Binance Zhao Predicts DEX Growth Backed by AI and RWA

TLDR

Table of Contents

Hyperliquid DEX recently surpassed major CEXs like Coinbase in trading volume.
CZ says AI trading agents will simplify execution on decentralized exchanges.
BNB Chain is investing in RWA protocols like securities and commodities.
CZ believes DEX volume will one day exceed CEX due to privacy and control.

Decentralized exchanges (DEXs) are gaining momentum as interest in privacy, automation, and self-custody grows. Binance founder Changpeng Zhao recently backed this shift during an event in Tokyo. He believes the success of platforms like Hyperliquid marks a turning point in crypto trading. Zhao is confident that with AI integration, DEXs may one day surpass centralized exchanges (CEXs) in trading volume and user adoption.

CZ Supports AI-Powered DEX Development

Speaking at the BNBDay event in Tokyo, Changpeng Zhao shared his thoughts on the future of decentralized finance (DeFi). He stated that if he were starting over, he would build a privacy-first perpetual DEX alongside a basic AI trading agent. According to Zhao, AI tools can simplify execution and improve the trading experience on decentralized platforms.

He said, “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.” Zhao’s comments come amid rising user interest in DEXs, driven by a demand for trustless systems and stronger asset control.

Hyperliquid, a decentralized perpetual exchange, recently surpassed major centralized exchanges like Coinbase and Bybit in daily trading volume. This performance reflects growing confidence in DEX models that offer greater transparency. Zhao said the trend is likely to continue, especially as technology matures and more users seek platforms that do not require custody or intermediaries.

Real-World Assets and Digital Asset Treasury Firms

Zhao also discussed the growing role of real-world assets (RWAs) and digital asset treasury (DAT) firms in the crypto market. He pointed to RWAs like securities, treasuries, and commodities as important areas for expansion. However, he acknowledged that RWAs face regulatory and liquidity challenges that must be addressed.

BNB Chain is reportedly investing in the development of RWA protocols, working with builders to create better infrastructure for real-world asset tokenization. Zhao said, “RWA is still in its early stages but has high potential.” These efforts aim to link traditional financial instruments with blockchain-based platforms, providing more use cases for crypto networks.

On the topic of digital asset treasury firms, Zhao noted that they help simplify access to crypto investments through public markets. He highlighted models like MicroStrategy’s Bitcoin holdings and CEA’s BNB strategy, calling them easier to manage. Zhao believes that with proper oversight, DAT models can provide long-term value and sustainability.

BNB Chain and Zhao’s Ongoing Role

Zhao described his current role within the BNB Chain ecosystem as mostly supportive. He said he does not take part in daily operations but continues to promote the chain’s development. “The BNB Chain is primarily community-driven. I don’t do much, mostly tweeting and encouraging people to BUILD. I’m more like a cheerleader,” he shared.

Zhao also stated that much of his personal wealth is tied to BNB, reflecting his continued commitment to the project. The BNB Chain team is reportedly working closely with developers to support new use cases, especially around RWAs and DeFi tools. Zhao’s public comments suggest he sees a long-term shift in how users interact with blockchain platforms.

As decentralized platforms grow, Zhao believes DEXs can meet the market’s need for privacy, flexibility, and user control. With AI trading agents and better infrastructure, he expects adoption to accelerate in the coming years.

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