5 Facts About Yi He: The Crypto Boss on Fortune's Most Powerful Women List

Yi He has made headlines as the first crypto-native executive to earn a spot on Fortune’s Most Powerful Women in Business list, marking her debut at #64 in 2026. Her recognition underscores not only her significant contributions to Binance but also highlights the growing influence of the cryptocurrency sector in mainstream business circles.

A Chronology of Yi He's Ascent

Yi He’s journey into the crypto world began in 2014, when she transitioned from a career in Chinese television to the expanding world of digital assets. She joined OKCoin (now OKX) as a marketing executive, where she played a important role in bringing on board a then-up-and-coming engineer, Changpeng Zhao (CZ). Together, they co-founded Binance during the 2017 ICO boom, quickly turning it into one of the leading cryptocurrency exchanges globally.

Born in a rural village in Sichuan, China in 1986, Yi grew up without many modern conveniences such as consistent electricity or running water. By the age of 16, she was promoting soft drinks, showing early signs of her entrepreneurial spirit. In her thirties, she taught herself English to expand Binance’s global reach, reflecting her relentless drive and adaptability.

Yi's formal appointment as co-CEO of Binance came in December 2025, following the company’s substantial $4.3 billion U.S. settlement related to regulatory issues. This important moment showcased her ability to navigate significant legal challenges while steering the company towards future growth.

The Impact of Yi He's Leadership

Yi He's recognition on the Fortune list signifies more than a personal achievement. it marks a notable shift in how the crypto industry is perceived on the global business stage. Her leadership style, characterized by a user-first philosophy, sets a precedent for customer engagement and inclusivity within the crypto space. By requiring all new hires to handle customer service, she ensures that the entire organization remains grounded in understanding user needs.

Her stake in Binance, estimated at 10%, alongside CZ’s majority ownership, positions her as one of the wealthiest women in the crypto industry. But more than wealth, it’s her strategic vision and operational acumen that have left a lasting impression. Under her guidance, Binance hasn't only survived intense regulatory scrutiny but has emerged more resilient, prepared to handle future challenges.

Reading between the lines, Yi's story is one of turning adversity into opportunity, a narrative that resonates deeply in the volatile world of cryptocurrencies. Her proactive engagement with users on platforms like X, Telegram, and WeChat further cements her reputation as a responsive and approachable leader.

What Lies Ahead for Yi He and Binance?

Yi He's ascent on Fortune's list could signal a new era where cryptocurrency leaders gain broader recognition in the traditional business world. Her leadership during Binance's compliance challenges suggests she’s likely to continue guiding the company through complex regulatory landscapes. From a compliance standpoint, her co-CEO role alongside Richard Teng, who focuses on regulatory affairs, is critical in steering Binance through its next phases.

What does this mean for the wider crypto industry? Yi He's recognition could inspire more women to enter the field, potentially leading to a more diversified leadership space. It also raises the question: Will more crypto executives follow in her footsteps, gaining recognition on such influential lists?

with Yi co-owning YZi Labs, an investment arm with a diverse portfolio beyond just crypto, her influence extends into other frontier sectors like biotech and AI. This diversification could mitigate risks and provide new growth opportunities for Binance and its stakeholders.

, Yi He's journey from a Sichuan village to the heights of global business power is the transformative potential of cryptocurrency. It’s not just about the digital coins. it’s about creating new paradigms of leadership and growth in a rapidly evolving industry.