Binance Co-Founder CZ Backs ASEAN Crypto License Passporting

July 28, 2026 · Regulation · CryptoRefuge Team

Binance Co-Founder CZ Backs ASEAN Crypto License Passporting

Binance co-founder Changpeng Zhao has expressed support for crypto license passporting across the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), a move that could simplify regulatory compliance and boost competition in the region's fragmented markets. The introduction of a regional licensing framework would enable crypto companies to operate in multiple ASEAN countries with a single license, reducing the need for separate registrations and compliance procedures. This could lead to increased investment, job creation, and economic growth in the region.

Live market snapshot (at publish): BTC $63,424 (-3.0% 24h)

$150B in total crypto market capitalization is at stake in ASEAN, with countries like Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand already making significant strides in crypto adoption. The implementation of a regional licensing framework could further accelerate this growth, making ASEAN a more attractive destination for crypto investors and entrepreneurs. A unified regulatory framework is essential for the development of a thriving crypto ecosystem in ASEAN.

Changpeng Zhao, also known as CZ, believes that the lack of a unified regulatory framework is largely a political issue.

"I think that’s mostly a political problem" — Changpeng Zhao, Binance co-founder. This sentiment is shared by other industry leaders, who emphasize the need for regulatory clarity and cooperation among ASEAN member states.

Article Chart The potential benefits of a unified ASEAN crypto regulatory framework are numerous, including attracting more investment, increasing transparency, and providing better protection for consumers. It would enable crypto companies to scale their operations more efficiently, fostering innovation and competition in the market.

Analysis: If a regional licensing framework is implemented, it could lead to increased investment and growth in the ASEAN crypto market. However, the success of such a framework depends on the ability of ASEAN member states to cooperate and establish a unified regulatory approach. The ASEAN crypto market is expected to continue growing, driven by increasing demand for digital assets and the expansion of crypto services in the region. As regulators and industry leaders work together to establish a clear and consistent regulatory framework, the region is poised to become a major hub for crypto innovation and investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is crypto license passporting?
Crypto license passporting allows companies to operate in multiple jurisdictions with a single license, simplifying regulatory compliance.
How will ASEAN crypto license passporting impact the market?
A regional licensing framework could reduce compliance costs, encourage competition, and make it easier for crypto services to operate across ASEAN's fragmented regulatory markets.
What are the potential benefits of a unified ASEAN crypto regulatory framework?
A unified framework could attract more investment, increase transparency, and provide better protection for consumers in the region.