Binance Co-Founder Yi He Takes the Helm as Co-CEO in 2025: What This Means for Crypto’s Top Exchange
- Who is Yi He and Why Does Her Promotion Matter?
- The New Power Dynamic at Binance
- Changpeng Zhao Weighs In
- What This Means for Binance Users
- The Road Ahead for Crypto's Top Exchange
- FAQ: Binance's Leadership Shakeup
In a major leadership shakeup, Binance co-founder Yi He has stepped into the co-CEO role alongside Richard Teng, marking a new chapter for the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange. This power-sharing arrangement comes two years after former CEO Changpeng Zhao's forced departure, signaling Binance's continued evolution amid regulatory challenges. With Yi He's promotion from head of customer service to shared leadership, the exchange appears to be doubling down on its user-centric philosophy while navigating an increasingly complex global crypto landscape.
Who is Yi He and Why Does Her Promotion Matter?
Yi He isn't just another executive - she's been instrumental in shaping Binance since day one. As co-founder, she helped architect Binance's meteoric rise from startup to industry titan. Her promotion reflects the exchange's commitment to maintaining its founding vision while adapting to new realities. "Yi has been integral to Binance's leadership team since launch," Teng noted during his announcement at Binance Blockchain Week in Dubai. "Her innovative, user-first approach has been crucial in defining our vision, culture, and business strategy."
The New Power Dynamic at Binance
The co-CEO structure, while uncommon in crypto, isn't unprecedented. Kraken operates similarly with David Ripley and Arjun Sethi sharing leadership. But all eyes are on how this will play out at Binance. Yi He brings DEEP institutional knowledge and product expertise, while Teng offers decades of experience in regulated financial markets. "I'm honored to collaborate with Richard," Yi He stated. "Together we bring diverse perspectives to shape the industry's future during this pivotal period."
Changpeng Zhao Weighs In
The former CEO didn't hold back his support, tweeting that Yi He "should have been CEO from day one" eight years ago. When asked about a potential return, Zhao cryptically responded: "Life moves forward." This endorsement carries weight, given Zhao's continued influence despite his legal troubles.
What This Means for Binance Users
For traders on BTCC and other platforms watching this development, the leadership change signals continuity with a twist. Yi He's promotion suggests Binance will likely:
- Double down on user experience improvements
- Maintain its aggressive growth strategy
- Navigate regulatory challenges with Teng's expertise
The Road Ahead for Crypto's Top Exchange
With trading volume data from CoinMarketCap showing Binance still dominates with over $18B in daily volume, the new leadership faces both opportunity and challenge. The co-CEO model could prove brilliant - combining Yi He's product vision with Teng's regulatory savvy. Or it could lead to power struggles. Either way, 2025 is shaping up to be a defining year for the exchange that's come to symbolize crypto's wild ride.
FAQ: Binance's Leadership Shakeup
Who are the current CEOs of Binance?
As of 2025, Binance is led by co-CEOs Richard Teng and Yi He, with Yi He recently promoted from her role leading customer service.
How does Binance's co-CEO structure compare to other exchanges?
Kraken also uses a co-CEO model, though it's rare in crypto. Most exchanges like BTCC and Coinbase maintain single CEO structures.
What was Changpeng Zhao's reaction to Yi He's promotion?
Zhao publicly supported the move, stating Yi He should have been CEO "from day one" eight years ago.
How might this affect Binance's regulatory strategy?
Teng's regulatory experience combined with Yi He's operational knowledge could help Binance navigate increasing global compliance demands.