Binance Founder CZ Describes Prison Experience As 'Extremely Difficult'

Binance founder Changpeng Zhao, commonly known as CZ, has opened up about his four-month prison experience in the United States, describing it as "extremely difficult" and "frightening." In an interview with Rug Radio, CZ shared that he would not wish this experience on anyone. However, he also noted that the ordeal made him realize the importance of health and family.

CZ recalled his initial anxiety and fear upon entering prison, where he encountered heavily tattooed and noisy inmates. His cellmate, who had been sentenced to 30 years for a double murder, surprisingly became a source of comfort. Despite his non-U.S. citizenship, CZ was unable to enter a minimum-security prison and was instead sent to a low-security facility. Despite his status as the founder of Binance and his billion-dollar net worth, his fellow inmates did not treat him differently. Many of his cellmates were friendly, and he still keeps in touch with several of them.

The most challenging aspect for CZ was the mental pressure of worrying that his sentence could be extended at any moment. He pointed out that many of his friends in prison had experienced similar fates. This experience led him to reevaluate his priorities, placing health and family above work and other concerns. CZ also revealed that he plans to publish a new book detailing his prison life, offering a deeper insight into his experiences behind bars.