Changpeng Zhao Returns to Crypto with $16M Investment in Sign

Former Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao (CZ) has made his first major move in the cryptocurrency space since serving a four-month U.S. prison sentence. Through YZi Labs, Zhao has invested $16 million into Sign, a blockchain platform specializing in token airdrops and credential verification.

This investment follows his $4.3 billion settlement with U.S. authorities and marks a strategic step back into the crypto industry, focusing on blockchain infrastructure amid a surge in token launches.

Sign’s Growth Fueled by TON Blockchain

Sign has seen rapid expansion, particularly on the TON blockchain, due to the increasing popularity of token airdrops. The company reported a dramatic revenue increase, from $1.7 million in 2023 to $15 million in 2024.

CEO Xin Yan attributes this growth to Sign’s ability to handle large-scale airdrops efficiently while maintaining transparency in token distribution. The company’s flagship tool, TokenTable, addresses challenges like identity verification and fraud prevention in airdrop campaigns.

As new token projects emerge, airdrops remain a key method for attracting users and distributing assets, creating a high demand for reliable verification tools. Sign aims to expand internationally, working with governments to implement on-chain identity verification solutions.

CZ’s View on Meme Coins and Crypto Trends

Despite re-entering the crypto space, Zhao remains cautious about certain market trends, particularly the meme coin boom.

While acknowledging their role in bringing new investors into the market, he questioned their intrinsic value and highlighted their high volatility. He recently commented on meme coin controversies, including the TRUMP coin, and emphasized that while decentralization allows freedom of choice, meme coins may not hold long-term value.

Although he has not invested in meme coins or NFTs, Zhao continues to support diverse approaches in crypto investing.

Strategic Focus on Blockchain Innovation

Since his release, Zhao has diversified his investments into artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and blockchain. His firm, YZi Labs (formerly Binance Labs), manages over $10 billion in crypto-related assets.

With additional backing from Altos Ventures, HackVC, and Amber Ventures, Sign aims to solidify its leadership in token distribution and blockchain-based identity verification.

Zhao’s return signals a growing industry focus on security and efficiency, aligning with broader trends shaping the future of digital asset markets.

Conclusion

Changpeng Zhao’s $16 million investment in Sign marks his official return to the crypto industry, emphasizing infrastructure and security over speculative trends.

While meme coins dominate headlines, Zhao’s move suggests that long-term growth in crypto will come from technological advancements and regulatory-compliant solutions. His involvement with Sign reinforces the importance of trust, transparency, and efficiency in the evolving blockchain ecosystem.