Shocking news has emerged from the crypto world. According to a Financial Times (FT) report, YZi Labs, a $10 billion investment company owned by Binance founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ), is considering opening itself to external investors. This move is even said to potentially transform YZi into a public fund.

However, as usual, drama can’t be separated from CZ’s name. He immediately denied the report through his official X (Twitter) account.

What Did the Financial Times Say?

In its report, FT quoted a statement from Ella Zhang, head of YZi Labs. She noted:

• Investor interest in YZi Labs is very strong.
• The company is still at an early stage of exploration.
• Paul Atkins, a former SEC Commissioner who now serves as a regulatory adviser, reportedly requested a private demo after missing YZi’s event at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).
• YZi Labs received more than 50 token project proposals this summer, with 70% of its portfolio consisting of digital assets.

If true, opening access to external investors could further solidify YZi Labs as a major player in the global crypto investment scene.

Firm Denial from CZ

Shortly after the report gained attention, CZ spoke out on X:

“This FT report is false. YZi Labs has never raised external funds, never prepared fundraising materials, and never had any contact or demo with Paul Atkins.” – @cz_binance

CZ added that since YZi Labs’ rebranding, the company has never interacted with external investors and remains inseparable from the Binance ecosystem.

Why Is This Making Headlines?

CZ and Binance are always in the spotlight, especially after CZ’s legal case in the U.S. Speculation that YZi Labs could become a public fund raises major questions:

• Is this CZ’s step to separate himself from Binance?
• Or just a media misinterpretation of YZi’s business direction?

One thing is clear: CZ’s quick denial shows how sensitive this issue is amid strict global regulations on the crypto industry.

Conclusion

The drama between FT’s report and CZ’s denial once again highlights one thing: the crypto world is always full of hot rumors. Whether YZi Labs will truly open its doors to external investors or remain a “closed company” like Binance still remains to be seen.

For now, all we can do is wait for an official move from CZ and his team. What’s certain is that YZi Labs’ development will continue to be a major focus in the global crypto landscape.