were allowed.”

Whether CZ intends to officially return or simply play a behind-the-scenes role remains unclear. Meanwhile, the market is reacting with enthusiasm.

BNB Price Surges To New Highs

Amid the rising speculation, Binance Coin (BNB) has staged an impressive rally. On the same day as CZ’s profile change, BNB soared to a new all-time high of $962. The cryptocurrency has been on an uptrend, defying the consolidation in the broader crypto market.

Analysts say the coin could breach $1,000 in the coming days if investor sentiment stays strong. While minor pullbacks are likely in the near term, high buying pressure could keep the coin afloat.