Binance’s CZ Surpasses Bill Gates in Forbes Wealth Rankings at $110 Billion

TLDR Changpeng Zhao’s wealth is pegged at $110 billion by Forbes, securing him the 17th position globally This valuation positions CZ above Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, who sits at $108 billion Zhao challenged the assessment publicly, noting cryptocurrency valuations collapsed more than 50% in 2026 CZ’s fortune stems primarily from owning approximately 90% of Binance equity, rather than cryptocurrency tokens The exchange commands roughly 38% of worldwide crypto trading volume and pulled in an estimated $16–17 billion during 2024–2025 Changpeng Zhao, who founded the cryptocurrency exchange Binance, now ranks above Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates in wealth, according to fresh estimates from Forbes. The publication’s March 10 assessment values Zhao’s fortune at roughly $110 billion. A year and a half ago, Changpeng Zhao was just getting out of jail. Now, crypto’s richest mogul has ridden a rebound in Binance’s valuation—and friends in high places—to his highest net worth ever. Here's where CZ ranks on the #ForbesBillionaires list: https://t.co/DjuKM8ftj3… pic.twitter.com/VwslVIyUUK — Forbes (@Forbes) March 10, 2026 This valuation secures Zhao the 17th spot on Forbes’ worldwide billionaire rankings. Gates trails slightly behind at approximately $108 billion. Zhao established Binance, which has become the dominant force in cryptocurrency trading globally. His tenure as chief executive ended in 2023 following a guilty plea to charges related to inadequate anti-money laundering compliance. The legal settlement required Zhao to pay $50 million personally and complete a four-month sentence at a California correctional facility. Separately, Binance settled with authorities for $4.3 billion in fines. Though no longer serving as CEO, Zhao reportedly maintains ownership of roughly 90% of Binance’s equity. This substantial stake forms the foundation of his estimated net worth. Financial experts place Binance’s valuation near $100 billion. The platform facilitates tens of t...