Changpeng “CZ” Zhao, one of the co-founders of Binance, has made a significant contribution of over half a million dollars in cryptocurrency to support earthquake relief efforts in Thailand and Myanmar, highlighting the increasing relevance of blockchain for emergency charitable initiatives.
On March 3, Zhao donated 1,000 BNB tokens, valued at nearly $600,000, to assist the disaster relief funds for these affected regions, as indicated by blockchain records.
Zhao’s contribution of 1,000 BNB. Source: BscScan
“Sent 1000 BNB for the donation for Myanmar and Thailand,” Zhao shared in a post on April 3.
This cryptocurrency donation follows a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Thailand and Myanmar on March 28, resulting in extensive structural damage and severe flooding.
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As of the latest reports, at least 2,719 fatalities have been confirmed in Myanmar, alongside 18 in Thailand, with 76 individuals still missing, according to information published by news outlets.
Zhao’s donation of $600,000 comes just days after he initially pledged 500 BNB for the relief efforts, a commitment he later increased. Cryptocurrency donations are serving as a crucial support system in the region, particularly because of banking restrictions created by the damage to infrastructure.
Source: The Giving Block
In 2024, cryptocurrency donations surpassed $1 billion, driven by rising valuations of digital assets and a clearer regulatory environment. Approximately 16% of these donations were allocated to education, while 14% supported medical and health initiatives.
A crypto-based emergency relief campaign has been initiated to gather $500,000 for those impacted in Myanmar and Thailand.
Source: TheGivingBlock
The organization anticipates that crypto donations could reach $2.5 billion in 2025, spurred by the growth in crypto wealth and increased adoption owing to a more supportive political environment.
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The Growing Impact of Crypto Donations in Emergency Relief
Zhao’s contribution exemplifies the expanding role of cryptocurrency in humanitarian aid, according to blockchain expert Anndy Lian.
“Crypto donations present distinct benefits compared to traditional fiat donations, particularly in emergency situations,” Lian stated, adding:
“Speed is a critical factor—transactions on blockchain networks can be completed in minutes, avoiding the delays commonly seen with banks or intermediaries, which is vital when every second counts.”
“In areas devastated by disaster, such as Myanmar or Thailand, where traditional infrastructure may be in disarray, crypto can be directed straight to recipients through digital wallets, eliminating the need for SWIFT codes or wire transfers,” Lian elaborated.
Source: Anndy Lian
Lian also contributed 44 BNB tokens to support relief operations in Myanmar and Thailand, an act that received public commendation from Zhao.
Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has also made headlines for his philanthropic efforts, including a donation of over $180,000 in Ether to a biotech charity.
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