Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao (CZ) recently discussed his decision to exit Binance's investment in FTX during a February 10, 2026, appearance on the All-In Podcast. CZ highlighted that comments made by FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried in Washington and the offering of salaries five times higher to VIP managers were key factors influencing his decision. Despite having veto rights, CZ opted to divest, completing the transaction in July 2021, well before FTX's subsequent crisis. CZ clarified that as a passive investor with interests in competing futures platforms, he did not examine FTX's financial statements and was unaware of any internal issues. This strategic move occurred 1.5 years prior to FTX's collapse, underscoring CZ's proactive approach in managing Binance's investment portfolio.