By Key Points
- CZ launches “Pay to Reach” via ReachMe.io for direct DMs
- Users pay 0.2 BNB (~$125) for guaranteed replies
- Over 100 influencers join the platform to monetize access
- Raises questions on access vs. commercialization of messaging
Changpeng Zhao (CZ), the founder and former CEO of Binance, has launched a new messaging model that’s shaking up how communication works in the crypto world. Through a platform called ReachMe.io, CZ unveiled “Pay to Reach”, a feature allowing users to message him directly — but only if they pay 0.2 BNB (about $125).
The concept isn’t entirely new, but it’s making waves because of who is behind it. CZ is one of the most influential names in crypto. So, putting a price on access to him instantly gives weight to this feature. The aim? Cut down on spammy messages, promote meaningful conversations, and offer a premium connection channel.
Initially, the cost was 0.1 BNB, but even that didn’t reduce the flood of messages CZ received. He upped it to 0.2 BNB to hit what he calls the “sweet spot” — about 10 direct messages per day.
18 days ago, I published an article in Binance Square on a Pay to Reach idea. A few days later, a developer messaged me with a working prototype. After some discussions, adjustments, and a security review,
Yesterday, the product was live. I updated my…
— CZ 🔶 BNB (@cz_binance) March 27, 2025
This move also helps boost the utility of BNB, Binance’s native token, creating another use case in a growing list of applications for the coin. It’s an interesting blend of message filtering and token demand creation — and it’s catching on fast.
This isn’t the first time BNB has found itself at the center of attention. Recently, Binance Wallets’ bold move triggered a 24x surge in volume, highlighting the growing impact of strategic decisions tied to BNB across the ecosystem.
Messaging Monetized: The New Trend for Influencers
The Pay to Reach model isn’t limited to CZ. More than 100 Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) in the crypto space have already signed up on ReachMe.io, each setting their own price for DMs, ranging from 0.01 to 0.2 BNB.
It’s quickly becoming a new revenue stream for creators and influencers who are overwhelmed with fan messages, partnership requests, or spam. The model resembles “time-for-access” platforms like time.fun, where you pay for someone’s time or attention.
But there’s a twist: ReachMe.io doesn’t have a token. So, any token claiming to be affiliated is a scam, the platform warns.
is this not @timedotfun
— Grant blocmates (@Grantblocmates) March 27, 2025
This clarity is important because scams tend to pop up fast around hyped crypto projects. CZ’s high-profile involvement gives the platform instant visibility, which is a double-edged sword — it drives adoption, but also opens the door for bad actors trying to capitalize.
And while this model creates a new channel for monetized communication, it’s also sparked debate. Critics argue it’s another step toward the commercialization of what used to be free — simple online messaging.
Still, many see it as a necessary shift. With influencers getting bombarded daily, some kind of filter is needed. Using BNB as the “gatekeeper” not only filters out noise but could also lead to deeper, more serious conversations.
No sign up needed. All you need is a wallet. The fee is the gatekeeper.
— CZ 🔶 BNB (@cz_binance) March 27, 2025
CZ’s Influence Continues to Move Markets
Despite stepping down as CEO, CZ continues to influence both Binance and the broader crypto industry in powerful ways. Just a few weeks ago, his first decentralized exchange (DEX) trade involving the meme coin TST triggered a 50% price spike. This event mirrored the kind of volatility that comes from influential players making public moves — and the crypto market’s reaction was instant.
Such moments aren’t rare in the Binance universe. For example, CZ’s decisions have also fueled speculation around the Trump-Binance deal, adding more heat to political narratives around crypto. At the same time, Binance has been cracking down on irregularities following a controversial $38M market maker incident.
BNB Price Performance. Source: Techtoken
Meanwhile, innovation at Binance hasn’t slowed. The recent USD1 stablecoin launch on BNB Chain is stirring discussions about how it may reshape on-chain liquidity and BNB adoption.
But as CZ introduces tools like “Pay to Reach,” the line between communication, influence, and monetization gets thinner. His moves show that access is now a commodity, and as more influencers adopt this model, it’s likely we’ll see a shift in how crypto leaders interact with the public.
Still, these opportunities also come with risk — as seen in the recent $1M exploit involving a Hyperliquid Jelly trader. The crypto space remains volatile, and even as new monetization tools emerge, the need for trust and transparency stays just as critical.
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