Binance Founders Use Simpson Aliases in Boardroom Sessions – A Behind-the-Scenes Look

Sometimes, beneath the corporate facade of tech giants lies a surprising touch of humanity. At Binance, the world’s largest crypto exchange, this is certainly the case. The company’s two founders, Changpeng Zhao (CZ) and Yi He, show up in internal meetings and chats simply as “Homer” and “Marge”—inspired by the iconic Simpsons characters. And yes, it’s exactly as peculiar as it sounds.
Why the Simpsons?
Yi He—who, alongside Richard Teng, now co-leads Binance as co-CEO—regularly steps into the role of “Marge.” Her co-founder and former CEO, CZ—now known internally as “Homer”—started this tradition years ago. The choice isn’t random: Homer embodies impulsive yet warm energy, while Marge is seen as disciplined and sensible. Doesn’t that mirror the dynamics of a global tech leadership team to a T?
According to insiders, it all began as a lighthearted inside joke to ease communication and add a layer of anonymity during sensitive discussions. Then again, there may be deeper intent—like creating a less personal layer during turbulent times (think regulatory crises or scandals). Whether that’s true or not, we may never know for sure. But one thing is clear: employees love the Simpson personas. They inject a bit of levity into the often high-pressure world of a crypto startup.
From Startup to Global Powerhouse—and Back to Its Roots?
In recent years, Binance has grown from a simple trading platform into a global giant operating in over 100 countries with billions in daily trading volume. Yet this success came at a cost. Regulatory battles, legal disputes, and internal upheavals have marked its recent past—especially the dramatic exit of CZ as CE



O in November 2023, triggered by accusations of inadequate anti-money laundering controls. The resolution? A $4.3 billion settlement with U.S. authorities. Since then, Yi He and Richard Teng have steered the company toward compliance and transparent collaboration.
Yi He: The Woman Behind the Reboot
Yi He is no stranger to the spotlight. The 1980s-born entrepreneur has been CZ’s right hand since Binance’s inception—and today, she’s instrumental in shaping the company’s future. Her mission? A fresh chapter: fewer controversies, more stability. And then there are those darn Simpson aliases… Perhaps it’s exactly this blend of seriousness and playful self-awareness that sets Binance apart from other tech titans.
In an industry often perceived as cold and calculated, such quirks offer a refreshing reminder: behind the algorithms and trading bots are real people with quirks and a sense of humor.
What’s Next?
The crypto world remains a volatile landscape—regulatory hurdles, rivalry with platforms like Coinbase or Kraken, and constant innovation. Binance faces the challenge of maintaining global dominance without getting ensnared in new scandals. Yi He and Richard Teng will play pivotal roles in this journey.
Will “Homer” and “Marge” ever fade away? Who knows. To the employees, these aliases are more than a running gag. They symbolize a culture that refuses to lose its sense of humor—even in stormy times. And in an industry driven by hype and speculation, that may ultimately make all the difference.
One thing is certain: the story of Binance and its founders remains as compelling as ever—whether in suits and ties or as yellow cartoon characters.