CZ on Binance Exit and Operation Choke Point 2.0: Bitcoin Adoption Explained

At Bitcoin MENA 2025 on December 9, Binance founder Changpeng Zhao, widely known as CZ, shared details about his experience as the top target of “Operation Choke Point 2.0.” The investigation put the largest cryptocurrency exchange under intense scrutiny, and CZ admitted that facing regulators was inevitable. He likened the situation to a “simulation,” saying that challenges in life are unavoidable and must be confronted directly.

CZ revealed that he chose to plead guilty to avoid additional charges that could have impacted other Binance executives, employees, and BNB holders. Having served as CEO for seven years, stepping down was difficult but also offered an opportunity to allow others to lead the exchange. CZ emphasized that his decision was motivated by responsibility toward the wider crypto community, not personal gain.

Binance’s CZ Shifts Focus to Global Crypto Advocacy

Ever since CZ stepped down, he has been advising governments on how to adopt cryptocurrency. He added that the previous concern of governments was to learn more about crypto, such as what it was and how it can be adopted. However, nowadays, the debate revolves around how to regulate crypto.

However, CZ is more than just a supporter because, in addition to a platform called Giga Academy, which is a free education portal for those without access to education, he is the CEO of this startup, which within a year attracted close to 90,000 users without charging a cent. The platform attracted over $11 million in donations, which is more than CZ’s initial investment of $2-$3 million.

Bitcoin Remains the Core Global Reserve Asset

According to CZ, “The current usage of Bitcoin is not like in the previous period. Now, large institutions lead this trend, not individual investors. CZ adds that ETFs, Bitcoin treasury programs, and strategic reserves are bridging the initial crypto world with Wall Street.

New ideas are also a requirement on most blockchains, according to him. Smaller projects could implement ideas that could be implemented by Bitcoin in the future. Encouraging innovation is important in growing the overall future of the cryptoverse with Bitcoin as the prime world reserve currency.

Reflecting on his journey from a rural upbringing in China to being a voice of crypto across the world, his purpose is to leave a positive impact through education, advisory services, and assisting new technology. His idea of leaving a legacy is to leave something positive behind in the realm of crypto and the world.

Also Read: Crypto Safety Alert: Binance’s CZ Targets Address Poisoning After $50 Million Loss