“What is a cryptocurrency exchange?” … At one point, the notion of having digital money may have seemed weird and unachievable, but with the current surge in popularity of cryptocurrencies, many have opted to own and invest in this kind of cash. If you’re new to cryptocurrency trading, you may be wondering, “What is a cryptocurrency exchange?”
What Is a Cryptocurrency Exchange?
If you’re wondering where to purchase bitcoin, you’re likely to begin your investment adventure on a cryptocurrency trading site. Cryptocurrencies exchanges are online marketplaces for the purchase and sale of cryptocurrency. These platforms act as an intermediary between buyer and seller, allowing users to exchange cryptocurrencies using fiat currency or alternative cryptocurrencies.
Due to the cheap trading fees associated with cryptocurrency exchanges, many investors prefer to use them. Bear in mind, however, that not all platforms are beginner-friendly, sometimes overwhelming users, particularly those unfamiliar with stock trading. As such, it’s critical to grasp the distinctions between each exchange platform in order to choose the one that works best for you.
Types of Cryptocurrency Exchanges
If you’re eager to purchase your first cryptocurrency, a vital first step is to familiarise yourself with the many sorts of cryptocurrency exchanges:
Centralized
The most popular type of exchange platform is a centralised crypto exchange, which makes use of a third party — a middleman — to facilitate transactions. The intermediary operates as a bank, providing protection and supervision in exchange for the trust placed in them with their money. Some investors believe this idea is deceptive, as cryptocurrencies are decentralised and do not require a central authority.
Decentralized
Unlike centralised cryptocurrency exchanges, decentralised exchanges do not use an intermediary; instead, they rely on blockchain technology or distributed ledgers. This less prevalent kind of exchange eliminates the need for a third party to hold the money, and transactions are conducted peer-to-peer using smart contracts.
Notable Crypto Exchanges
With over 6,500 cryptocurrencies in existence today, there is a sizable market for crypto exchanges, with over 300 sites. Before deciding on the finest cryptocurrency trading platform for your needs, it’s critical to conduct your own study, as there are several alternatives. The following are some crypto exchange platforms that we recommend:
Binance
Binance, founded in 2017 and widely regarded as the greatest crypto trading platform, offers a list of hundreds of currencies to choose from, as well as its own wallet.
Trading fees:
- 0.1 percent spot trading fee
- 0.5 percent instant buy/sell fee
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Coinbase
With over 50 cryptocurrencies to trade, some believe Coinbase to be the finest cryptocurrency trading platform. Additionally, Coinbase simplifies the process of buying and selling crypto by providing high security and transparency. This is an excellent site for cryptocurrency traders who wish to earn staking incentives as well.
Trading fees:
- Coinbase: from 99 cents to $2.99
- Coinbase Pro: up to 0.5 percent
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Gemini
Gemini supports over 40 cryptocurrencies and is an excellent platform for both novice and experienced traders. While Gemini has a straightforward interface, it also has upgrading features and tools for sophisticated trading. The network, which was launched in 2015, is open about its security procedures and keeps bitcoins in an offline cold storage system.
Trading fees:
- 0.5 percent convenience fee
- 99 cents to $2.99 transaction fee and 1.49 percent for trades over $200
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Kraken
Kraken is one of the oldest platforms, having been created in 2011. It is also widely regarded as one of the top cryptocurrency exchanges. With over 60 cryptocurrencies and a high level of cybersecurity, Kraken also offers very low trading costs, making it an excellent choice for more experienced traders.
Trading fees:
- Up to 0.26 percent
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KuCoin
KuCoin is also one of the largest cryptocurrency exchanges, supporting over 300 different cryptocurrencies. With a simplistic interface, KuCoin makes trading relatively easy, which is good for novices, but also has extra features that make it suitable for more experienced users.
Trading fees:
- 0.1 percent spot trading fee
- 0.5 percent instant buy/sell fee
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Bittrex
Bittrex is an excellent site for anyone seeking for a broad selection of cryptos – it now supports over 190. Bittrex, founded in 2014, thinks that security is critical for a successful exchange platform. Additionally, it is user-friendly, making it an excellent platform for novices.
Trading fees:
- 0.25 percent flat trading fee
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What to Look For When Picking a Cryptocurrency Exchange
At the end of the day, everyone has an opinion about the best site to acquire cryptocurrency. Whether you’ve made a selection or are still debating between a few possibilities, it’s critical to understand what to look for when selecting a cryptocurrency exchange.
Is It Convenient?
Wherever you are in the globe, you should examine the cryptocurrency exchanges that are available in your nation, as well as state restrictions. Examining the platform’s website or terms of service might assist you in determining whether it is accessible to you.
What Coins Are Available?
It may come as a surprise to learn that several cryptocurrency exchanges do not support all coins. New currencies with lower market capitalizations may be restricted to specific platforms. It’s a good idea to choose the cryptocurrencies you intend to purchase in advance and then choose an exchange that supports them.
Is There a Fee?
While some individuals choose the alternative with fewer costs, it is critical to understand why such fees are levied and how they are calculated. Occasionally, paying a larger charge provides more security and simplifies the process of transferring cryptos. You may discover that paying a greater price results in a better overall experience than paying a lesser fee.
Is It Safe?
Because one of the primary reasons for using cryptocurrency is for its security, choosing a secure platform is just as critical for keeping your money safe. Certain sites will insure your digital money against fraud or hacking. Consider additional security elements, such as a two-factor authentication system, when selecting an exchange. If you choose for a smaller exchange over a bigger one, keep in mind that younger or smaller exchanges may not have the most robust security features.
Is It Liquid?
One aspect of crypto exchanges that is sometimes ignored is their liquidity. You want to ensure that you can sell your cryptocurrency anytime and at the best price possible. This needs the exchange to have a sufficient trading volume, which is frequently the case with the most prominent crypto exchanges.
What Storage Options Are Available?
Whether you’re a newbie or have dabbled in crypto investment previously, it’s critical to consider the platform’s storage choices. While there are certain trade-offs between keeping your cryptos in your wallet and storing them on the platform, as a novice, choosing an exchange that allows you to store them in your online account is a decent choice. Simply ensure that you are permitted to withdraw them from the exchange if you subsequently desire to transfer them to your wallet.
Is It a Source of Tax Information?
As with investing in equities, any capital gains earned when trading cryptocurrencies must be reported on your taxes. Certain platforms provide Form 1099-B, which keeps account of your earnings and losses, making it easier to file taxes in the future. Because taxes may be complicated, particularly for novices, finding a platform that delivers that information can help make tax filing less stressful.
Are There Any Additional Tools Available?
With so many crypto exchanges to choose from, they will also vary in terms of the additional tools and perks they provide. Consider the platform’s functionality and appearance, as well as its ease of use and integration with your own investment monitoring software, such as the Mint app.
Bottom Line: Crypto Investing Begins With Educating Yourself
If you began this course with the question, “What is a cryptocurrency exchange?” Hopefully, you now have a better idea of what to look for when selecting a platform. However, it does not end there – investing in cryptocurrency may be a time-consuming process that requires extensive study. Because the market is always changing and learning never ends, keeping track of your money may be an excellent method to ensure a pleasant trading experience.
Sources: Investopedia | Time | BitDegree
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