Changpeng Zhao, Binance’s former CEO, said he would invest any money returned from Binance’s $4.3 billion settlement in the US as a gesture of appreciation.

The crypto entrepreneur expressed gratitude for a recent presidential pardon. He noted that he had not requested a refund and was unsure if any would be granted.

Binance paid the $4.3 billion fine in November 2023 as part of a comprehensive settlement with the Department of Justice and other US agencies to resolve charges including anti-money laundering violations and sanctions evasion. CZ stepped down as CEO and served a four-month prison sentence as part of the agreement.

The settlement marked one of the largest corporate penalties in crypto history and allowed Binance to continue operations under enhanced compliance oversight.