Binance Founder CZ: I Traded My $900K Shanghai Apartment for Bitcoin in 2014

Changpeng Zhao, commonly known as CZ, made headlines with his bold investment decisions during a critical time in Bitcoin’s journey. In 2014, he sold his Shanghai apartment for approximately $900,000 to capitalize on the Bitcoin dip. This decision was driven by his strong belief in Bitcoin’s future potential despite not having a stable job.
Early Encounter with Bitcoin
In 2013, Zhao discovered Bitcoin and spent around six months delving into its white paper and engaging with early adopters. During this period, Bitcoin’s price experienced a remarkable rise, climbing from approximately $70 to over $1,000 by late 2013.
Tactical Entry into Bitcoin Investment
- 2013: CZ becomes acquainted with Bitcoin.
- 2014: Sells his Shanghai apartment to invest in Bitcoin.
- Initial investment price was around $600.
By the time Zhao was ready to invest, Bitcoin’s momentum had shifted, and the market was in decline. With Bitcoin’s price decreasing towards $400, he interpreted the downturn as an opportunity rather than a sign to withdraw.
Commitment to Cryptocurrency
In tandem with his investment maneuvers, Zhao transitioned away from his previous job to pursue a full-time career in cryptocurrency. He joined Blockchain.com (formerly known as Blockchain.info) shortly after selling his apartment, further solidifying his involvement in the sector.
Building Expertise and Founding Binance
As he gained experience in trading infrastructure and digital asset markets, Zhao laid the groundwork for his future ventures. In 2017, he founded Binance, which rapidly ascended to become one of the leading cryptocurrency exchanges globally.
| Key Milestones | Year |
|---|---|
| Discovered Bitcoin | 2013 |
| Sold Shanghai Apartment | 2014 |
| Joined Blockchain.com | 2014 |
| Founded Binance | 2017 |
Zhao believes Bitcoin represents one of the most significant technological innovations in modern history. His early investment decisions reflect a strong conviction in its long-term value. Through various market cycles, Zhao’s risk tolerance and commitment to the cryptocurrency space underscored the narrative of Bitcoin’s initial adopters. His journey from selling real estate to establishing a global cryptocurrency exchange serves as a compelling case study in entrepreneurial spirit and foresight.
This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not constitute financial advice. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research before making any investment decisions.




