Changpeng Zhao details life after prison in exclusive NYT report

Most people leave prison and look for a fresh start. Changpeng Zhao went back to Abu Dhabi, a nine-bedroom villa, four bodyguards and a yacht named ‘Da Moon’. A New York Times reporter spent time with the Binance founder, widely known as CZ, and documented what life looks like for him after his release. The short version: a guilty plea has not made him any less central to crypto. Inside the post-prison routine CZ served four months in prison for anti-money laundering violations. He was released in September 2024. About a year later, in October 2025, President Trump pardoned him. Today, CZ lives in Abu Dhabi in a villa with nine bedrooms. His household staff includes four bodyguards and a chef. His net worth is estimated at $114 billion. During a June 2026 reporting drive, he got behind the wheel of a white Nissan SUV, leaning into his self-image as a “normal dude.” His calendar also extends far beyond Abu Dhabi. CZ has traveled extensively across Asia by private jet, advising governments on how to build regulatory frameworks for crypto. Beyond the government work, he takes part in a range of investment and educational initiatives. Binance, the plea deal, and the Trump connection CZ...