CZ’s Davos takeaway: prison, pardon, and a possible Bitcoin supercycle in 2026

Binance founder Changpeng Zhao said his four‑month prison sentence for AML controls violations and his Trump‑issued pardon have shifted his outlook. He dismissed any political motive behind the pardon, described becoming “a real free man,” and noted he does not trade crypto, instead taking a long‑term view. Zhao also said he briefly considered acquiring FTX but pulled back due to concerns over financial disclosures. Looking ahead, he suggested bitcoin could break its four‑year cycle and enter a 2026 supercycle, aided by a more pro‑crypto stance from the U.S. and other countries.