New Binance CEO Richard Teng pitches ‘very strong’ foundation to skeptics

Regulation

Amid ongoing confusion, uncertainty and rumors around the recent departure of Changpeng “CZ” Zhao as Binance CEO, his replacement, the new Binance CEO Richard Teng, took to X (formerly Twitter) to attempt to boost investor confidence.

Soon after CZ announced he was stepping down, Binance critics on X (formerly Twitter) shared their opinions on what lies ahead for the crypto exchange. While some sought details on the source of funds for CZ’s and Binance’s legal proceedings that exceed $4 billion in total, others claimed mistrust due to discrepancies in Binance’s previously shared proof of reserves (PoR).

Coinbase director Conor Grogan estimates that Binance will be able to pay off the hefty fines imposed by the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) without having to sell any crypto assets.

“The fundamentals of our business are very strong,” reassured Teng as he retweeted Grogan’s analysis. He said the crypto exchange takes in robust revenues and profits despite low platform fees.

In his introductory tweet as Binance’s new CEO, Teng stated that “the foundation on which Binance stands today is stronger than ever.” For starters, Teng will focus on three aspects of the business — reinstating investor confidence, collaboration with regulators and driving Web3 adoption, he said.

Related: Breaking: Binance’s CZ to plead guilty to violating Anti-Money Laundering requirements — WSJ

In his exit note, CZ confirmed his plans to remain associated with Binance as a shareholder, adding, “I will remain available to the team to consult as needed, consistent with the framework set out in our U.S. agency resolutions.”

CZ will also focus on decentralized finance (DeFI) initiatives while mentoring several startup entrepreneurs.

Magazine: Breaking into Liberland: Dodging guards with inner-tubes, decoys and diplomats