Binance Co‑founder and former CEO Changpeng “@CZ ” Zhao has recently updated his X (formerly Twitter) profile, adopting a caricature alongside the Chinese slang term 大表哥 (dà biǎogē)—literally, “big cousin.” This change is more than a playful image swap; it signals subtle messaging rooted in cultural context. 🔥
What’s Featured in the Profile Change
•Cartoon-style image depicting CZ smiling and pointing, with bold characters that read 大表哥 and the English caption “Big Cousin.”
•Beneath, the post clarifies:
“In Chinese slang, 大表哥 (dà biǎogé) means ‘big cousin,’ implying respect and closeness.”
📚 Origins & Cultural Context
•Literal meaning: 大 (dà) = big; 表哥 (biǎogē) = cousin on the mother’s side or father’s sister’s side, when that cousin is older .
•Internet slang usage:
Beyond familial reference, “大表哥” conveys warmth, trust, and approachable authority. It’s used online to affectionately address someone regarded as reliable or respected.
Why CZ Might Be Embracing This Persona ?
1.Cultivating Affinity & Trust
By choosing “big cousin,” CZ may aim to present himself as a familiar, accessible figure in the crypto ecosystem—someone users can trust and feel close to.
2.Tapping into Chinese Cultural Identity
As a Chinese-Canadian entrepreneur with global influence, this persona allows him to connect with Chinese-speaking communities through culturally resonant slang.
3.Repositioning Post-Regulatory Turmoil
Following Binance’s legal challenges and CZ’s resignation and sentencing, adopting a friendly, community-focused image can help soften his public image and reinforce trust.
CZ’s pivot to the “big cousin” theme merges linguistic charm with strategic image management. It allows him to connect on a cultural level, signal humility, and reforge relations within the diverse communities he engages—both in Chinese‑speaking circles and globally.
