Binance founder Changpeng “CZ” Zhao envisions a future where cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence converge, while emphasizing shifts in policy, educational initiatives, and global advisory roles.
During a “Fireside Chat” at WebX in Tokyo, CZ discussed the significant changes in US crypto policy.
CZ Commends Trump’s Policy Reversal
CZ highlighted President Donald Trump’s public support for digital assets in July 2024, contrasting it with the previous administration’s adversarial stance.
Reflecting on the past administration, CZ remarked, “It felt like being in prison due to hostile regulations.” He lauded the Trump administration for enacting three bills, including those concerning stablecoins and the Genius Act, while expressing opposition to central bank digital currencies (CBDCs). According to CZ, the administration recognizes the disruptive potential of crypto and prioritizes embracing innovation to stay competitive globally.
Anticipating the integration of artificial intelligence with cryptocurrency, CZ predicted that AI would adopt crypto as its primary medium of exchange. “AI will not rely on traditional fiat currencies like the US dollar or Japanese yen. It will operate independently of banks or credit cards,” he stated.
CZ argued that while banks cater to human users, blockchains offer programmable APIs that can directly interact with AI agents. He envisioned a future where individuals have hundreds or even thousands of AI agents facilitating economic transactions, with many of these transactions occurring as microtransactions on blockchain networks.
Focus on Education, Policy Consultation, and Entrepreneurial Guidance
Following his departure from Binance, CZ has shifted his focus to education through Giggle Academy, a project serving approximately 50,000 students. He estimated that fully digitizing 18 years of schooling would cost $300 million, significantly less than the US government’s annual education budget of $110 billion.
CZ disclosed that he provides advisory services to at least 12 governments and world leaders on matters pertaining to regulation, stablecoins, CBDCs, and broader crypto adoption. He commended the UAE’s progressive approach to innovation, noting that smaller nations with effective governance often lead in technological advancements.
Encouraging ethical practices and long-term product development over short-term gains, CZ advised entrepreneurs to create products that deliver genuine value and address market needs effectively.
Looking ahead, CZ expressed his intention to mentor and support new founders, with his investment firm EZ Labs offering not just financial backing but also strategic guidance to early-stage projects.
The article “CZ Says “I Advise Twelve Governments and Leaders on Crypto”” was originally published on BeInCrypto.