Binance Co-Founder Donates $630K to Earthquake Relief in Myanmar & Thailand
On March 28, a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Thailand and Myanmar, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. With more than 1,700 people reported dead and hundreds injured, the disaster left both nations reeling. In the midst of the chaos, Myanmar’s military government declared a state of emergency and called on the global community for help, while major cities like Mandalay and Bangkok suffered severe infrastructure damage, including the collapse of a high-rise building.
In response to the crisis, Changpeng Zhao , co-founder of Binance, stepped forward with a generous crypto donation. During the Binance Earthquake Donation campaign, he donated 1,000 BNB tokens—roughly equivalent to $630,000. The donation was split evenly, with 500 BNB sent to Myanmar and 500 BNB to Thailand, aimed at supporting the reconstruction of infrastructure, providing medical aid, and enhancing emergency services.
Changpeng Zhao social media post about his pledge inspired others in the crypto community to contribute as well. For instance, Anndy Liann donated 44 BNB to nonprofits assisting with relief efforts in Myanmar. This move highlights how cryptocurrency is emerging as a powerful tool for humanitarian aid. Unlike traditional funding channels that can be slow due to banking limitations and regulatory hurdles, crypto donations offer quick, transparent, and borderless support in times of crisis.
The growing use of cryptocurrencies in disaster relief is changing the way aid is delivered globally. Previous events, such as the Turkey-Syria earthquake and the Maui wildfires in 2023, have shown that digital assets can mobilize funds rapidly and efficiently. As more organizations turn to blockchain technology for donations, crypto is increasingly recognized as a reliable option for immediate and corruption-free financial assistance in emergency situations.
Beyond his charitable contributions, Changpeng Zhao as also been busy restructuring his business ventures. Notably, Binance Labs has been rebranded as YZi Labs, which now manages about US$10 billion in crypto assets. This strategic shift is paving the way for investments in artificial intelligence and biotechnology, further cementing Zhao’s influence in the tech and crypto industries.