CZ Gets Picky: Ex-Binance Boss Wants Fundamentals, Not Just ‘Fancy Models’

Former Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao (CZ) turned down an acclaimed innovator’s proposal to collaborate on an idea for tokenizing assets.

In his latest post on X, Zhao revealed an email exchange where an “acclaimed innovator” offered to partner on or sell an idea.

A real exchange I had on https://t.co/TEEwkPQFIa. An example of what not to do.

Incoming message (paid 0.6 BNB):

Proposal for a Revolutionary Asset Tokenization Model
Dear cz,
I hope this message finds you well. My name is X, and I am based in Dubai. I am reaching out to…

— CZ BNB (@cz_binance) April 3, 2025

Zhao posted his rejection email, highlighting why he declined. The Binance co-founder stated that buying ideas isn’t his focus and “fancy models” don’t interest him.

Related: The Product-Market Fit Test: When Do AI Agents Actually Need a Token? (CZ View)

CZ Outlines Core Investment Principles

Zhao’s reply detailed key aspects of his investment philosophy for stakeholders seeking collaboration. He emphasized a “focus on fundamentals,” scrutinizing crypto ideas based on tangible metrics: product viability, user growth, revenues/profits, and team strength. He considers these the backbone of any project requiring stability before investment consideration.

Beyond fundamentals, Zhao reiterated his long-term strategy: investing early in projects and holding for the long run. He acknowledged the risks of early adoption, noting many ventures fail, but stated that disproportionate rewards from successful ones should outweigh setbacks.

Zhao also clarified his preference for investing in “mission-driven founders.” He believes great companies stem from this mindset, arguing money-focused founders often plateau, while those committed to a higher aim build more sustainable, impactful businesses.

Related: Binance CZ Says Not Every AI Agent Needs a Token

Lastly, Zhao clarified that he prefers to invest in mission-driven founders. According to him, Great companies arise from a mission-driven mindset, as money-focused founders often falter after a medium level of success. In contrast, those committed to a higher aim create more sustainable, impactful businesses.

The acclaimed innovator who messaged Zhao described his idea as a groundbreaking approach that enables the creation of diverse financial products and expands the use of real estate, commodities, and stocks as backing and collateral within the cryptocurrency ecosystem.

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