Binance founder Changpeng Zhao returned to the United States this week for the first time since his 2024 prison release, attending a cryptocurrency conference at Mar-a-Lago. The event highlighted Binance’s efforts to re-enter the U.S. market and featured policymakers like CFTC Chairman Michael Selig, amid growing regulatory scrutiny of crypto’s political connections.
Binance founder Changpeng Zhao returned to the United States on February 20, 2026, attending a crypto conference at Mar-a-Lago. This was his first U.S. appearance since his 2024 release from federal prison for anti-money laundering violations.
Zhao had previously agreed to a $4.3 billion settlement with U.S. authorities in 2023. His return coincides with Binance exploring ways to re-establish a structured presence in the American market.
The conference gathered regulators, Wall Street executives, and crypto founders. Newly appointed CFTC Chairman Michael Selig attended, whose recent comments supported federal oversight of prediction markets.
Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong also attended, underscoring Washington’s growing regulatory interest. Zhao’s presidential pardon in October has drawn attention from Democratic lawmakers, especially given Binance’s commercial ties with the event’s organizer, World Liberty Financial.
The company has denied involvement in the clemency process. The White House stated that former President Trump’s assets remain in a trust administered by his children.
World Liberty Financial also announced plans to issue digital tokens tied to revenue from a Trump-branded resort project. Accredited investors could gain exposure through these blockchain instruments.
In a recent podcast, Zhao stated he did not advocate for a pardon and that his legal troubles had political undertones. He also said clearer regulations would allow Binance to return to the U.S. market.
Federal regulators continue considering frameworks for crypto, including derivatives and stablecoins. Binance’s potential return is expected to depend on robust anti-money laundering measures and federal licensing.
