After serving a four-month prison sentence in the U.S. for violating anti-money laundering laws, former Binance CEO Changpeng ‘CZ’ Zhao is back in the crypto world. His return is marked by a significant move—an investment of $16 million in blockchain platform Sign, signaling his continued influence in the industry.
Investing in Blockchain Growth
On January 28, YZi Labs (formerly Binance Labs) announced their investment in Sign, a blockchain-based token airdrop service. The company’s mission is to enhance global token distribution for both individuals and AI agents, a step that could accelerate blockchain adoption. CZ, despite no longer holding an executive role at Binance, actively participated in this $16 million funding round, further cementing his commitment to blockchain, Web3, and DeFi startups.
— YZi Labs (@BinanceLabs) January 28, 2025
Though he faces restrictions that prevent him from holding executive positions or influencing Binance’s operations, this move highlights that CZ remains deeply involved in the crypto ecosystem.
Why Did CZ Choose Sign?
Sign’s focus on airdrop distribution for new cryptocurrencies stands out, especially with its secure token launch system. The platform ensures reliability and trustworthiness by employing strict identity verification rules for all participants. This approach aligns with CZ’s ongoing interest in shaping the future of blockchain technology, prioritizing safety and trust.
Impressive Growth and Future Plans
Since its 2021 launch, Sign has experienced impressive growth, earning $1.7 million in revenue in 2023, which skyrocketed to $15 million in 2024. According to Sign’s CEO, Xin Yan, the surge is largely due to the success of the Open Network (TON) blockchain and increased token airdrops. With the fresh funding, Sign plans to expand globally and explore ways to integrate blockchain technology into government systems. Its emphasis on on-chain identity verification could pave the way for safer, more mainstream crypto adoption.
In addition to CZ, other major investors in this funding round include Altos Ventures, HackVC, and Amber Ventures. Their support further underscores the confidence in Sign’s potential to revolutionize the blockchain and crypto industries.
With CZ’s backing, Sign is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of blockchain token distribution.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of Chain Affairs. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. Chain Affairs is not responsible for any financial losses.