Binance’s founder Changpeng “CZ” Zhao signaled readiness to reinvest the $4.3B fine into the US market if regulators return the funds.
Zhao outlined the stance after blockchain commentator Anndy Lian asked about the hypothetical refund.
He noted the sum would support Binance’s renewed US operations as a gesture of gratitude. The response comes during a shift in the exchange’s regulatory position in the United States.
CZ outlines position on fine reversal
Zhao stated that he has not filed for any additional reversal requests, explaining that he appreciated the personal pardon granted during the original settlement process.
The $4.3B penalty was imposed nearly two years ago after a prolonged legal battle over unlicensed operations in the United States.
Binance had served US traders without the required licensing and oversight. Zhao described the case as a turning point for the exchange’s restructuring in the market.
During the earlier trial, concerns were raised about how Binance managed US customer assets.
Regulators questioned whether some funds were held abroad or pooled with other deposits. Binance US was asked to repatriate user assets to resolve the issue.
That episode shaped later compliance efforts as the exchange worked to align with evolving requirements.
Zhao told Lian that a refund of the fine would be directed back into the US market to reinforce Binance’s business reputation.
He framed the reinvestment as a way to honor reinstated trust from US regulators.
His comments emerged at a time when Binance is preparing to expand again under what it views as more favorable regulations in 2025.
The exchange expects demand to grow as the US market stabilizes after several turbulent regulatory cycles.
US traders boost traffic and market share
Despite earlier restrictions, US-based traders remain a major source of Binance’s mobile and desktop traffic.
Recent data is showing that around half of the platform’s activity comes from the United States. Searches for Binance also increased, with a notable uptick in October and November, pointing to renewed interest.
This trend supports the company’s broader plan to rebuild its footprint in the largest developed economy where it operates.
Binance continues to dominate global trading activity, holding about 38% of all exchange volumes.
The exchange has been the leading venue for spot trading, attracting large inflows of BTC and stablecoins.
Binance still offers deeper liquidity than Coinbase, especially for high-volume traders. Its derivatives segment also remains a global leader, reinforcing its central role in the digital asset market.
The company is also active in the growing perpetual decentralized exchange sector. Binance has backed Aster, which is among the most competitive challengers to platforms like Hyperliquid.
The strategic move reflects the shifting landscape where centralized exchanges compete directly with decentralized models for liquidity and relevance.