Binance founder and former CEO Changpeng “CZ” Zhao is once again stirring conversation with bold predictions for Bitcoin and the broader crypto market. Speaking on a new episode of Farokh Radio, CZ said he believes Bitcoin could surge to between $500,000 and $1 million during the current cycle, while projecting the total crypto market cap could reach $5 trillion by the end of 2025—nearly double its current level.
Although he avoided placing an exact timeline on Bitcoin’s rise, Zhao’s tone echoed previous comments he’s made over the years. Back in February, he humorously suggested that BTC could one day “crash” from $1,001,000 to $985,000—a scenario meant to illustrate the magnitude of future gains. Notably, his earlier call in 2020 that Bitcoin would eventually hit $100,000 proved prescient when BTC crossed that mark in December 2024.
At present, Bitcoin trades just under $94,000, with its all-time high of $108,786 still within reach. The total cryptocurrency market capitalization stands around $3 trillion, leaving significant upside if CZ’s projections play out.
Warns Against Memecoins, Touts AI and DeSci as the Future
Beyond price speculation, CZ used the interview to share his outlook on the future of crypto innovation. He expressed concern over the current memecoin frenzy, calling 99.99% of meme-based projects unsustainable. According to Zhao, these tokens often divert capital and attention away from more impactful sectors.
Instead, he highlighted artificial intelligence and decentralized science (DeSci) as the next major waves of innovation. CZ predicted a convergence of AI and blockchain, enabling secure, automated, and transparent systems that serve real-world needs. In the DeSci space, he emphasized the role of crypto in funding open scientific research and enabling decentralized collaboration across borders.
Zhao also praised the dramatic shift in U.S. regulatory policy under President Donald Trump’s administration, describing it as a “complete 180.” He believes the friendlier environment could accelerate U.S.-based crypto development and drive a new wave of institutional adoption.
DEXs, Life After Binance, and a New Role as Mentor
Reflecting on the future of crypto exchanges, Zhao reaffirmed his belief that decentralized exchanges (DEXs) will eventually eclipse centralized platforms. While both models are essential, he said, DEXs align more closely with crypto’s decentralized ethos. That said, he acknowledged that centralized platforms still play a critical role in onboarding users and ensuring access across global markets.
CZ also opened up about his personal life and the aftermath of his four-month prison sentence, which he described as emotionally difficult and transformative. The experience, he said, reoriented his priorities toward health, family, and personal well-being over career-driven goals.
Having stepped away from Binance leadership, Zhao stated that he has no intention of launching another major project. Instead, he plans to act as a mentor and strategic advisor to the next generation of crypto builders. “The Binance chapter is closed,” he said, adding that while he’d “love to have a pardon,” his focus is now firmly on supporting others.
Quick Facts
- Binance founder CZ predicts Bitcoin could reach between $500,000 and $1 million this cycle.
- He sees the total crypto market cap growing to $5 trillion by the end of 2025.
- Zhao warns against memecoins and champions AI and decentralized science as real growth drivers.
- Post-Binance, CZ plans to mentor new crypto entrepreneurs rather than lead another company.
