CZ's latest AMA: "Keep Building" is the only way to navigate through these challenging times.

After stepping down as the CEO of Binance, CZ recently appeared at the BNB Chain Annual AMA, attracting significant attention from the market. Without the constraints of a title, he offered more straightforward insights into crypto trends in 2026, the integration of AI and payment systems, as well as his own role in the industry. With the BNB Chain ecosystem continuing to develop and AI-related discussions growing increasingly popular, these insights not only provide valuable information about the direction of the industry but also serve as a realistic reminder for entrepreneurs.

1. Regarding retirement life: Freedom is the greatest luxury.

CZ said that his biggest feeling now is freedom. Although he has retired, he hasn’t stopped working. He still spends most of his energy on four main activities:

● Giggle Academy: A completely free educational platform; this is also his current flagship project.

● YZi Labs: Acts as mentors and coaches, helping entrepreneurs avoid pitfalls (not just by providing money).

● BNB Chain: Even though he doesn’t get involved in technical details, he still controls the overall direction.

● Government advisor: This is interesting. He is helping design regulatory frameworks for several countries including the Middle East and Pakistan. And he plays an important role in this process.

CZ also mentioned that he still maintains a regular lifestyle, exercising for 30-40 minutes every day, and trying more outdoor activities.

From creating rules to setting standards, this transition is quite stable.

2. The hidden growth of BNB Chain

Do many people think that BNB Chain isn’t exciting enough anymore? The data might prove otherwise:

● Transaction volume increased by 600% year-over-year.

● Daily active users exceeded 2 million.

● Even after CZ stepped back from the scene, Binance’s user count still surpassed 300 million.

The BNB ecosystem is like a NASDAQ-listed company—its total value far exceeds that of the NASDAQ exchange itself.

Although the crypto market is growing significantly, its share of global wealth remains less than 1%. There is still significant room for growth in the future.

CZ’s analysis of the past is insightful: In a marathon, one must be able to fight boxing while maintaining endurance for long distances. This is much harder than simply chasing short-term rankings. (3/9)

3. Predictive markets: A diverse landscape rather than a competitive mechanism.

Predictive markets have become very popular recently (PolyMarket succeeded in the US elections). Many competitors have emerged on the BNB Chain. CZ’s stance is to avoid competitive systems that lead to internal strife. Labs will not focus on just one competitor; instead, they will allow natural competition to occur. It’s too early to say who will win yet. What matters most is that the market grows larger.

4. Stablecoins 2.0: Returns are key.

If stablecoins don’t generate interest, then they belong to the 1.0 era (e.g., Tether). CZ believes that the core of Stablecoins 2.0 lies in generating returns and facilitating transactions. Models like Ethena(USDe), which can both generate income and be used for transactions, represent the future. As regulations are implemented, stablecoins will have more opportunities. Ultimately, it will be users and the market that determine success.

5. AI + Crypto: The most certain path to success.

This is very important! CZ believes that AI agents will represent the largest user group for encrypted payments. The logic is simple: robots cannot open bank accounts, undergo KYC processes, or use credit cards. Cryptocurrency is the only means of economic interaction through AI. There are huge opportunities available with blockchain-based payment networks designed specifically for AI purposes.

6. RWA: National-level entry points

When we talk about RWA (Real Assets on Chain), CZ has already been in discussions with national leaders. Many resource-rich countries (such as those producing oil and rare metals) have plenty of resources but lack liquidity. The tokenization of national resources is becoming a serious issue. This isn’t just about financing; it’s about increasing the liquidity of national assets. The context of this sector has changed significantly. (7/9)

7. Advice for entrepreneurs: Don’t be speculators.

CZ’s investment criteria are simple: mission-driven.

Want to make a million dollars and then run away?❌ That kind of person doesn’t deserve our attention right now.

Changing sectors every few months?❌ Lack of stability.

For those who want to switch careers, his advice is also practical: First, become top-tier in your field, then work on improving your emotional intelligence. After all, the essence of business lies in leveraging interpersonal relationships. (8/9)

In summary, it’s about navigating through cycles.

From this AMA, it seems like CZ has changed—he’s more detached and focuses more on macro-level issues.

As he said, whether it’s AI or SocialFi, no matter who is leading right now, the only way to navigate through these cycles is by continuing to build progress. Nvidia waited 40 years before making a breakthrough. Why rush?

2026 belongs to those who can endure long periods of waiting.