The crypto industry continues to expand rapidly, driven by rising market capitalization and broader global adoption. Behind this growth are a handful of founders and executives controlling major exchanges, stablecoins, and key blockchain protocols.

Here are the five richest crypto figures in 2025, based on public wealth estimates, shareholdings, and on- and off-chain crypto assets.

1. Changpeng Zhao (Co-Founder, Binance)

Changpeng Zhao, or CZ, remains the richest person in crypto, with an estimated net worth of $62.9 billion. After stepping down as Binance CEO in late 2023 and resolving a major U.S. regulatory case, CZ still owns roughly 90% of Binance and holds significant BNB.

BNB remains central to DeFi and exchange activity, keeping CZ firmly at the top of the crypto wealth rankings.

2. Giancarlo Devasini – (CFO, Bitfinex)

Giancarlo Devasini is estimated to be worth $22.4 billion. The Bitfinex CFO is also a co-founder of Tether, issuer of USDT–the world’s most traded stablecoin.

Devasini’s 47% stake in Tether gives him major influence over global crypto liquidity. Despite a low public profile, he plays a crucial role in maintaining USDT’s stability and circulation.

3. Brian Armstrong – (CEO, Coinbase)

Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong is estimated to have a net worth between $9.6 billion and $12.8 billion, primarily from his 14–15% stake in the company.

Armstrong is seen as a bridge between traditional finance and Web3. Coinbase remains a key entry point for both retail and institutional crypto investors in the U.S., cementing his influence in the industry.

4. Michael Saylor (Executive Chairman, Strategy)

Michael Saylor has an estimated net worth of $10.1 billion. A high-profile corporate Bitcoin advocate, Saylor personally holds around 17,700 BTC.

Strategy, the company he chairs, controls over 671,268 BTC, making it the world’s largest corporate Bitcoin holder. Rising BTC prices and surging Strategy stock have restored Saylor to the upper ranks of global crypto elite.

5. Chris Larsen (Co-Founder, Ripple Labs)

Chris Larsen is estimated to be worth $7–8 billion. A Ripple co-founder, he still owns roughly 2.6 billion XRP and a significant stake in Ripple Labs.

XRP’s price recovery and Ripple’s push into real-world asset tokenization have boosted Larsen’s standing. Though he stepped down as CEO in 2016, he remains influential in regulatory and cross-border payment matters.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not financial advice. Cryptocurrency investments are risky, and readers should do their own research before making decisions.