Changpeng Zhao, better known as CZ, the co-founder of Binance, recently celebrated the anniversary of his release from prison with a post on X.
He shared not only personal updates but also developments in the cryptocurrency industry over the last year.
Zhao pointed out that he left the United States exactly a year ago after facing 4 months in prison. A few months after his release, in January 2025, a pro-crypto president, Donald Trump, was elected.
Zhao said this, noting that it has influenced global policies and changed the conditions for digital asset regulation.
BTC, ETH, and BNB Record ATH Levels
One prominent highlight of CZ’s reflections was the record-high prices of the top cryptoassets in 2025.
The native cryptocurrency of Binance, BNB, reached a historic price of $1,079.07 on September 21st of 2025, while Bitcoin soared to a historic $124,128 in mid-August.
Ethereum reached a significant ATH price of $4,946.05 in late August. Zhao noted the price appreciation is a signal of resilience in the market and a clear revived interest from both retail and institutional investors.
Again, this price appreciation has coincided with the resurgence of utility tokens and, especially, an increase in on-chain trading volume.
The increased trading volume and price appreciation may be an extension of this advancement in decentralization or general sector adoption of cryptoassets.
U.S. Regulatory Shifts Mark Turning Point for Crypto
Zhao also complimented the current US regulatory changes, specifically pointing to the reversal of the SEC’s past “regulation-by-enforcement” philosophy.
He stated that, with the new Chairman leading the SEC, they have adopted a more constructive policy in hopes of creating an innovative environment, rather than a deterrent for innovation.
These regulatory actions have created particular influences while also causing ripple effects on the international regulatory landscape.
To Zhao, this transition is not just a win for the crypto industry, but a recognition of a longer-term vision that he has supported throughout his career.
Also Read: BNB Coin Reaches A New ATH Of $1000 Mark, Binance Co-Founder CZ Hails The Coin & Thanks Community
Personal Vision and Continued Commitment to Building
In addition to their market success and regulatory success, Zhao shared his personal goal to have a greater social impact.
He pointed to the milestone of Giggle Academy, an educational program aimed at reaching 50,000 children worldwide with free educational resources.Â
In looking forward, Zhao reiterated his belief in a decentralized future and encouraged his followers to “be on the right side of history.”
Earlier this year, UnoCrypto reported that Zhao declared 2025 the year to “send it,” indicating his enthusiasm for new challenges and increased influence for crypto.
His anniversary message is a reflection of perseverance and a call to the global crypto community.