TLDR
- Changpeng Zhao’s wealth pegged at $110 billion by Forbes, securing 17th position globally
- This valuation positions CZ above Bill Gates, whose fortune stands at approximately $108 billion
- Zhao challenged the assessment, noting cryptocurrency valuations plummeted more than 50% throughout 2026
- CZ’s fortune primarily derives from his approximately 90% equity position in Binance rather than cryptocurrency tokens
- The exchange commands roughly 38% of worldwide crypto trading volume with projected revenues between $16–17 billion during 2024–2025
A recent Forbes assessment positions Changpeng Zhao, who established Binance, among the world’s wealthiest individuals—surpassing even Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates. The March 10 publication estimates Zhao’s fortune at roughly $110 billion.
This valuation secures him the 17th spot on Forbes’ international wealth rankings. Gates’ fortune was calculated at approximately $108 billion.
Zhao created Binance, which became the planet’s dominant cryptocurrency trading platform. His tenure as chief executive concluded in 2023 following his guilty plea to charges involving inadequate anti-money laundering controls.
The settlement required Zhao to pay a $50 million individual penalty and complete a four-month incarceration period at a California correctional facility. The exchange itself remitted $4.3 billion in fines.
Though no longer serving as CEO, Zhao reportedly maintains approximately 90% ownership of Binance. This substantial equity stake forms the foundation of his estimated wealth.
Market experts assess Binance’s valuation at approximately $100 billion. The platform facilitates tens of trillions in yearly transaction volume spanning both spot and futures trading.
The exchange dominates roughly 38% of worldwide cryptocurrency trading activity. Financial projections suggest revenue between $16 billion and $17 billion throughout 2024 and 2025—approximately 2.5 times Coinbase’s annual $6.6 billion intake.
Zhao contested the Forbes calculation soon after its publication. Through an X platform post dated March 11, he highlighted that digital currency valuations had fallen over 50% in 2026 while questioning how his wealth could simultaneously increase.
“Wish they can apply some common sense and basic logic,” he wrote.
How Exchange Owners Can Gain During a Market Downturn
Cryptocurrency trading platforms generate income through transaction charges independent of market direction. When volatility spikes, trading activity typically intensifies, potentially boosting platform revenues even as asset prices tumble.
This mechanism explains how Binance’s corporate valuation could maintain or increase despite broader market contraction.
Zhao’s personal cryptocurrency portfolio hasn’t demonstrated similar resilience. His reported holdings of approximately 1,400 Bitcoin decreased roughly 25% in value annually, currently worth about $100 million. This represents a minor fraction of his total estimated net worth.
Online speculation suggested Zhao profited from short positions during the October 10 cryptocurrency market collapse, which sparked massive liquidations throughout derivatives trading. Zhao refuted these claims, stating: “Never shorted.”
Where Bitcoin, Ethereum, and XRP Stand Now
When Forbes released its assessment, Bitcoin traded around $71,000, with Ethereum near $2,080 and XRP hovering at approximately $1.40.
Binance additionally manages the BNB Chain, a blockchain platform with its proprietary token. This network maintains a market capitalization of roughly $88 billion.
