Changpeng Zhao (“CZ”), founder and former CEO of Binance, has stated that if the $4.3 billion fine paid as part of the 2023 U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) settlement is ever refunded, he would reinvest it in the United States.
The suggestion stems from his 2025 presidential pardon from President Donald Trump. CZ’s remarks come after fresh questions within the crypto community about the fate of the record penalty following a legal turnabout and renewed public attention.
CZ Offers Conditional Commitment
CZ was questioned on social media about whether the United States government would now refund his company’s $4.3 billion fine, now that his personal criminal conviction had been pardoned. He responded directly to the question. “Delicate question,” he said, adding that he was grateful for the pardon and was reluctant to ask for further leniency.
CZ made it clear that he has not formally requested a refund and expressed his appreciation for the legal decision. He pointed out that it would be unethical to demand more.
Binance Founder, however, promised that he would use the money only for new investments in the United States if the government chose to reimburse any part of the penalties.
The investment could be a way to repay a nation that had granted him legal relief following a high-profile inquiry and settlement, and he emphasised his goal to assist American enterprises or technology.
Legal and Industry Context
The legal distinction between CZ’s personal case and Binance’s corporate penalty is central. While his four-month prison term and $50 million personal fine are nullified by a pardon, the $4.3 billion paid by Binance is a result of a negotiated settlement with the DOJ. It is not automatically reversed by executive clemency.
Legal experts reiterate that presidential pardons address criminal liabilities for individuals, not corporate financial obligations. This means modifying or refunding the settlement would require separate action.
CZ’s public statement has sparked debate in the crypto industry. Some believe a pardon should waive financial penalties associated with the conduct for which the pardon is granted. However, others note that U.S. law tends to separate criminal and corporate consequences.
Meanwhile, CZ’s suggestion to reinvest any refunded funds in the U.S. could be a conciliatory gesture that might bolster Binance’s relations with American regulators and markets.
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