In the fast-paced world of cryptocurrency, few voices carry as much weight as that of Changpeng Zhao, better known as CZ, the former CEO of Binance. Recently, CZ took to X (formerly Twitter) to share what he called an "unpopular opinion" on listing fees charged by exchanges. This sparked a lively discussion, especially relevant for meme token creators who often navigate the tricky waters of getting their projects listed on major platforms.

CZ's post was a response to a quote from user @YazanXBT, who called out Coinbase for not listing BNB, Binance's native token, while critiquing other exchanges' listing practices. CZ didn't hold back, diving straight into the economics and realities of crypto listings.

The Core Message: Build Strong Projects, Not Complaints

CZ's first point hits hard for any project team, including those behind meme coins. If you're out there complaining about listing fees or required airdrops (those free token giveaways to users), his advice is simple: don't pay them. "If your project is strong, exchanges will race to list your coin," he wrote. This flips the script—it's not about begging for a spot; it's about creating something so valuable that platforms come knocking.

For meme tokens, which often rely on community hype and viral marketing rather than deep tech, this is a wake-up call. Think about successful memes like Dogecoin or Shiba Inu—they didn't need to pay hefty fees because their organic growth made them irresistible to exchanges. If you're forcing your way in, CZ suggests asking yourself: who's really adding value here?

On Competitors and Business Models

Turning to exchange operators complaining about rivals' fees, CZ keeps it real: set your own fees to zero if you want, including trading fees. In a decentralized world, everyone gets to choose their model. "Focus on treating your users well. Don't focus on your competitors," he advises.

He highlights PancakeSwap, a popular decentralized exchange (DEX) on the BNB Chain, as an example. It has no listing fees and still boasts impressive trading volumes. For meme token enthusiasts, PancakeSwap is a go-to spot for launching and trading without the gatekeeping of centralized exchanges. It's proof that low-barrier platforms can thrive, especially for fun, community-driven projects.

Advice for Investors and Different Listing Strategies

If you're a holder of a token (a "bag holder" in crypto slang) upset about fees, CZ says direct your frustration at the project team, not the exchange. Or better yet, switch to a DEX where listings are often permissionless.

He breaks down exchange listing models into three categories:

• List everything: This approach includes tokens from every blockchain, but most end up being scams or failures. Only a handful succeed.

• Selective with fees: Smaller exchanges use listing fees as a revenue stream since they lack high trading volumes.

• Selective with protections: These require airdrops or security deposits to deter scams, ultimately protecting users.

Many exchanges mix these, varying between spot trading, futures, or wallet integrations. For meme coins, which can be high-risk and volatile, these models explain why some get listed quickly while others languish.

Community Reactions and Ties to Meme Culture

The post drew quick reactions. One reply from @GiggleFundBSC echoed CZ's sentiment: "Focus on being so strong, that you turn peoples heads," accompanied by a humorous meme tying into CZ's own Giggle Academy initiative, which aims to support education through crypto. This highlights how meme coins can blend fun with real-world impact, aligning with Meme Insider's mission to spotlight innovative tokens.

Other replies questioned why certain projects like HYPE aren't listed on Binance, showing the ongoing debate. But CZ's overarching message? Work on your project, not on criticizing others.

In the meme token space, where listings can make or break a project's visibility, CZ's words encourage builders to prioritize quality and user value over shortcuts. Whether you're launching the next viral cat coin or building on BNB Chain, focusing on strength over complaints could be the key to long-term success.

For more insights on meme tokens and blockchain trends, check out our knowledge base at Meme Insider. What's your take on listing fees—fair game or barrier to entry? Drop your thoughts in the comments!