Rumors flew faster than a blockchain transaction about whether Changpeng Zhao, better known as CZ, the legendary Binance founder, is launching a new crypto project called Aster.
After some eyebrow-raising posts on X, the crypto community buzzed, have some former Binance stars jumped ship to build the next big decentralized exchange under CZ’s wing?
Not on the team, just an advisor.
— CZ 🔶 BNB (@cz_binance) September 28, 2025
The seasoned coach
Time to clear the fog. CZ confirmed that a handful of ex-Binance employees are now working with Aster.
His company, YZi Labs, holds a small stake in the project. But, and here’s the plot twist, CZ himself is not officially on Aster’s team.
Not on the team, just an advisor, he said, making sure everyone understands the difference between managing day-to-day and dropping wisdom from the sidelines.
Think of him as the seasoned coach shouting instructions from the press box, not suiting up for the game.
What’s truly intriguing is CZ’s chill attitude about Aster competing with Binance. He sees the crypto universe as enormous enough to host many exchanges without breaking a sweat.
Supporting innovation, even when it means rivals, apparently keeps the market spicy and strong.
Imagine a friendly, yet fierce, remix battle between DEXs where everyone brings their A-game.
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Trust, scrutinity, and attention
The community’s reaction is a mixed cocktail of excitement and caution. Some view CZ’s advisory nod as a trust seal, boosting Aster’s chances to skyrocket with veteran Binance pros at the helm.
Others fear extra scrutiny and attention, fearing the weight of CZ’s shadow might attract unwanted drama. His clear-cut statement seems to have calmed most nerves, at least for now.
Market turbulence doesn’t help either. Ethereum’s recent 9% slide triggered a brutal $1.5 billion in liquidations, pulling down $Aster and other tokens like a rowdy crypto house of cards.
To spice matters up, half the supply, 53.5% is earmarked for future airdrops, which could add fuel to the selling frenzy. Traders are hanging onto the $1.76 support level like it’s their lifeline.
Risky, but rewarding project
Aster’s launch is part of a bigger shift, where veteran teams spinning up new DEXs to challenge established players like dYdX and GMX.
Having ex-Binance talent onboard adds street cred, and CZ’s advisory role puts a spotlight on this risky, but potentially rewarding project.
In the end, CZ on Aster demonstrates his lingering superpower in crypto storytelling. Despite stepping back from Binance’s day-to-day, CZ’s name still commands attention, still sparking hype and debate.
With the record set straight, Aster can flex its independence, while everyone waits to see if this underdog DEX can carve its own corner in the sprawling crypto market with a little CZ wisdom guiding the way.
Disclosure:This article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision.
Kriptoworld.com accepts no liability for any errors in the articles or for any financial loss resulting from incorrect information.
Cryptocurrency and Web3 expert, founder of Kriptoworld
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With years of experience covering the blockchain space, András delivers insightful reporting on DeFi, tokenization, altcoins, and crypto regulations shaping the digital economy.
📅 Published: September 29, 2025 • 🕓 Last updated: September 29, 2025
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