Cryptocurrency & Blockchain

Changpeng Zhao

Estimated Net Worth

$33 Billion

Portrait of Changpeng Zhao

Quick Facts

  • Full Name Changpeng Zhao
  • Born September 10, 1977
  • Nationality Canadian-Chinese
  • Primary Sources Binance Exchange, BNB Token, Crypto Investments

Biography

Changpeng Zhao, known as CZ, founded Binance in 2017 and built it into the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume. His rapid rise to billionaire status came through Binance's dominance in the crypto trading market, though his wealth has been significantly impacted by legal challenges and regulatory issues. Despite stepping down as CEO, he remains one of the most influential figures in the cryptocurrency industry.

Sources of Wealth

Binance Exchange Ownership

~$25 Billion

CZ's stake in Binance, the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, which processes billions in daily transactions and generates substantial revenue through trading fees.

BNB Token Holdings

~$5 Billion

Significant holdings of Binance Coin (BNB), the native token of the Binance ecosystem, which is used for trading fee discounts and powers the Binance Smart Chain.

Cryptocurrency Portfolio & Investments

~$3 Billion

Diverse cryptocurrency holdings including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital assets, plus investments in blockchain projects and crypto startups through Binance Labs.

Last Updated: August 30, 2025