CZ Addresses Speculation Around KOL Interaction: "Just 3 Chats and a 10-Minute Chat"

The co-founder of a major cryptocurrency exchange has publicly dismissed swirling rumors of a romantic connection following a brief encounter with a crypto influencer at Blockchain Week in Dubai. The story began on December 4, when Changpeng Zhao engaged in a high-profile debate against gold advocate Peter Schiff. During the event, a KOL named Tintin—known for her work in the crypto space—appeared onstage to present Zhao with a commemorative gold box as part of a promotional moment. The interaction was recorded and subsequently went viral when Tintin posted about the weight of the gift on social media.

Setting the Record Straight

What might have remained a simple promotional moment quickly spiraled into gossip within the cryptocurrency community. Various online discussions began speculating about a deeper connection between the two individuals. Zhao responded directly via X (formerly Twitter), providing clarity on the extent of their interaction. He emphasized that his entire engagement with Tintin consisted of exchanging three messages and a brief 10-minute meeting before the event kicked off. The decision to have someone hand him the box onstage was spontaneous, with no prior coordination.

“Apparently there’s gossip about me now? The market must really be quiet if that’s what people are discussing,” Zhao remarked with visible sarcasm, before encouraging observers to focus on other developments in the industry.

Leadership Transitions and Personal Clarity

The timing of these rumors proved noteworthy, emerging just one day after a major announcement on December 3. Yi He, Zhao’s long-term partner and mother of their three children, was announced as co-CEO of the major exchange, representing the organization’s most significant leadership restructuring since Zhao’s departure from the CEO role in 2023.

When addressing questions about balancing her dual roles, Yi He drew a firm distinction. “My personal circumstances remain entirely separate from my professional responsibilities,” she stated to media representatives. “My contributions and professional capabilities are frequently overshadowed by conversations about my personal life,” she added, highlighting the ongoing challenge female executives face in the industry.

Regional Expansion and Regulatory Progress

Beyond the Dubai speculation, Zhao’s recent activities have centered on broadening the exchange’s international presence. On December 12, he participated in discussions with Pakistan’s Finance Minister regarding cryptocurrency regulatory frameworks. The visit coincided with a significant development: Pakistan’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority granted no-objection certificates to multiple major exchanges, representing a substantial step toward establishing comprehensive licensing arrangements in the region.

“An important achievement for our operations in Pakistan,” officials noted, emphasizing the authority’s receipt of anti-money laundering registration. “We remain committed to developing a secure, transparent, and forward-looking digital asset environment together.”

Having served as an adviser to Pakistan’s Crypto Council since April 2024, Zhao appears instrumental in the nation’s efforts to establish itself as a progressive crypto hub in South Asia.

As for the Dubai speculation? Zhao has made his position abundantly clear—though the crypto community’s rumor mill continues churning regardless.