Changpeng Zhao (CZ), Binance’s co-founder, slammed the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) for what he calls a biased anti-crypto article, accusing them of using misleading information and negative assumptions. He believes this is part of a larger effort to undermine the US crypto industry.
CZ Denies Being a “Fixer”
The WSJ article claimed CZ acted as a “fixer” for World Liberty Financial (WLFI), a crypto venture linked to the Trump family, facilitating introductions for their international travels. CZ vehemently denies this, saying he didn’t connect WLFI with any foreign officials. He shared examples of inaccurate questions the WSJ asked his team, highlighting the flawed assumptions in their reporting. He admits to knowing Zach Witkoff, a WLFI co-founder, but insists he wasn’t involved in setting up any meetings for WLFI’s overseas ventures.
A Wider Conspiracy?
CZ believes powerful forces within the US are actively trying to sabotage the growth of the US crypto industry and attack its leaders. He sees the WSJ article as just one piece of this larger campaign to prevent the US from becoming a global crypto hub. He argues the article misrepresented facts and ignored crucial context.
The WSJ’s Perspective
The WSJ article expressed concern about the potential blurring of lines between private business dealings and government negotiations, particularly involving WLFI and Steve Witkoff (US Special Envoy to the Middle East) and his son, Zach. The article highlighted WLFI’s recent deal involving a large investment and questioned whether the Witkoffs’ connections were improperly used to influence foreign governments. WLFI’s spokesperson denied any wrongdoing, stating their business dealings are separate from US government affairs. The WSJ also referenced a previous report alleging discussions between the Trump family and Binance regarding a potential investment and a pardon for CZ, which CZ also denies.
