Changpeng Zhao calls for unified crypto regulation at Davos

At Davos 2026, Changpeng Zhao called for unified crypto regulation, discussed slow payment adoption, warned about meme coins, and revealed talks on tokenizing state assets.

At the 2026 World Economic Forum in Davos, Binance founder Changpeng Zhao addressed the future of cryptocurrency regulation, adoption of crypto payments, and the rise of asset tokenization. He emphasized the need for adaptable, unified global crypto regulations, highlighting challenges such as differing capital controls and tax policies. Zhao noted that mainstream adoption of crypto payments remains limited due to user habits, regulatory barriers, and low demand. He also warned about the speculative nature of meme coins, stating that most lack real utility and sustainability. A major highlight was Zhao's announcement of ongoing discussions with about a dozen governments on tokenizing state-owned assets. He explained that tokenization could enable fractional ownership, enhance liquidity, and improve transparency in public asset management. Zhao also predicted that AI-driven transactions would increasingly use crypto as their native currency. During the forum, the US President introduced a new crypto market structure bill, boosting Bitcoin prices by 1.7% and signaling optimism about regulatory progress.