The Crypto Connection: Trump, Zhao, and a Questionable Pardon
Changpeng Zhao, a prominent figure in the crypto world, received an unexpected break in late October. Former U.S. President Donald Trump pardoned him after months of Zhao's pleas for mercy. But what led to this surprising turn of events?
The Trouble Begins
Zhao, the former CEO of Binance, one of the largest crypto exchanges, faced legal issues in 2023. He admitted to violating U.S. anti-money laundering laws. As a result, he spent four months in jail and stepped down from his role at Binance.
The Trump Connection
Post his legal troubles, Binance began collaborating with World Liberty Financial, a crypto company linked to the Trump family. This company is a significant part of the Trump family's $7 billion fortune. Coincidence? Perhaps not.
The Pardon
After Zhao's legal woes, his company's partnership with the Trump family business, and then Trump's pardon—it's a lot to process. This raises questions about the influence of powerful individuals in the crypto world and beyond.