- CZ says DEXs will soon surpass CEXs as traders shift to self-custody and transparent systems.
- AI trading tools set to simplify execution and widen retail access in global crypto markets.
- RWAs and treasury models highlighted as vital forces driving blockchain’s next phase of growth.
Binance’s CZ Predicts DEXs Will Overtake CEXs
At the BNBDay event in Tokyo, Binance founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ) delivered a vision of where crypto is heading. His central prediction was bold: decentralized exchanges (DEXs) will one day surpass centralized exchanges (CEXs) in trading activity.
Zhao shared that had he started his journey today, he would have worked on a privacy-preserving perpetual DEX and a simple AI trading agent. This combo has, in his words, a natural evolution of DeFi written all over it, improving users’ control and efficiency while eliminating unnecessary middlemen.
“An AI trading agent for simple execution and a privacy-preserving, sustainable decentralized exchange (DEX). I believe DEX trading volume will one day surpass centralized exchanges (CEX). DeFi is the future,” CZ told the audience.
This prediction is supported by the rise of new platforms like Hyperliquid, which have recently eclipsed the daily trading volumes of legacy centralized platforms such as Coinbase and Bybit. The change, as outlined by Zhao, highlights the shift toward the adoption of self-custody, openness, and trustless systems.
Fiat gateways and regulatory compliance are still run by centralized platforms, but users seem to be demanding more freedom; hence, the trend is gravitating toward decentralized solutions. As a driving factor for change, Zhao also introduced artificial intelligence (AI) into the picture. As he explained, AI is crucial for retail trading automation, as it enables complex markets to be managed with ease.
Zhao asserted that by combining AI and decentralized infrastructure, the next generation of trading platforms can gain what centralized models fail to: transparency, enhanced efficiency, and long-term stability. Similarly, he concluded that as stablecoins advance and tokenized real-world assets develop, AI could be the missing component to bring decentralized finance to the global mainstream.
Real-World Assets and Treasury Models
Moving beyond exchanges, Zhao identified real-world assets (RWAs) as the next dimension of blockchain development. He posited that the tokenization of securities, treasuries, and commodities can be a gateway to immense possibilities, but warned that regulation, liquidity, and KYC requirements are significant obstacles.
In spite of this, he disclosed that BNB Chain is investing heavily to facilitate RWA development, with builders interested in tokenized financial products. “RWA is still in its early stages but has high potential,” he said, framing the sector as one of the most promising bridges between traditional finance and crypto.
Not to leave out, Zhao addressed the rise of digital asset treasury (DAT) companies, which package crypto exposure for public markets. These firms, he noted, lower barriers for institutions and individuals who want structured access to digital assets.
He added that the most straightforward and most sustainable approach has often been the single-asset treasury model. Examples include MicroStrategy’s heavy Bitcoin accumulation and CEA’s commitment to BNB, both of which showcase how one-token strategies can provide clarity and focus.
BNB Chain and Japan’s Role in Web3
Switching topics, Zhao talked about his role in BNB Chain, informing that the project is “mostly community-driven.” He said that, rather than a decision-maker, he is more of a cheerleader. “I don’t do much, mostly tweeting and encouraging people to BUILD. I’m more like a cheerleader,” he admitted, adding that a significant part of his wealth is tied to BNB.
Japan, Zhao noted, remains a key hub in Web3 development. He recalled how the country became one of the first to recognize Bitcoin legally in 2017. Since then, it has cultivated strong developer talent, clear laws, and a culture open to experimentation. In his view, Japan is set to continue playing a critical role in shaping the future of crypto.
Expressing further interest, he stated that he wishes to see additional AI and robotics projects developed by Japanese creators on the BNB Chain, citing the country’s distinct capability to combine advanced robotics and blockchain. “Japan is ideal for technological development and has a great business culture,” Zhao said, positioning the country as a natural partner in the growth of DeFi and tokenization.
