[Coinberry ](https://www.coinberry.com/)is considered one of the top crypto exchanges in Canada. It launched in 2017 and is among the first to receive authorisation from FINTRAC, the financial watchdog of Canada. 

In April 2022, the firm was acquired by [WonderFi Technologies](https://www.wonder.fi/), which also owns the Bitbuy crypto trading platform. 

The exchange offers a user-friendly and interactive experience for buying and selling digital assets. Coinberry is currently not charging deposit fees and claims to be the best Canadian crypto exchange. In this article, we'll explore why this platform is a viable choice for crypto investors in Canada. 

## Review of Coinberry crypto exchange features 

### 1. Deposit and withdrawal fees 

![screenshot of coinberry exchange fees](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/Screenshot_2023_05_10_at_16_03_27_c647a3e27a.png)

Coinberry is ideal for deposit fees as it does not charge deposits in Canadian dollars (CAD). You can start with this crypto trading site with a minimal deposit of 50 CAD. The exchange charges 1.5% on withdrawals, which usually depends on network congestion. 

Furthermore, trading cryptocurrencies may incur a percentage of the trading amount. The platform introduces a[ tiered fee structure](https://www.coinberry.com/fees) that defines trade makers’ and takers’ fees according to the amount they traded in the last 90 days. The fee ranges from 0% to 2% for trade makers, whereas for takers, it ranges between 0.10% to 2%. 

### User interface 

The cryptocurrency exchange also delivers convenience and ease of use to its customers. It has an easy-to-navigate platform that you can quickly get familiar with. Furthermore, you can use the browser version or the mobile app, both of which offer an interface where you can buy crypto, monitor their price, and manage your portfolio. 

### Deposit methods 

The exchange mainly has two deposit options: e-transfers or wire transfers. However, the platform only works for Canadians, so it only supports CAD and not other fiat currencies. 

If you transfer money through Interac e-transfer, the minimum will be 50 CAD, and you can deposit up to 10K daily. This type of transfer is much faster than wire transfers which can take up to five business days. 

Currently, Coinberry does not have an option for wallet integration. Therefore, if you want to sell your crypto, you must transfer the amount to the Coinberry address from your external wallet. 

### Choice of cryptocurrencies 

![image of coinberry's choice og cryptocurrencies with purple border](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/Screenshot_2023_05_10_at_16_03_35_63e99ae33a.png)

As of writing, the exchange allows you to buy or sell around 25 cryptocurrencies. Although the supported coins are far fewer than some of the [top-rated exchanges](/news/article/best-exchanges-for-crypto-uk), it gives you most of the popular options like [BTC](/coins/btc), [ETH](/coins/eth), ADA, [MATIC](/coins/matic), [DOGE](/coins/doge), [LTC](/coins/ltc), and others. If you have a small portfolio consisting of these coins, you can manage it through the exchange.   

### Customer support 

To assist its customers in daily trades, the exchange has an FAQ section that answers customers' questions about managing the account, troubleshooting, and pricing guidance. Additionally, it has a blog where investors, especially beginners, can find valuable information for trading. 

However, reviews for customer support for the platform are mixed on the internet. Many have complained about the non-availability of 24/7 customer service. 

## Is Coinberry safe? 

Coinberry is a well-authorised cryptocurrency exchange that has secured registration from [FINTRAC](https://fintrac-canafe.canada.ca/intro-eng), [OSC](https://www.osc.ca/en), and [PIPEDA](https://www.priv.gc.ca/en/privacy-topics/privacy-laws-in-canada/the-personal-information-protection-and-electronic-documents-act-pipeda/), ensuring its security to customers. Additionally, the platform follows proper [anti-money laundering laws](/news/article/crypto-aml) and knows-your-customer KYCs, making it a secure platform. 

## Coinberry: A reliable crypto trading platform for Canadian investors 

Coinberry is a well-established and reliable cryptocurrency exchange in Canada. Its intuitive and easy-to-use platform, and the support of Canadian financial authorities, make it an ideal choice for Canadian investors who are new to crypto or have a portfolio consisting of popular tokens only.  

While Coinberry’s limited investment options and higher trading fees may not be ideal for some investors, it remains a trustworthy option for those prioritising security and convenience in their crypto transactions. 

To sum up, Coinberry is a platform worth considering for any Canadian looking to invest in digital assets. 

coinberry logo over image of men trading cyptocurrency

Canadian crypto exchange Coinberry review 2023

Founded in 2013 in Beijing by ex-Oracle engineer Leon L, Huobi Global was made to provide [a cryptocurrency platform for the people of mainland China](/news/article/huobi-exchange-who-owns-it) and more. 

The platform skyrocketed after its launch and became one of China's top 3 cryptocurrency platforms, providing liquidity to those who wish to trade. 

Huobi's ecosystem includes spot trading, derivatives trading, staking, crypto loans, crypto yield products, and more, with a strong prevalence in the Asian market. 

## What is Huobi Global?  

In trade volume, Huobi is one of the largest cryptocurrency exchange platforms. In fact, it can be compared to giants like OKX and Bit-Z. 

Huobi intended to launch and operate in only Chinese markets, but quickly expanded to more than 130 countries, dominating the Asian market. 

Huobi is also one of the oldest cryptocurrency platforms, with teams worldwide in countries like Japan, South Korea, the UK, Australia, Canada, Brazil, and Hong Kong. 

In 2018, Huobi launched its own token, Huobi Token (HT), which is listed as one of the top 100 cryptocurrencies today by Coin Market Cap. 

## How does Huobi work?  

The functionality of [Huobi Global](https://www.huobi.com/en-us/) is quite similar to that of other cryptocurrency platforms. 

Users can buy and sell cryptocurrencies while the exchange makes a profit by charging a transaction fee. However, recently, the platform has started focusing on stablecoins backed by the US dollar. 

These coins are pegged at the value of the US dollar, making them less susceptible to market volatility. Users can deposit any of the four stablecoins, [Paxos Standard,](/news/article/circle-paxos-crypto-approval-singapore) True USD, US Dollar Coin, and Gemini dollars, on the exchange, which are then automatically transferred to Huobi's HUSD. Later, while withdrawing the currency, users can pick from any of the four available stablecoins in a 1:1 ratio. 

For instance, a user can deposit one Gemini dollar, which is then automatically converted to one HUSD. While withdrawing, they can opt for one USD Coin. According to Huobi, the HUSD eliminates the need for users to choose between stablecoins and saves on conversion costs. 

## Huobi token  

Issued in 2018 by Huobi Global, the Huobi Token has a total supply of 500 million, of which 300 million were given away as a perk to users who bought a "points card" on Huobi Pro. 

The remaining tokens were distributed for user rewards, platform operation, and team incentives. HT was created to boost loyalty after a Chinese crackdown on crypto trading decreased trade volumes. HT is not mined and can be traded on any of Huobi's exchanges. 

Huobi Token is the native cryptocurrency of the Huobi exchange, designed to empower the Huobi ecosystem. A chief benefit is that it allows users to reduce trading fees on the platform. When exchanging currencies on the Huobi exchange, a 0.2% fee is charged. However, if the currency exchanged is Huobi Token, a lower fee is charged, which is attractive to high-volume traders. 

Huobi also rewards its Huobi Token holders through mining guides and occasional giveaways. Furthermore, holders of Huobi Token can exercise voting rights in deciding which token to add next to the exchange, giving them more control over the platform's development. 

Unlike other cryptocurrencies, Huobi Tokens are not mined but can be bought and sold on Huobi exchanges. 

## The future of Huobi Global  

Huobi is expanding its services beyond cryptocurrency exchange by launching futures trading through its own derivative market, creating a public blockchain called Huobi Chain, and announcing expansion plans in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia regions. 

The exchange hopes to attract more sophisticated investors and create the world's most technologically advanced blockchain. The advisory board for Huobi Chain includes Randi Zuckerberg. 

Huobi has demonstrated its expertise in cryptocurrency over the past decade, despite regulatory pressures causing significant challenges. The platform has adapted and developed a comprehensive user experience, appealing to investors seeking an alternative to Binance. 

With its own blockchain and native currency, Huobi's future looks promising for providing a secure and innovative industry experience. 

HUobi Global logo on blue image of person trading on an ipad

All you need to know about Huobi Global 

In the crypto industry, finding a platform that offers everything you need in one place can be difficult. That's where Bit2Me comes in. 

With a range of services, including buying and selling [cryptocurrencies](/news/article/2021-cryptocurrency-review), online wallets, and more, Bit2Me is an all-in-one platform for crypto enthusiasts. In this article, we'll look closer at the platform and all it offers. 

## Buying and selling cryptocurrencies 

Among the most popular services offered by [Bit2Me](https://bit2me.com/) is buying and selling cryptocurrencies. With a wide range of payment methods and user-friendly interface, it's easy to buy or sell your favourite cryptocurrencies on the platform. Supported cryptocurrencies include[ Bitcoin,](/news/article/marathon-digital-sustainable-mining) Ethereum, Litecoin, and many more. 

In addition to buying and selling cryptocurrencies, the platform offers a unique service called "Instant Exchange". With Instant Exchange, you can exchange one cryptocurrency for another in just a few clicks. This is a good feature for those who want to quickly and easily diversify their cryptocurrency holdings. 

## Online wallets 

Another great feature of Bit2Me is its online wallets. With its online wallets, you can securely store your cryptocurrencies and easily manage your holdings. The online wallets are user-friendly and offer advanced security features to keep your cryptocurrencies safe. 

The platform also offers a unique service called "[Tikebit](https://tikebit.com/)". With Tikebit, you can buy cryptocurrencies in physical stores using cash. This is a useful option for those who prefer to use cash instead of online payment methods. 

## Bit2Me Pay 

If you're a business owner looking to expand your payment options, [Bit2Me Pay](https://support.bit2me.com/en/support/solutions/folders/35000223915) is the perfect solution. With the feature, you can easily accept cryptocurrency payments online, making it easier for your customers to buy from you. The integration process is simple. 

Also, with the platform's advanced security features, you can rest assured that your transactions are secure. 

## Bit2Me Academy 

Cryptocurrency and blockchain technology can be complex and hard to understand, especially for those new to the space. That's where [Bit2Me Academy](https://academy.bit2me.com/en/) comes in. With a wide range of courses, tutorials, and articles, the Academy is the perfect resource for anyone looking to learn more about cryptocurrency. 

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, Bit2Me Academy has something for everyone. Best of all, the educational resources are completely free, so you can learn at your own pace without breaking the bank. 

This is a good resource, allowing users to be properly informed about the crypto industry. And, knowing that they got education from the platform, users would want to use it as their premier crypto-based application too. 

## Customer support 

In addition to educational resources, Bit2Me offers customer support in multiple languages. Whether you have a question about buying or selling cryptocurrencies or need help with your online wallet, the customer support team is there to help. 

This allows users to feel valued and that the service caters to their needs and requirements. 

## Security 

An important aspect of any cryptocurrency platform is security. Bit2Me takes security seriously and offers advanced security features to keep your cryptocurrencies safe. These security features include two-factor authentication, email and SMS notifications, and multi-signature wallets. 

The platform is also fully compliant with EU regulations, which means you can trust that your personal and financial information is being handled with the utmost care. 

## Conclusion 

Overall, Bit2Me is a comprehensive platform that offers everything you need to buy, sell, and store your cryptocurrencies. 

With user-friendly interfaces, advanced security features, and excellent customer support, Bit2Me is the perfect platform for beginners and experienced cryptocurrency users. 

Moreover, you can use the platform to get free education about [crypto-related topics](/news/article/bybit-trading-games-review). 

bit2me app on blue background image of bitcoins

Bit2Me: The all-in-one platform for your cryptocurrency needs 

While it's not entirely watertight, [staking crypto](/news/article/what-is-staking-crypto) can be a great way to use idle cryptocurrencies and a good source of passive income. That's because there are cryptocurrencies that offer high-interest rates for staking. If you're new to the cryptocurrency world and want to understand how crypto staking works, our Fantom crypto staking guide explains everything you need to know. 

## What is Fantom crypto (FTM)? 

According to its website, Fantom is “a high-performance, scalable, and secure smart-contract platform” encompassing unique components. Built on the Fantom Opera Blockchain, the open-source Directed Acrylic Graph (DAG) network is compatible with the EVM (Ethereum Virtual Machine). It can run smart contracts besides creating new contracts that interact with Ethereum-based contracts.  

The Fantom utility token (FTM) is used for executing financial transactions, rewarding validators, paying network fees, and securing governance and is available in leading cryptocurrency exchanges. FTM transactions are authenticated by a leaderless Proof of Stake system dubbed Lachesis that utilizes a custom asynchronous byzantine fault-tolerant consensus mechanism (ABFT). Using ABFT for validation facilitates faster and more affordable transactions compared to those using Proof of Stake (PoS) or Proof of Work (PoW) mechanisms. It finalizes transactions in a matter of seconds.  

## How does Fantom (FTM) work? 

While some cryptocurrencies exist predominantly as investments, utility tokens for digital economies, or a replacement for fiat currencies, Fantom crypto (FTM) deviates slightly and sees itself as a decentralized app. Fantom focuses on DApps – the combination of tools and technologies supporting the collection of smart contracts into apps. The platform is designed to run smart contracts cheaply and affordably so DApps can reach their full potential.   

The Fantom blockchain's high speed can be attributed to DAG, where a network's transaction history is displayed as a "Hashgraph," just like the technology that powers Hedera Hashgraph. 

Additionally, the platform uses Lachesis, a leaderless consensus mechanism that can run without a hitch, even if a third of transaction data is falsified. As a result, the platform can validate transactions independently without necessarily working through a queue of transactions, often in less than two seconds. 

[Fantom](/news/article/fantom-gbp) is compatible with the EVM (Ethereum virtual machine), which makes it possible to anchor decentralized applications built on Ethereum to Fantom without much ado. As a result, FTM is available as a BEP-20 token and an ERC-20 token and therefore conforms to Binance Smart Chain (BSC) and Ethereum token standards. 

## Fantom crypto DeFi 


The Fantom development team has displayed its proof of flexibility by creating a token that features Decentralized Finance (DeFi) capabilities. The platform’s Opera Mainnet supports EVM-compatible smart contracts, allowing users to execute smart contracts on the network and making DeFi ideal on Fantom. The dashboard features an all-in-one DeFi suite for all users. Since it’s EVM compatible, users can mint, trade, lend and borrow cryptocurrencies directly from their digital wallets. Moreover, these functionalities are available almost instantly and at near-zero fees, meaning the DeFi function is open to all and sundry.    

When it comes to DeFi applications, Fantom crypto currently supports the following: 

Liquid staking: All FTM delegations are liquid within the platform’s ecosystem, meaning you can utilize your staked FTM tokens as collateral for DeFi applications. 

fMint: Users can mind numerous synthetic digital assets, including cryptocurrencies, commodities, and fiat currencies, on Fantom.  

fLend: You can borrow and lend cryptocurrencies to trade and earn passive income while holding your FTM tokens. 

fTrade: The Trade Fantom feature allows users to trade Fantom-based cryptos through their wallets, making it a fully decentralized and non-custodial Automated Market Maker (AMM) exchange.  

As a matter of fact, users can use Fantom crypto (FTM) tokens as collateral to mint fUSD, which they can use to trade and swap fiat currencies and synthetic tokens, which is made possible via the platform’s progressive web app Fantom fWallet that facilitates storing, sending, receiving and staking FTM tokens. 

## What is Fantom staking? 

Fantom staking is a process that enables users to participate in securing the Fantom ecosystem by delegating their idle FTM tokens to validators or running validator nodes. 

Previously, FTM stakers had to lock their tokens for long or short periods to earn rewards. However, investors voted to introduce a new flexible staking model that guarantees maximum profitability. Stakers can now decide whether or not to lock their tokens, and the returns depend on the maximum lock-up period they choose. 

Fantom uses Lachesis, an improved PoS consensus mechanism specifically adapted to the network and designed to facilitate high-speed transactions. That's all made possible because the Lachesis protocol is designed to validate transactions independently without consensus from the rest of the blockchain. 

This differs slightly from the traditional PoS mechanism, where validators determine the validity of transactions within the network. Since the Fantom Opera system is leaderless, stakers can still delegate their Fantom crypto tokens to trusted ones, but validators do not determine the validity of blocks.  

## How to stake Fantom (FTM) 

Staking Fantom is an affordable, low-barrier investment open to anyone with as little as 1FTM token. Moreover, specialized equipment or expertise is only required if you intend to run a validator node. 

Validators staking FTM can earn staking rewards plus a 14% fee from delegators' rewards. The only catch is the requirement to have at least 500,000 FTM tokens before you can run a validator node. This is designed to prevent [Sybil attacks](https://hacken.io/insights/sybil-attacks/#:~:text=A%20Sybil%20Attack%20is%20a%20form%20of%20online%20security%20violation,a%20blockchain%20for%20malicious%20reasons.) on the platform’s consensus mechanism.   

The Fantom crypto architecture is out-and-out on the platform's Opera Core layer that retains consensus across the nodes running on the Lachesis protocol. All transactions made on the network by independent nodes are processed and saved on each node. 

The DAG mechanism confirms and validates transactions and allows nodes to independently and asynchronously process transactions. 

Here is the step-by-step guide on staking Fantom (FTM): 

### Step#1: Visit the Fantom Staking Page.  

Go to https://fantom.foundation/ftm-staking/ and click on "Stake your FTM". You only need at least 1 FTM token in your digital wallet. 

### Step#2. Connect, Create, or Restore Your Wallet. 

Once you click "Stake your FTM", you'll be provided three options: connect your wallet, create a wallet, and restore your wallet. The "Connect Wallet" option lets you connect your regular wallet, allowing you to open or connect a wallet from your PC or mobile device. 

If you don't already have a wallet, click "Create Wallet" to create one and enter a password. After that, you'll be given your mnemonic phrase and private key. Once you enter the phrase correctly, you'll have access to your newly created wallet. 

The third option, “Restore Wallet,” requires entering your private key or mnemonic phrase, uploading your keystone file, and entering your account password to revive an old wallet. 

### Step#3. Stake Your Desired Amount of FTM. 

Once you can access your wallet, you can transfer the desired amount of FTM tokens you wish to stake to a crypto exchange or your Fantom Opera wallet address. Click on the "Staking" menu; choose a validator to a delegation and the amount you want to stake and set up your desired lock-up period. There's also a stake-as-you-go option with no lock-up period. Moreover, the Fantom staking page is designed to estimate the rewards you can expect – the calculations are done by considering the staked amount, the lock-up period, and the current APR. 

## Why is Fantom Staking Popular? 

The platform's decentralized nature is one of the reasons. Fantom crypto staking is popular among investors, besides the DeFi feature that enables users to borrow, lend, and trade leading cryptocurrencies. 

FTM is also a decentralized governance tool allowing investors to be key decision-makers. Moreover, people enjoy staking Fantom because it employs blockchain technology's three main aspects: scalability, security, and decentralization. 

## Is Fantom staking a good idea?  

Staking Fantom crypto can be a great way to receive passive income and profit from your FTM tokens as you contribute to the success of the blockchain economy. It's also relatively safe to stake FTM since there's no way a validator node can access your staked coins. You only need carefully safeguard your mnemonic phrase or private key. 

Remember that just like all other proof-of-stake blockchains, there’s always a risk of losing a fraction of your stake if the validator misbehaves or during the bear market. Remember, your funds become illiquid when you stake and lock up your FTM tokens. 

phantoms flying around fantom logo with blue filter

Fantom crypto staking: Fast, flexible investment 

StormGain is an [all-in-one crypto trading platform](/news/article/how-does-crypto-trading-work) comprising a centralised exchange (CEX) and a decentralised exchange (DEX). 

The platform offers several products, including a CEX, decentralised cryptocurrency trading, futures trading with up to 500x leverage, a Bitcoin (BTC) cloud miner, and exclusive trading signals. 

## What is StormGain? 

The StormGain cryptocurrency[ trading platform](/news/article/hotbit-is-it-secure) makes buying, trading, and holding popular, capitalised cryptocurrencies from a single destination easy. 

For example, once you register at StormGain, you can buy crypto with your credit card, which can be stored in StormGain's in-built, multi-currency wallet. The registration procedure is relatively straightforward. 

You can then exchange your purchased cryptocurrency for another crypto asset to your liking, enjoy decentralised crypto trading with up to 500x leverage and exclusive trading signals, and take advantage of Bitcoin cloud mining (a free Bitcoin faucet), among other possibilities. 

You can use the platform on your computer device or download the iOS or Android application on your mobile phone. 

## StormGain registration process 

To register at the crypto trading platform, click the Get Started option at the top of your screen. 

![blue screenshot of stormgain website](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/Screenshot_2023_05_04_at_14_27_12_62f5918ea3.png)

Once you click on this option, the registration pop-up will appear on your screen. You must enter a valid email address, input your phone number (with the country code), and create a password. 

![stormgain welcome screen website ui](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/Screenshot_2023_05_04_at_14_27_49_aee3c72f04.png)


The password should have more than eight characters, a minimum of one number, and a combination of uppercase and lowercase characters. Review the Stormgain customer agreement and policies and tick the box. At this stage, we want to clarify that StormGain is NOT A REGULATED CRYPTOCURRENCY EXCHANGE. 

This makes the platform illegal in the US – that is why the platform requests you to confirm that you are not a citizen of the US. It is also worth noting that StormGain products are not intended for use in countries identified by the FATF as non-cooperative or high-risk jurisdictions, as well as the European Union. 

If you belong to any of these regions, DO NOT register on the platform. If you satisfy all required registration criteria, click the Create an Account option to continue. If you are Islamic, tick the Islamic account box for special benefits (more on this later)! 

To complete registration, verify your email address and phone number. Click on the Continue option to proceed. 

![almost done sign up screen stormgain](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/Screenshot_2023_05_04_at_14_27_55_d9c7219791.png)

The platform will send an SMS to the phone number you provided them. At this stage, you can also change your phone number. Click on the Confirm option to continue. 

Complete the simple puzzle that appears on your screen and enter the confirmation/security code they sent you via SMS. 

![Screenshot 2023-05-04 at 14.28.08.png](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/Screenshot_2023_05_04_at_14_28_08_8bac909c13.png)

Click on the Apply option, verify your email address by clicking on the verification link they sent you via email, and all is done. You can now enjoy the benefits of StormGain 

## StormGain products explored 

StormGain offers numerous products which are part of a complete trading experience. Here are the best products that you MUST explore! 

### Crypto exchange 

Once you have purchased cryptocurrency to your liking via a credit card, you can use the platform's in-built, multi-currency crypto wallet to manage, secure, and exchange your purchased funds. 

The wallet is available 24/7, free of charge, and enables you to exchange assets from the confines of your wallet with built-in tools. You can also exchange your crypto assets for Gold (XAU) and Silver (XAG) tokens. 

![stormgain website ui screenshot of cryptocurrency exchange rates](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/Screenshot_2023_05_04_at_14_28_15_d585651f6a.png)

To exchange cryptocurrencies, click on the exchange pair to your liking. At the time of writing, 18 exchange pairs are on offer. These include popular cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Litecoin (LTC), Tether (USDT), and Ripple (XRP). 

StormGain does NOT charge a commission for simple crypto exchange. Here is an in-depth understanding of the platform's [fees and limits](https://stormgain.com/fees-and-limits). The platform only charges a 10% profit share from profitable trades (right, 'only'!). 

## Decentralised crypto trading with leverage and exclusive signals 

You heard that right, StormGain offers decentralised crypto trading with up to 500x leverage and exclusive trading signals. Visit the [DEX](https://dex.stormgain.com/) to access available trading pairs. The 50 most popular cryptocurrencies at the time of writing are on offer to trade in. 

![BTCUSDT chart from stormgain website ui](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/Screenshot_2023_05_04_at_14_28_22_cb1dba6d37.png)

Leverage of up to 500x for BTC is the highest on the market at the time of writing. You can trade with as little as 10 USDT, reap the benefits of trading signals curated by StormGain experts, analyse charts to understand the current outlook of the market, and utilise[ professional technical analysis tools](/news/article/tradingview-uk-101). 

As you can see above, simply connect your wallet, enter the amount of the crypto asset you want to trade, select the amount of leverage you are comfortable with, and proceed with your trade. Be diligent with your trades at all times, as leverage can make or break a trader. 

## Free Bitcoin cloud miner 

One of the more interesting StormGain products is its free Bitcoin cloud miner. Once you register at the trading platform, visit this [page and click](https://stormgain.com/bonuses/bitcoin-mining) on the Activate option to receive your first free BTC mining reward after four hours. This is a part of the StormGain loyalty programme. 

Bitcoin cloud mining at StormGain is quick and risk-free and does not require you to own mining equipment. There is no battery or CPU drainage either. Depending on your loyalty level (achieved by trading or exchanging a certain volume of crypto assets periodically), your mining speed may increase, leading to greater rewards. 

For example, at the Standard loyalty level, you will receive approximately 8 USDT monthly, requiring 0 USDT trading volume, at a mining speed of 0.5x. If you are a VIP3 member, you will receive a whopping 8,615 USDT monthly (approximately), requiring a 75M USDT trading volume (!!!), at a mining speed of 530x. 

StormGain advertises the same product as a free Bitcoin faucet as well. Do not get confused. 

## Islamic account 

If you are practising Islam, you can [explore crypto trading](/news/article/altcoin-trading-tips) at StormGain with a special Islamic account. Ensure you tick the correct box during registration (refer to the registration section above). Alternatively, you can click on [this promo ](https://promo.stormgain.com/lp/en-en/isl/?lpid0678e980=)link and register accordingly! 

This feature is meant for individuals who cannot pay or receive swaps due to religious beliefs. The trading platform makes it clear that while this feature is intended for Islamic traders, it does not serve as permission to trade. Only accept this offer if your religious beliefs allow for it. 

- The perks of opening an Islamic account include: 

- Zero interest and rollover commissions. 

- No fees for holding a position for a longer duration (no time limit). 

Other advertised perks include the following: 

- Seamlessly manage funds with their powerful and intuitive platform. 

- Easily buy crypto with a credit card and withdraw in fiat currency. 

- Trade with up to 500x leverage without interest. 

- Manage and securely hold crypto with an in-built, multi-currency wallet that offers several benefits. 

Overall, while StormGain offers several fascinating products and features, it is still unregulated, so do your own research (DYOR) and register ONLY if you are comfortable with this fact. 

stormgain logo on blue backgrong image of men trading

StormGain: All-In-One Crypto Trading Platform

Wondering what Ankr is? Ankr has risen among the ranks to become one of the most sought-after protocols due to its extensive features, which are highly valuable in developing the Web3 ecosystem. 

Forecast to be worth around $45 billion by 2030, at a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of 41.50%, the crypto firm is expected to join blockchain-powered companies such as Polkadot, Helium Systems Inc., Ocean Protocol Foundation Limited, Decentraland, Binance, and Alchemy Insights Incorporated in ensuring that the prediction by [Vantage Market Research](https://www.vantagemarketresearch.com/industry-report/web-30-blockchain-market-1694#:~:text=The%20Global%20Web%203.0%20Blockchain,41.50%25%20over%20the%20forecast%20period.) comes to fruition at the said period.  

With a boom in the blockchain economy on the horizon, you will be coming across the protocol more and more. You may find yourself asking, 'What is Ankr?' 

As a result, this article takes an in-depth look into the project, the kind of partners that have chosen to ally with them, its native asset, its price performance so far in 2023, and the type of cryptocurrency exchanges that support the digital currency as a tradable asset. 

By the end, we hope you have an answer to the question, 'What is Ankr?'. 

## What is Ankr?  

It was created by the University of California, Berkeley, graduates Ryan Fang and Chandler Song in 2017. 

As a blockchain-based cross-chain infrastructure protocol that is smart contracts-compatible, it allows the development of decentralized applications (DApps) and staking services. It also houses several protocols connected to expanding the decentralized finance (DeFi) sector. 

Having recognized the centralization of power and the extensive reliance on intermediaries in many internet sectors, Ankr gives control and ownership of data to network participants and users. 

This is why it joined an industry with thousands of applications but decided to build a new internet that relies on the possibilities of distributed ledger technology (DLT).  

Many projects, such as Internet Computer, have disclosed that they want to decentralize everything on the internet, but have little to show for the past two years since launch. 

Ankr supports staking nodes, Web3, and, more importantly, achieves decentralization by employing DLT-powered computing power to gather data resources. 

These resources are then deployed to developers and stakers at low-cost data centres. Through this process, stakers can stake their balances while developers can create and deploy DApps. 

## What is ANKR, the cryptocurrency behind the project?  

Like all projects in the data technology section of the blockchain-powered economy, Ankr is supported by a cryptocurrency. It goes by the ticker symbol ANKR. 

It has a total and maximum of 10 billion tokens. Out of this, 97% (represented by 9.7 billion crypto assets) are in circulation, leaving just 3% to be injected into the market for scarcity to take hold of this crypto asset powering one of the most patronized networks in the space today. 

For crypto traders and investors interested in the numbers, ANKR is up more than 140% this year, rose by more than 120% in the first quarter of 2023, and reached a yearly [peak price](https://coinmarketcap.com/currencies/ankr/) of $0.05474 in February (which is still four times below its all-time high price of $0.2252 attained on 28 March 2021).  

The virtual coin has value despite not being a currency backed by a centralized financial institution. This is because it has all the attributes of what constitutes currency money, like utility, transferability, durability, scarcity, non-counterfeitability, and, most important of all, divisibility. 

Due to its potential in a market where more than 2,000 cryptocurrencies compete for traders and investors, more than 40 centralized and decentralized exchanges support the token for trading. 

Some platforms where[ ANKR](https://coinranking.com/coin/drWC87t2Vozh+ankr-ankr/exchanges) can be accessed include, but are not limited to, Binance, Huobi Global, Coinbase Pro, Kraken, BitMart, Crypto.com, and Uniswap (Vault 1, 2, and 3). 

## Mainstream crypto companies among its partners 

As of 16:00 UTC on 18 April, ANKR completes more than eight billion application programming interface (API) requests daily, from over 40,000 unique developers across 30-plus jurisdictions. Additionally, it supports over 38 networks in the blockchain economy. This is the primary reason why it is trusted by the following firms. 

Polygon uses Ankr’s infrastructure to boost its ecosystem. As an integral part of Web3 development, Polygon plays a vital role in crypto through its native asset [MATIC](/news/article/polygon-announce-hard-fork) and the digital collectibles sector, where CryptoSlam ranks it among the biggest blockchains by all-time NFT sales volume. Before [Disney shut down](https://www.wsj.com/articles/disney-eliminates-its-metaverse-division-as-part-of-companys-layoffs-plan-94b03650) its Metaverse division in March, Polygon responded negatively through its digital currency MATIC because it was chosen by the company along with five other firms to be a part of its[ accelerator program](https://www.coindesk.com/business/2022/07/13/polygon-joins-disneys-accelerator-program-to-develop-ar-nft-and-ai-experiences/), aimed at the development of artificial intelligence (AI), NFT, and augmented reality (AR) experiences. 

Gaining the support of Polygon certifies Ankr as one of the most credible protocols in a space where cybercriminals design projects to dupe people out of hard-earned money.  

[Binance](/news/article/binance-nft-marketplace-explained), the largest cryptocurrency exchange, has its hand in all segments of the crypto economy. Binance Chain is actively involved in DeFi and NFTs, and this alliance helps Chanpeng Zhao's innovation remain competitive in a saturated market. 

Certik is a smart contract, blockchain, and Web3 security firm. This company provides a tool that ranks projects based on risks related primarily to security. Due to rug pulls, pump-and-dump schemes, and other ways projects such as SafeMoon duped traders, many people analyze the health of projects by Certik aside from total value locked (TVL) and other crypto metrics. Ankr's Overall [Security Score](https://skynet.certik.com/projects/ankr) is 75.80, in the top 30%. This was arrived at after the security firm gave the project a code security score of 91.45, operational resilience score of 78.00, governance strength score of 92.37, and market stability and community trust scores of 96.54 and 98.00, respectively. 

The above statistics show a project that ticks all the right boxes for all stakeholders (developers, liquidity providers, and traders) searching for a go-to chain to meet their blockchain-related needs. 

[Avalanche](https://www.avax.network/) is also among the projects that trust Ankr. With [Avalanche,](/news/article/avalanche-crypto-metamask) governments, enterprises, and institutions can build many products under assets issuance and trading, document tracking, digital identity, debt financing, and [Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC)](/news/article/nigeria-cbdc-adoption-soars). Aside from these, developers can build DApps, and NFT lovers can mint their own digital art using its blockchain. Tapping into Ryan Fang and Chandler Song’s innovation shows the extent to which Ava Labs believe in the Ankr project.  

Other projects that trust this blockchain-based cross-chain infrastructure protocol include Optimism, Aave, SpiritSwap, 1inch, Project Galaxy, Zapper, and SushiSwap.  

## Does ANKR have a future? 

Yes, ANKR has a future. The project has a fully diluted market capitalization of around $372 million and continues to see above-average daily trading volume for a low-cap digital asset (which has less than $2 billion in market value). 

Since the year's opening day, the token has seen a daily trading volume of around $9 million. With blockchain technology playing an instrumental role in the transition from Web2 to Web3 and Ankr's position as a cross-chain platform, an analyst has made positive forecasts about the future of the token. 

[David Cox](https://www.cryptonewsz.com/forecast/ankr-price-prediction/) at CryptoNewsZ believes the token will continue to benefit from the extensive usage of Ankr and soar to $0.095 by the end of 2023. He further estimates the token to reach the best possible prices of $0.26 in 2027 and $0.445 in 2030, respectively. 

Whether or not this article answered the question, 'What is Ankr?', you should remember that the crypto market is highly unpredictable. Always weigh risks against rewards. 

What is ANKR? The Web3-Powering Crypto

## What led to the rise of KuCoin? 

Two IT nerds who were early blockchain users are behind KuCoin. 

Michael, who began coding at the age of eight and launched his first firm at 16, began mining BTC when he learned about Bitcoin from his supervisor Eric in 2012. However, when he attempted to sell some BTC on Mt. Gox, he realised that what was then the world's largest marketplace took much work for amateurs to use. 

As blockchain usage grew, Michael and Eric saw that it was transforming the financial system to benefit everyone globally — including the less educated, unemployed, and unbanked — relatively not just the wealthy few. By the end of 2013, they had completed the initial draughts of the KuCoin code. 

In 2017, the Seychelles-based crypto exchange announced an initial coin offering. Known as "the people's exchange", it is ranked in the top 10 largest crypto exchanges by volume, according to CoinMarketCap.com. 

## How does KuCoin affect US users? 

[KuCoin](https://www.kucoin.com/) is not authorised in the US. Users there can sign up for accounts, but they will remain "unverified", limiting access to some functions. KuCoin has comparable restrictions outside of the US.  

KuCoin has low fees and allows you to trade in various [cryptocurrencies](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/what-is-cryptocurrency/). It's one of the few platforms that allows US consumers to open a margin account for trading cryptocurrency. It gives a 20% reduction on trading costs when you use its token, [KuCoin Token](https://www.coinbase.com/price/kucoin-token) (KCS).   

Users must complete essential financial industry Know Your Customer (KYC) disclosures on the platform. These revealers are put in place to combat crime and money laundering.    

[Hackers](/news/article/nft-hackers-passports) routinely attack cryptocurrency exchanges. The exchange was hacked in 2020, and more than $280 million in assets were lost. However, most of the stolen assets were recovered, while KuCoin paid for the ones they could not recover through its insurance.  

Discounts are given to investors depending on their average monthly holdings of KCS, the platform's native token, or their trading volume in the preceding month. They can reduce fees even more if they pay using KCS. 

## KuCoin fee and class structure 

KuCoin, like other cryptocurrency exchanges, features a maker/taker fee structure, which means you pay varying costs based on whether your order is a maker or a taker. 

Makers add liquidity to exchange by placing fresh open orders that others can fill. Meanwhile, takers restrict liquidity by satisfying existing maker orders. 

The maker/taker fees level varies according to trading level and coin "class" on KuCoin. Cryptocurrencies on exchanges are classified as follows: 

### There are three classes: 

- Class A includes the most popular cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH). The maker/taker range when trading Class A coins and the basic level of Level 0 (LV0) is 0.1%/0.1%, respectively. 

- Class B coins, such as Love Coin (LOVE), trade for a 0.2%/0.2% maker/taker fee for that low-volume level of LV0. 

- Class C has very few coins mentioned, and you may never have heard of some of the ones that are listed. Class C contains [cryptos](/news/article/kucoin-crypto-metaverse) with less than $1 million market caps, such as BURP and HIPUNKS. 

Users must pay a charge to withdraw practically all coins from their KuCoin account, as with other cryptocurrency exchanges. 

## KuCoin protection plan 

The crypto exchange has collaborated with Onchain Custodian, a Singapore-based crypto asset protection platform, to keep custody of KuCoin's crypto assets.   

Furthermore, Lockton, a private insurance agency, backs such assets. The site provides basic security protections such as identity verification, password swapping, and anti-phishing phrases.  

However, due to their inability to complete KYC verification, US customers are warned that their accounts may not be as safe as overseas ones. Unverified accounts do not have the same fraud and hacker protection as verified accounts. 

## How to open a KuCoin account 

It is simple to open an account. Go to the respective website, join, and input your email address. They will email you a verification code, which you will enter to create your password. You may also register using a phone number. 

Once you've signed up, you can configure your security settings. These include identity verification,  trade password, and anti-phishing safety phrases are among them. Once you've finished configuring your security settings, you're ready to start trading crypto. 

Customers in the US cannot complete the KYC procedure or use verification benefits such as more significant daily withdrawal limits, fiat trading, better futures leverage, and faster account recovery if they lose their credentials or their account gets hacked, as KuCoin is not US licensed 

With more than 700 currencies on the KuCoin platform, novice and experienced investors may discover almost any cryptocurrency they want to buy or trade. 

## Disadvantages 

The main disadvantage of KuCoin is for users in the US. The need for a US licence poses several dangers. The primary concern is the difficulty for consumers residing there to complete KYC verification. 

Users of KuCoin's platform in the US face significant risks not shared by other platforms licenced in the country. The ability to complete KYC verification would allow clients in the US to access the full range of KuCoin's products. It would also make the site more secure and easier for users in the US. 

The crypto exchange may be a better option for overseas users, as they can complete KYC verification. US customers are not afforded the same safeguards as overseas users. 

kucoin logo on blue background image of man trading

KuCoin: What Led to Its Rise? 

If you have ever asked, 'What is Bitso?', I'm here to help. 

The Bitso cryptocurrency exchange is the first to provide cryptocurrency trading in Mexican pesos. It gives Bitcoin payment services from Mexican merchants and cryptocurrency trading opportunities. The exchange's headquarters are in México.  

## What is Bitso's crypto exchange platform?  

[Bitso](https://bitso.com/) is a first-of-its-kind [cryptocurrency exchange](/news/article/ftx-exchange-under-investigation) platform. Despite the two countries' difficult political climates, it invites US investors to trade on its platform. However, US investors should separately investigate any issue that may emerge due to their domicile or citizenship. 

The [exchange](https://www.blockdata.tech/profiles/bitso) is notable for various reasons. The first is its exchange procedure. It is essential and straightforward. Customers may fund and withdraw money from their accounts, which is the second benefit. The third critical component is its security, driven by cutting-edge technology. 

Another reason for its popularity is the usage of several wallets. Choose the finest online or offline cryptocurrency [wallet ](/news/article/theta-wallet-a-guide)for saving your coins. Bitso's robust exchange APIs contribute to its reputation. It implies that the platform enables users to construct effective apps. 

## How does it function? 

Bitso is a relatively easy platform to use. Starting a transaction on this cryptocurrency trading website is straightforward. 

The first stage will be for people to register on the site. After that, they must complete their KYC, letting users deposit their chosen amount on the Bitso exchange and begin trading. 

## Bitso's key features: 

- User-friendly and easy-to-understand interface. 

- Very efficient customer support system 

- Low trading fee 

- Easy registration process 

- Availability of several cryptocurrencies to trade 

## What is Bitso exchange and what does it offer? 

One of the finest features of the cryptocurrency trading site is its inexpensive trading costs, which naturally attract many customers. 

The site is also simple to navigate, which is another important feature provided by the trading platform. 

Bitso exchange's customer service is among the finest in the market, ensuring that every consumer on the platform receives assistance with anything they want. 

The site's mobile application is also one of the key offerings that distinguish it. 

Consumers may trade from their phones anywhere at any time using the mobile app, which improves the usefulness of this cryptocurrency trading platform. 

The trading fees vary based on the user's chosen trading volume and currency. Users that use Bitcoin as their fixed currency must pay the lowest fee of 0.075% for the minimum trading volume and 0.098% for makers and takers. 

The maker and taker costs for users who select USD as their currency are 0.095% and 0.099%, respectively. 

Unlike many other exchanges, it allows various payment options for deposits and withdrawals. International Bank Wire, Ripple, Either Withdrawals, and SPEI are examples. 

Bitso enables crypto trading for customers in Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina. However, the corporation intends to expand its operations to other regions. It now supports nine different types of cryptocurrencies. They are Bitcoin, Ethereum, TrueUSD, Ripple, DAI, Litecoin, Decentraland, Bitcoin Cash, and BAT.  

The exchange offers three levels of verification, each with its unique set of benefits. Since it allows for fiat currency trade, they must comply with KYC and AML rules. Bitso's security features include multisig wallets and two-factor authentication. The website has a support centre with helpful information, videos, social networking, and FAQs. 

What is Bitso and Why Is It Popular?

The crypto fear and greed index uses social signals and trends to score the overall sentiment of the cryptocurrency market. 

Like all indexes, the fear and greed index crypto style builds its rating from various data sources to provide a single figure between 1 and 100. This metric is a popular tool in the arsenal used by cryptocurrency traders and investors looking to determine whether it is a good time to make their moves in the market. 

The index provides four categories depending on the score. These are: 

- 0-24 Extreme Fear (orange) 

- 25-49 Fear (amber/yellow) 

- 50-74 Greed (light green) 

- 75-100 Extreme Greed (green) 

As anyone who has invested or attempted to trade crypto will know, cryptocurrency is often subject to high levels of volatility. Emotions can get the better of investors. People often rush in to trade for fear of missing out (FOMO), getting greedy when prices ascend or panic selling when prices drop. 

Managing emotions is key to becoming a successful trader. The fear and greed index crypto assessment can be a helpful tool to accomplish that. 

By analysing available information, traders can remove emotion and make smarter decisions. When conditions are categorised as 'Extreme Fear', it is often a good time to buy. Conversely, when the indicator shows 'Extreme Greed', it is often a good time to sell. The[ indicator ](https://alternative.me/crypto/fear-and-greed-index/)is easy to find through a simple Google search or by accessing its [Twitter feed.](https://twitter.com/BitcoinFear) 

## Final score 

The index is calculated and managed by [Alternative.me](https://alternative.me/) and uses a range of sources to determine its score. Volatility, market momentum/volume, social media sentiment, market dominance, and trends are all used to help determine the final score. 

- Volatility – the rate of change between buy and sell pressure. A rise in the volatility rate usually signals the start of fear in the market. 

- Market momentum/volume – market momentum is used in conjunction with the rate of current volume. If volume begins to outpace the current momentum, then the market is becoming too greedy. 

- Social media sentiment – by using a tool like the Twitter Sentiment Analysis Tool, high interaction rates can be identified, and greedy behaviour can be avoided. 

- Market dominance – when Bitcoin dominance starts to rise, it is generally accepted that this signals that wise money is moving to the safer haven of the number one cryptocurrency. Conversely, when Bitcoin dominance begins to fall, this is seen as a good time to move your capital into more risk-on altcoins. 

- Trends – the fear and greed index crypto assessment uses data from Google Trends to calculate how many people are searching for cryptocurrency information. Terms such as 'Is Bitcoin a scam?' are viewed as bearish indicators, whereas 'What will the price of Bitcoin be in 2030?' are considered bullish. 

## Effectiveness 

The chart below shows how accurate and effective the fear and greed index crypto assessment can be. 

![histogram of world news](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/Screenshot_2023_05_02_at_09_10_45_4c10bab5ce.png)

As you can see, the index lives most of its time in the greed area and rarely drops into fear for more than a month. It also demonstrates how crypto sentiment closely correlates with the macroeconomic situation. 

The lowest level sentiment fell to was immediately after the first Covid impact in March 2020 as worldwide financial markets sold off to protect their investments. Little more than a year later, we saw the index reach its highest point in February 2021 and the beginning of the DeFi summer. 

This chart shows that although situations can change overnight, when the indicator shows greed or extreme greed, it tends to stay in that area for extended periods. Overall, I believe this chart shows that the general sentiment for crypto has been pretty healthy for the past two years. 

However, many investors view the fear and greed index as only a short-term indicator rather than a long-term analysis forecast. This is mainly due to its reliance on news events and short-term fluctuations. This probably explains why the tool is more popular among traders than long-term investors. 

## Emotions 

As mentioned above, anyone involved with crypto trading or investing will understand how volatile the market can be. Unless we are careful, we may become exposed to the dreaded emotional roller-coaster. 

Not much imagination is required to understand that this is not the best place to be. So, one of the more common questions people ask me is, how do we control our emotions when trading? 

The advice I will share is to always consider and reconsider before making any market moves. When you think that [the average price prediction for Bitcoin by 2030 is $500,000](https://www.cnbc.com/cryptoworld/?&qsearchterm=cryptocurrency), it becomes clear that this market still has plenty of room for upward movement. 

Therefore, I think long and slow moves are best, if any at all. However, here are some of the best ways I find to remove the emotion from your financial decision-making: 

Diversify – a diversified portfolio is often the best way to deal with the peaks and troughs of long-term investing, and it is no different with cryptocurrency. 

Dollar Cost Averaging (DCA) – dollar cost averaging will remove much of the strain associated with trying to time market tops and bottoms. This is one of the most powerful ways to remove emotion from the game. Just set up a recurring payment and focus on the long term. 

Be fearful when others are greedy – according to the 'Oracle of Omaha' Warren Buffet, it pays to be fearful when others are exhibiting greed and to be greedy when the market is full of fear. This is good advice, but in practice a lot harder to perfect than it might seem. 

As you can see, the fear and greed index is a handy tool that can greatly impact your trading and investing decisions. Used in conjunction with other technical analysis, it can radically change your investment decision-making. 

However, as with any form of investing, it is imperative that you conduct due diligence before making any financial decisions. 

fear and greed index on phone with blue background

Fear and Greed Crypto Index: Is It Effective?

[Bitkeep](https://bitkeep.com/en/index) is a decentralised wallet that offers safety and transparency, ensuring that your data and assets are always under your control. 

With support for more than 90 blockchain networks, you can explore a variety of NFTs, DeFi protocols, and DAOs. The platform enables efficient cross-chain trading, making hot NFTs and tokens easily accessible. You can access more than 20,000 DApps across multiple networks through their Web3 DApp browser. 

This company has been in safe operation for more than five years now and boasts a user base of more than 8,000,000 users globally. The platform supports over 255,400 tokens and over 220,000 NFTs. With its vast array of available tokens and NFTs, BitKeep provides its users with numerous opportunities to invest in their preferred digital assets. 

The wallet provides users with a multichain solution, allowing them to manage their crypto portfolios across more than 90 blockchain networks. This is done by importing existing wallets or creating new ones within the app. To ensure the safety and security of users' crypto assets, they employ a unique Double Encryption Storage Mechanism (DESM). Even if a user's device is lost or stolen, their assets remain secure and protected. 

## BitKeep offers comprehensive crypto solutions 

With BitKeep Swap, users can benefit from a comprehensive DEX market with optimised cross-chain transactions and liquidity aggregated from multiple DEXs and bridges. 

The platform also offers an [NFT](/news/article/nft-tax-uk-rules-explored) market with a search function, allowing users to invest in NFTs using any token easily. Additionally, its DApp store provides a Web3 browser that lets users securely access the latest DeFi, trading, social, and gaming DApps across multiple mainnets. Users can also favourite their most frequently used DApps for quick and easy access. 

This wallet has gained immense popularity among crypto enthusiasts, with almost 8 million users across 168 countries. It has established ecosystem partnerships and [strategic alliances](https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/bitkeep) with the top 30 public chains such as Polygon, [Solana](/news/article/solana-doodle-apes-explained), BSC, ETH, HECO, OEC, TRON, Fantom, Wax, IOST, AVAX, zkSync, Terra Luna, Near, Arbitrum, among others. These partnerships have made it an officially recommended wallet for them. 

With support for more than 80 main chains, 20,000+ DApps, and 245,400+ crypto assets, it aims to offer its users the most convenient and user-friendly decentralised portal. 

## BitKeep Secure Asset Fund 

To provide added security for user accounts and promote the growth of the [blockchain](/news/article/what-is-blockchain) ecosystem, BitKeep has established this fund. 

With an initial seed fund of $1,000,000, BitKeep plans to allocate 10% of its monthly Swap revenue to the fund. Additionally, they will invest in security technology annually to protect accounts from being hacked. The seed fund is stored in blockchain addresses to ensure transparency and accountability. 

To ensure transparency, wallet addresses have been made public for the fund. Over 50% of the fund is held in stablecoins, which helps minimise the impact of token price fluctuations. Furthermore, the fund is continually being funded to ensure the safety of assets. 

bitkeep logo on blue image of man using computer

BitKeep Crypto Wallet for Multichain Management

## Lendhub: taking non-bank lending to a new level 

As the Silicon Valley Bank collapse threatens traditional lending, there could be an opportunity for Lendhub to take non-bank lending to new heights. 

The SVB crash triggered the second-largest bank collapse in history. The problem is that bad news travels fast, and bad news about money travels faster. An unchecked bank run quickly spreads and engulfs an entire sector. 

Lending is one of the banking activities that suffers in a banking crisis. When banks need to hold on to their deposits, the last thing they want to do is push money out. An exception is if they have to do beneficial deals, such as paying as little as [HSBC did to acquire SVB’s UK division](/news/article/silicon-valley-bank-uk-to-be-bought-by-hsbc). 

A banking crisis is never good if you are a business person and operate in sectors where large amounts of money are needed for projects (such as real estate). But the latest banking crisis may be the next moneymaker for Lendhub and other alternative non-bank lending industry operators. 

## SVB’s collapse: the unintended catalyst 

The SVB collapse had an unintended but positive impact on companies such as Lendhub, which are involved in non-bank credit financing. Regulators and even US President Joe Biden are promising stricter rules for traditional banks to prevent a recurrence of the latest collapse. New rules mean borrowers will face tougher loops to qualify for loans. This is sweet music to the ears of non-bank lending companies like Lendhub. 

Business is picking up fast. Law firm Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld advises clients on taking non-bank loans and has seen an [uptick in inquiries about its non-bank lending options](https://www.businessinsider.com/private-credit-shadow-banking-silicon-valley-bank-collapse-lending-2023-3?r=US&IR=T). Other companies in this space, such as Applied Real Intelligence, are already talking to several startups with valuations above $ 1 billion. 

## Lendhub’s non-banking role going forward 

SVB's collapse may have dried up funding for tech startups, but these companies are not the only ones that will start exploring new options. Non-bank bridge, refurbishment, and development financing providers for the real estate sector may become the first point of contact for developers and individuals seeking these loans. 

These companies now have a chance to establish themselves as the lenders of first resort and not just as the alternative. Many of these companies are staffed by lawyers and people who have worked in bank supervision and regulation, so they know the rules and how to play by them without all the red tape of traditional banking. 

blue image of two people lending money with lendhub logo overlayed

Lendhub: New Level Non-Bank Lending

## Why is Bybit crypto a viable way to earn during crypto winters? 

The [Bybit crypto](/news/article/bybit-uk) exchange is a trading venue where contests and giveaways occur. If you have invested heavily in cryptos and are still smarting from the crypto winter that seized the market, consider looking for alternative ways to earn using the Bybit exchange. 

Here are a few ways to earn from the Bybit exchange. This information acts as a guiding light to your path and nothing more. You must walk that path by doing your own research to see which of these contests, if any, are good for you. 

## Bybit crypto contests 

It is Bybit crypto gaming season once more. Even as the crypto market continues to face challenges sustaining the knee-jerk uptick of January 2023, there are opportunities to profit from the market in other ways. 

One of these ways is by participating in competitions and promotions pushed out from time to time on centralized crypto exchanges. The Bybit crypto exchange is one such exchange, and several gaming competitions are currently open to the public. 

Before taking on the rest of the competition to get your share of the giveaways, you must understand a few things. 

a) The giveaways work both ways. They are meant to be for your benefit and that of the exchange. You have to put in the required work to benefit from them. They are an opportunity for the exchange to increase its public engagement and reward users who aid them in such engagement by participating in the contests. 

b) Bybit launches several of these giveaway contests from time to time. 

c) Some of these competitions do not require you to be an experienced trader. You could win if you know how to engage with people online. 

## Types of Bybit crypto giveaway contests 

What are the various types of giveaway contests found on Bybit? Having some idea about this is essential as it will help you decide where to focus your efforts. There is no point in registering for a trading contest if you are not a good trader. Likewise, if you lack the skills of marketing or social engagement, participating in contests that require a solid knowledge of the use of the various channels of social engagement may not be for you. The good thing is that there is a contest for everyone, so you can always find your bearings. 

## Core trading contests 

These come in different formats, but they all have one thing in common: you must engage in some trading activity as part of the contest. 

You are given an event period and you will need to carry out spot or derivative trades and achieve specific targets to get a share of the prize pool. Targets might be to achieve certain profit levels or set amounts in trading volumes. 

## Account upgrade contests 

Some contests reward users for performing account upgrades. The Bybit exchange recently launched a product called the unified trading account (UTA). This account type offers users enhanced leverage of up 10x for margin trades and provides 60 assets for cross-margin trading. 

## Stake-to-earn contests 

This category usually applies to new listings. You may be invited to use some of your stablecoins to acquire and stake newly listed tokens. You qualify for a reward when you stake these tokens for a certain period. Some staked tokens attract as much as 90% APY. You will find some of these opportunities on the [Bybit Earn](https://www.bybit.com/en-US/earn/home) product suite. 

## Recent Bybit crypto contests 

Here are some of the recent Bybit crypto contests. 

a) Unified trading account contest 

This contest involves actual trading but provides a volume target of $10,000 in Perpetual Contracts. You must have migrated to the UTA to participate, with a prize of 50,000 USDT to be shared by winners. 

b) Trading Rodeo 

This is a contest that is offering 700,000 USDT in prizes. To participate, you need to put on spot trades for a share of 100,000 USDT or derivative trades to aim for a percentage of the prize. Contest winners are decided on a ranking system based on trading volumes. 

c) P2P trading games 

An existing 10,000 USDT prize pool has been set aside for winners in the peer-to-peer trading games. This is for those who buy and sell cryptos to individuals listed on the P2P network instead of others on the spot/derivative markets. 

## Conclusion 

There is a world of opportunity on Bybit crypto. You have to go there and put in the extra work that most will not do to be a contest winner. 

bybit crypto logo on image of crypto exchange

Bybit Crypto Trading Games Review

## Your ultimate guide to Platypus Finance 

A single-sided Automatic Market Maker (AMM) for[ stablecoins,](/news/article/what-are-stablecoins) Platypus Finance was created on the [Avalanche Network](/news/article/what-is-avax-wallet), which was designed to enhance capital efficiency. 

Instead of mandating liquidity providers (LPs) to offer liquidity by pairing tokens (e.g., ETH-AVAX), LPs have the option to provide liquidity by offering a single type of token. 

This mechanism was introduced as a way for LPs to offer liquidity with a single token type instead of the traditional pair tokens, ultimately reducing the impermanent loss for LPs while also increasing trading efficiency. Platypus works on the principle of asset liability, which is where LPs always receive the same amount and type of token that was deposited by them originally, along with any rewards they earned whenever they choose to withdraw from the liquidity pool. 

In many existing AMMs, there are several design flaws when it comes to things like impermanent loss risk, capital inefficiencies, and UX fragmentation. Platypus Finance was made to overcome these problems and work by enhancing the process on current frameworks. Platypus Finance has developed a single-sided liquidity provision mechanism called StableSwap. 

## StableSwap 

StableSwap is a smart way of exchanging cryptocurrencies, allowing for smoother transactions, better user experience, and improved scalability. Unlike other exchange platforms, StableSwap doesn't require specific pairs of tokens for trading. This means users can trade any token for any other token, making it more flexible and accessible. 

At the heart of StableSwap's design is the principle of asset liability management (ALM). This means that deposits made by LPs are recorded as a liability for the platform. LPs receive LP tokens representing the exact amount and type of token they deposited into the liquidity pool. 

This ensures that when LPs withdraw their tokens, they receive precisely the same amount of tokens they deposited, along with any rewards earned. 

ALM also enables each token to grow naturally based on its demand and supply, unlike most other AMMs that require all tokens to have the same level of liquidity, which can hinder the growth of less popular tokens. 

This design gives StableSwap a reliable metric for tracking its financial health, lending out idle assets, and eliminating impermanent loss. Overall, StableSwap provides a more reliable, efficient, and user-friendly way of exchanging cryptocurrencies. 

## Platypus Finance functions and pricing  

The core function of the Platypus protocol is StableSwap. This system is designed to facilitate the exchange of stablecoins pegged to the US dollar, enabling users to swap tokens easily and with minimal barriers. It aims to reduce the impact of high-value trades by minimizing friction and lowering slippage during the exchange process. Each StableSwap transaction requires a 0.01% liquidity provision fee and $AVAX for gas fees. 

## Platypus Finance price 

 ![platypus finance to GBP chart](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/Screenshot_2023_04_18_at_11_03_19_4e38dce329.png)

Currently, Platypus sits at £0.06 with a [market cap](https://coinmarketcap.com/currencies/platypus-finance/ptp/gbp/) of £2,550,619. PTP is on an upward trend after a drop at the end of March. It has a circulating supply of 41,436,585 and a fully diluted market cap of £18,467,806. 


platypus finance logo over green image of platypus

Platypus Finance: All You Need to Know 

Mathew McDermott, who is Global Head of Digital Assets at Goldman Sachs, said that 2022, the tumultuous year in the cryptocurrency market, has led to a "[flight to quality](https://www.cnbc.com/2023/02/10/goldman-sachs-digital-asset-chief-lays-out-blockchain-strategy.html)" among investors in the crypto space. 

Speaking on CNBC's "Crypto World" in February, McDermott said that the Goldman Sachs crypto trading desk only trades cash-settled derivatives, options, and futures. 

The cryptocurrency market suffered significant losses in 2022, with Bitcoin plummeting by more than 60%. The collapse of FTX, a cryptocurrency exchange, and other crypto-related companies also raised concerns about the need for federal agencies to regulate the industry. 

However, the situation has since changed, with larger investors in the space becoming more selective about which entities they trade with. McDermott noted that many of these investors now seek to trade with regulated and well-capitalised firms. He added that this trend is a direct result of the market's tumultuous year in 2022. 

## Goldman Sachs crypto focus on tokenisation and reshaping financial markets 

McDermott shared the bank's focus areas in the cryptocurrency space in the interview with CNBC's "Crypto World." According to McDermott, the bank has three main areas of focus in crypto: tokenisation, reshaping financial markets, and the impact of digital money on markets. 

McDermott emphasised the bank's excitement in exploring [blockchain technology](/news/article/alternatives-to-blockchain-technology)'s impact on the financial system and its potential commercial applications. Despite being in the early stages of adoption, McDermott sees the broad range of financial institutions building their digital asset teams and strategies, which he finds "super exciting". 

Goldman Sachs has collaborated with two other banks, [Santander](/news/article/santander-uk-news) and Societe Generale, to launch a tokenisation platform that processed a $100 million Eurobond from the European Investment Bank. In the interview, McDermott said [the bank](/news/article/which-uk-banks-allow-cryptocurrency-purchases) plans to apply the technology across all geographies and expand its global reach. 

"We've done something [in Europe](/news/article/eu-crypto-regulation-save-energy), and as we continue to build out, we're very eager to do that more broadly across the globe." 

In November, CNBC reported that Goldman Sachs partnered with crypto data firm Coin Metrics and financial firm MSCI to create a new data service called Datonomy, which seeks to classify hundreds of coins and tokens so institutional investors can understand investment better in the new asset class. 

With the new data service created, users can analyse and research data, as well as benchmark performance, manage portfolios, and create investment products based on sectors such as decentralised finance, Metaverse, smart contract platforms, and value-transfer coins. 

The Goldman Sachs crypto chief sees Datonomy as a crucial feature for the market and believes it offers clients the tools to analyse better and invest in the space smartly. 

## Goldman Sachs' optimism about the future of digital assets 

Last year, the collapse of [FTX](/news/tag/ftx) had a ripple effect on other crypto companies, ultimately leading to more realistic valuations for traditional financial institutions interested in investing in the underlying technology of cryptocurrencies, according to remarks by Goldman Sachs executive McDermott. 

Despite the significant decline in valuations of many crypto-related firms, Goldman Sachs has remained focused on the blockchain infrastructure sector and has continued identifying promising opportunities in well-managed businesses. 

McDermott highlighted that the bank had made several investments in the digital asset space, primarily focusing on blockchain infrastructure, and has seen attractive valuations in this sector. 

Speaking about crypto investments, the digital asset chief said that Goldman Sachs currently has 11 crypto-related businesses in its portfolio, including renowned Coin Metrics, infrastructure firm Blockdaemon, and the most recent investment TRM Labs. 

The Goldman Sachs crypto space strategic focus highlights the growing recognition of the potential impact of blockchain technology on the financial industry. With the bank's collaborations and investments in the space, it appears to be taking an active role in shaping the future of finance. 

Goldman Sachs: Crypto and the Flight to Quality

Are you looking for a secure crypto exchange in the UK? Our Coinbase Review UK covers features, fees, and security. 

The choice of cryptocurrency exchange plays a vital role in the execution of trading strategies. The fees, transaction processing time, ease of trading, the legal status of the platform, and transaction security can impact your trading journey. And that's when choosing the right crypto exchange becomes crucial. 

Coinbase is one cryptocurrency exchange that has dominated the market since its launch in 2012. It is one of the most credible platforms for buying and selling crypto. It is second only to Binance exchange regarding liquidity and markets. Besides, it remains the most [trusted platform for trading crypto](/news/article/best-tools-for-trading-crypto) globally.  

This article presents a Coinbase review for UK customers. So, let’s get you started! 

## Coinbase review UK: The start 

![coinbase homepage screenshot](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/Screenshot_2023_04_04_at_15_38_31_63f9670223.png)
[Source ](https://www.coinbase.com/)

Coinbase is a US-based crypto firm with a distinguished reputation among crypto exchanges. The platform deals in over 200 cryptocurrencies and supports over 50 fiat currencies, including USD, GBP, AUD, and EUR. 

The exchange is known for its interactive and easy-to-navigate interface, offering a seamless experience for traders. It also makes the platform convenient to use, especially for beginners. In addition, you can get constant guidance on the platform through its educational content. It provides you with a series of tutorials and [crypto trading insights](/news/article/how-does-crypto-trading-work) to help you make informed decisions. 

The platform has more than 110 million verified users from over 100 countries. This speaks volumes for its global popularity. It aims to create a transparent financial ecosystem that makes financial products and services more accessible to a wider audience. Over the years, the exchange has contributed significantly to the broader crypto economy. 

## Pros 

- A wide range of cryptocurrencies and fiats. 

- Strong reputation for security. 

- Trading convenience. 

- A program to earn free cryptocurrencies. 

- A beginner-friendly exchange. 

- Instant withdrawals. 

- Helpful educational content. 

- Authorised by FCA. 

- Varying trading options. 

## Cons 

- High trading fees. 

- Complicated fee structures. 

## Coinbase review UK: How does it work? 

This crypto exchange allows you to easily buy, sell, or trade digital assets. It smooths out the trading procedures for you by offering a wide range of payment gateways and other trading tools.  

The exchange supports transfers through banks, debit cards, PayPal, money wires, and ACH transfers. Among these payment methods, ACH is the best cost-saving option as it allows depositing money directly from your bank without additional fees. 

The platform offers various features that not only help in trading but also assist in portfolio management. It has numerous beginner to advanced-level trading tools, allowing every trader to benefit from its services.  

Moreover, you can stake your crypto on the platform and earn rewards through its Earn program. The exchange has an ecosystem of different offerings, like a separate [wallet](wallet), [Coinbase Pro](https://pro.coinbase.com/), or [Coinbase One](https://www.coinbase.com/one). These offerings make the platform all-in-one for your trading needs.  

## Coinbase review UK: Getting started 

You can get started with the exchange by downloading the [Coinbase App](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.coinbase.android&hl=en_US). To set it up, you are required to enter your full name, email address, and a unique password. After that, you will get a verification email from the app.  

You can follow the link and instructions to verify your account. Then, enter your phone number to set up two-factor authentication. You can select the UK in the country section and proceed with your number here.  

Next, the app will require you to verify your government-issued identity. For this, you will have to upload a picture of your ID that confirms the following:  

1. You are above 18. 

2. Your legal name. 

3. Your current residence. 

Note: You cannot upload your passport cards for this purpose. 

Once you have uploaded your ID, you must answer questions like your occupation, source of income, the reason for choosing the forum, etc., to complete your registration process. 

Finally, you can integrate your preferred payment method into your account. For UK customers, there are different options, including transfer from [crypto-friendly banks in the UK](/news/article/crypto-friendly-banks-uk), SEPA transfer, PayPal, and 3D secure card. 

![coinbase payment system screenshot](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/Screenshot_2023_04_04_at_15_38_39_a5ff258183.png)

Source: [Coinbase Help ](https://help.coinbase.com/en/coinbase/getting-started/add-a-payment-method/payment-methods-for-uk-customers)

## Coinbase review UK: The features 

Here are some of the prominent features of the Coinbase cryptocurrency exchange: 

#### 1. Easy-to-use interface 

Coinbase is a user-friendly platform that comes with an interactive interface. Its browser-based platform, as well as a mobile app, both offer an easy-to-navigate interface for a smooth user experience. Even if you are a crypto non-native, you can easily browse through it and familiarise yourself with the platform. 

Apart from the interface, registering on the platform is also straightforward. You provide the basic personal information and get registered on the exchange. UK clients have various payment options, so you can easily integrate one into your account. 

#### 2. Supports 200+ cryptocurrencies 

Coinbase UK has an array of different cryptocurrencies. It supports all the popular digital assets, including [BTC](/coins/btc), [ETH](/coins/eth), [LTC](/coins/ltc), BNB, [DOGE](/coins/doge),[ USDT](/coins/usdt), ADA, SHIB, [MATIC](/coins/matic), SOL, [USDC](/coins/usdc), AVAX, and various others. Moreover, it also offers a few rising crypto tokens like MAGIC, IDEX, EOS, LCX, and numerous other upcoming tokens.  

It is also compatible with a range of fiat currencies and allows trades with GBP and EUR for UK customers, so there are no barriers for UK clients to acquire Coinbase services. 

#### 3. Coinbase Earn Program 

Coinbase UK also provides you with enough opportunities to earn crypto. It runs an Earn Program through which you can generate a passive income for yourself. It is an innovative platform that offers incentives if you complete its educational modules.  

Though the Earn Program does not offer sizable rewards, it uniquely motivates clients to learn about crypto. Besides, the modules are not too complicated, and users can easily complete the video tutorial instantly and get earned rewards.  

### 4. Crypto card 

Coinbase also offers a [crypto card](/news/article/cryptocard-choices-which-one-for-you) for spending your digital funds from the wallet. Fortunately, the virtual crypto card is also available for UK-based customers. These cryptocurrency cards are quite similar to most debit cards. The only difference is that these are connected to your crypto wallet instead of a traditional bank account. 

To enable the crypto card, you must first activate its physical copy. These cards are supported by VISA and can be used on any platform that accepts them. The exchange also provides incentives through these cards. It also lets you select the token you want to receive rewards. You can earn up to 4% through a crypto debit card. 

The cards have a withdrawal limit of £200 per month, which is free. However, you may have to pay 1% on each transaction if your withdrawals exceed the limit. 

### 5. Educational content and tutorials 

Coinbase’s popularity among beginners is partly because of its educational resources. These resources involve a range of crypto tutorials that offer guidance to beginners. The resources include different sections like tips and tutorials, crypto basics, market updates, and Web3.  

The learn and earn program uses these resources to offer incentives to the customers. You can follow and learn through these resources and get rewards at the same time. 

#### 6. Staking program 

You can also earn rewards on the Coinbase exchange through its [staking](/news/article/what-is-staking-crypto) program. Crypto staking includes using tokens backed by the Proof of Stake mechanism. You may earn a percentage if you stake these tokens or use them as collateral for verifying transactions.  

The exchange allows the staking of various tokens, including Ethereum 2.0. Through Ethereum staking, you can earn between 3% to 7.5%. However, this program charges around 25% of the staking rewards.  

# Is Coinbase legal in the UK? 

Yes, Coinbase is a completely legitimised crypto exchange in the UK. Fortunately, it is one of the few crypto firms that has secured approval from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). 

The legal document from Coinbase User Agreement mentioned that CB Payments Ltd is [“authorised and regulated” by the UK FCA](https://www.coinbase.com/legal/user_agreement/payments_europe#:~:text=CB%20Payments%2C%20Ltd%20(also%20trading,%E2%80%9D)%20with%20registration%20number%20900635.). It also says that the firm is an Electronic Money Institution (EMI), and its registration number is 900635.  

## Coinbase review UK: The fees 

Coinbase is one of the most convenient crypto trading platforms. However, this feature comes at a cost. Therefore, the exchange’s fees are on the higher side in comparison to its competitors like [Binance](https://www.binance.com/en). Interestingly, even one of its sister projects, Coinbase Pro, offers cheaper rates.  

Coinbase review (UK) shows that its fee structure is also quite complicated for traders. There are two parts to the fees, which include: 

1. Spread fee. 

2. Coinbase fee. 

Firstly, the spread fee is applied on transactions that show the difference between the actual price of the coin and the price with the platform’s profits. The exchange mostly charges around 0.5% on each transaction. 

The latter is the platform fee which depends on the nature of the transaction. Payment method, fiat currency, transaction amount, and other factors affect the platform’s price. The confusing part is that there are flat fee estimates. Still, the Coinbase fee can be higher than the estimates or can be a varying percentage.  

The estimated flat fee for the UK clients are: 

- Less than £10 transactions will cost £0.99. 

- £10 to £25 transactions will cost £1.49. 

- £25 to £50 transactions will likely cost £1.99.  

- Similarly, £50 to £200 transactions cost £2.99. 

- 1.5% will be charged for transactions above £200. 

- UK bank transfers will cost around 1.49%, and using debit cards costs 3.99%. 

## Coinbase review UK: Is it trustworthy? 

This cryptocurrency exchange is one of the most trusted ones because of its authorisation by the most reputed financial watchdogs. In the US, the exchange has the backing of Federal Deposit Insurance Corporations (FDIC). If the depositors lose their funds through a crime, the corporation will cover it through crime insurance. It is regulated by FCA in the UK, ensuring security to UK customers. 

The platform maintains high security by storing clients' funds on an offline server. It limits the risk of potential cyber-attacks. Meanwhile, it maintains client security through 2FA, biometric fingerprint logins, and AES-256 encryption for wallets. 

Coinbase also shows high liquidity, backed by financial giants like J.P. Morgan, Goldman Sachs, and others. The backing of such giants builds further trust among the people and gives them surety about their funds.  

## Coinbase review UK conclusion 

Over the years, Coinbase exchange has remained among the [top-rated cryptocurrency exchanges](/news/article/best-exchanges-for-crypto-uk), and there are good reasons behind it. The platform offers one of the most user-friendly interfaces, allowing anyone to familiarise themselves with the exchange instantly. 

Furthermore, it provides great learning material for anyone looking to enter the crypto market. 

Although it charges higher fees, our Coinbase Review UK indicates the platform is well-protected. It ensures funds security and has insurance to give a backup to their clients. Meanwhile, you get numerous earning opportunities on the forum. All these reasons make Coinbase an ideal platform to kickstart your trading journey. 

coinbase website on laptop in modern office. Blue filter on image

Coinbase Review: Is it the best exchange for the UK? 

Takafumi Komiyama and Yuzo Kano [launched](https://cryptonews.com/reviews/bitflyer/) bitFlyer after working in various capacities for the investment bank Goldman Sachs. Kano traded equity derivatives and convertible bonds, whereas Komiyama was a developer. 

[bitFlyer](https://bitflyer.com/en-eu/) has raised approximately $37 million in seven funding rounds since its inception. Its supporters include well-known companies such as Digital Currency Group, SBI Investment, and Venture Labo Investment. 

The exchange allows users to purchase and sell Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies in exchange for their choice of fiat money, such as USD, EUR, or JPY. It also enables speedy cryptocurrency purchases with a bank card and other payment options. 

Despite being a prominent exchange in Japan, it is the best-kept secret among European and US traders because of its cheap fees, rapid service, superior security, and ease of use. Remember that, due to regulatory variations, the Japanese, European, and American versions provide somewhat different services at slightly different prices. Regardless of your country, it remains a beginner-friendly and outstanding fiat gateway exchange. 

It is still popular for buying and trading Bitcoin and altcoins in a safe, regulated, and trustworthy environment. Despite this, bitFlyer is one of the lowest-fee exchanges among authorised companies, making it an excellent and dependable alternative for all traders. 

## Key features 

The exchange's key features include: 

- The ability to buy and sell Bitcoin and top altcoins. The exchange accepts five to eight prominent cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC), [Ethereum](/news/article/eth-shanghai-upgrade-postponed) (ETH), [Litecoin](/news/article/litecoin-predictions) (LTC), and others. 

- Very low fees. bitFlyer has among the lowest costs among authorised exchanges, making it an excellent fiat gateway for beginner and experienced crypto traders. 

- Highly secure. bitFlyer has never been hacked and is the best exchange regarding regulatory compliance in the cryptoverse. 

- Easy to use. bitFlyer provides two trading options: a simple interface for basic transactions and a complex Lightning exchange for experienced investors. 

- Margin and futures trading. Customers from Japan can trade on bitFlyer's Lightning FX platform, which provides up to 4x leverage. 

- Corporate account. Institutional investors can apply for a corporate account with additional benefits and services. 

# Conclusion 

In a nutshell, bitFlyer is a top-tier exchange that operates in major markets. 

Due to its regulated structure, the exchange may be better for privacy-conscious consumers. However, it remains a good fiat gateway and a secret among many experienced crypto investors. 

blue image of bitflyer logo on blue background

Is bitFlyer a Good Exchange?

Web3 is the next level of all things internet, where the blockchain plays a very active role. While Web3 is yet to sink fully into global consciousness, former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey has come up with a very ambitious idea for what he calls "Web5". 

Many people need clarification, especially as there is no Web4 yet, and Web3 is not even in full operation. So what is Web5 all about? 

## Origins of the Web5 concept 

Dorsey's concept aims to give the user complete control of personal information and data, a form of self-sovereignty. According to Dorsey, Web5 is to become an extra-decentralized web platform whose core tenets are: 

- Decentralized web nodes, which are used for messaging and data storage. 

- Verifiable credentials. 

- Decentralized, self-owned identifiers. 

A critical look at the core tenets shown above indicates that they are similar to what Web3 seeks to achieve. Besides, the entire concept is not inventing anything new. It seeks to tweak the existing web architecture to rid it of the big-money players who serve as venture capitalists funding the Web3 apps. This becomes obvious from the tweets that announced his TBD project, which is set to run on his new extra decentralized network. 

The tweet in question showed the phrase "RIP Web3 VCs" in brackets, in an apparent reference to his loathing of the involvement of venture capitalists in many [Web3 projects](/news/article/uquid-web3-integrates-with-polygon). 

The lack of a remarkable novelty in Web5 has drawn the ire of many stakeholders. Some have taken issue with this unilateral capture of the Web5 name, given that all previous web versions (Web1 and Web2) were clearly defined and assigned their nomenclature via a global consensus of stakeholders and only after they were in operation. 

For instance, Web1 is the first version of Tim Berners-Lee's world wide web, which was marked by a race to produce the best web browsers and th[eir fundamental workings before social media became a thing. Web2 became known as ](http://radar.oreilly.com/archives/2005/10/web-20-compact-definition.html)Web1 + social media or the so-called social web in which the internet is a platform that spans connected devices, as elucidated by Tim O'Reilly in 2005. Web3 incorporates distributed ledger technology and its products into the workings of Web2. Gavin Wood, founder of Polkadot, in 2014 developed this concept when he was Ethereum's Chief Technology Officer. Dorsey's Web5 remains a project in development, and there is nothing on the ground that can be used to assess his utopian tenets. 

## Should Dorsey’s Web5 concept be trusted? 

It is my opinion that the concept of Web5 should show a clear addition to whatever work has gone into bringing the internet to where it is today, which is at the Web3 stage. It should not be a case of an individual abusing his influence in the space to appropriate the concept without clearly showing what improvements to Web3 his project is bringing to the table. 

Dorsey presided over a company, Twitter, with its fair share of criticisms. One of its most ardent critics has been Elon Musk, who bought the company and took control of its leadership. Musk has variously criticized the opacity surrounding the verification processes Twitter uses to ensure ads are not delivered to bot accounts. Dorsey never really came clean on how the company handled such matters. There have also been complaints about the rather one-sided censorship it applied to those seen to be opposed to the company's liberal ideology in the last years of his tenure. 

With such a history, one wonders if Dorsey's Web5 is just a marketing gimmick or a genuine attempt to improve on Web3. Does he have the moral compass to be at the forefront of a version of the web he says will promote extra decentralization? Time will tell. 

blue image of jack dorsey and number 5 balloon

Should Dorsey's Web5 Concept Be Trusted?

[Hotbit](https://www.hotbit.io/) is a global cryptocurrency exchange launched in 2018 to offer users efficiency, stability, diversity, and high-level security. 

![hotbit crypto website homepage screenshot](https://s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/prod-monitalks-media/Screenshot_2023_03_31_at_14_47_15_da19bc31d5.png)


The exchange is headquartered in Taipei and Shanghai, but it offers services to users worldwide. With more than 5 million registered users, the exchange is dedicated to building an ecosystem that benefits the crypto industry. 

Hotbit offers its users 24/7 real-time online audit services and a secure trading environment through its industry-leading security system and architecture. It has not received any reports of lost funds since its launch. 

The platform provides a range of features comparable to leading exchanges, such as purchasing crypto assets, trading digital currencies, accessing NFTs, and investing money to grow portfolios. Users can sign up on the platform from over 200 countries to enjoy full access to its cryptocurrency services. 

The exchange has also collaborated with several prominent industry partners in the [blockchain](/news/article/top-blockchain-projects-2023) technology sector, including Spark Pool, Mytoken, F2pool, HashQuark, and Slow Mist. These partnerships aim to provide traders and investors with a trading environment that is secure, stable, and equipped with advanced features. 

## How to get started with Hotbit exchange 

To register for Hotbit, users must visit the website and click the "register" option to begin the sign-up process. Once registered, users must verify their email by entering their email ID and following the confirmation link sent to their email. They will then need to copy the code provided, enter their password, agree to the terms and conditions, and click the "register" option to complete the process. 

The Hotbit login process is considered easy, secure, and straightforward. Users can access their account by clicking the "sign-in" button on the Hotbit website and providing their email ID and password. 

The Hotbit exchange platform does not require KYC verification to start trading. Also, it provides two-factor authentication to secure its users' data. 

Once logged in, users can add deposits to their accounts and proceed with trading. The platform offers a beginner-friendly interface with various features that traders can easily navigate upon logging in. In addition, it provides a mobile app for traders who want to trade on the go. 

Hotbit's charting interface is offered by [Tradingview](/news/article/tradingview-uk-101), which provides traders with intuitive, smooth, and clean charts. This allows traders to utilise advanced indicators and trading tools to make informed decisions, ultimately helping to maximise profits and minimise risk. 

## Hotbit exchange platform offerings 

Hotbit provides its users with the option of spot and futures trading, demo trading, and purchasing cryptocurrency using a card. Furthermore, the exchange offers ETFs and earn products on various cryptocurrencies, including USDT, [BTC](/news/article/bitcoin-liquidations-spark-price-spike), ETH, and other altcoins. 

One of the platform's features is the availability of ETF trading, which could benefit investors seeking to diversify their portfolios. Moreover, Hotbit's earn products allow users to earn interest on their cryptocurrency holdings. 

The exchange offers maximum leverage of up to 100X on perpetual contracts, which can attract traders seeking high leverage and risk. 

## Trading fees 

Hotbit provides spot trading fees for makers, ranging from 0.05% to 0.50%. However, the fee for takers is slightly higher, ranging from 0.2% to 0.65%. Additionally, the futures trading fee for makers and takers is the same as the spot trading fee, which is relatively higher than that of the competition. 

## Is the Hotbit exchange legit? 

Hotbit is a legit [cryptocurrency exchange](/news/article/best-crypto-exchange-uk-reddit) with a vast user base spanning various countries. It has gained recognition as one of the largest and most rapidly growing exchanges globally in terms of daily trading volume, as reported by Coinmarketcap. The platform features an internal review audit team that operates around the clock, providing real-time online audit services for user assets. 

Additionally, Hotbit has partnered with major audit teams in the cryptocurrency industry, such as Beosin and Slow Mist. Through these collaborations, Hotbit conducts extensive security checks and promptly notifies users of potential security risks before they can be exploited. 


Hotbit Exchange: How to Get Started