{ "publisher": "VaultRubric", "url": "https://vaultrubric.com", "generated": "2026-10-11", "license": "Free to use, quote and cite with attribution: 'Source: VaultRubric (vaultrubric.com)' and a link to the relevant vaultrubric.com page. Facts carry their original source URL and as-of date; scores are VaultRubric's methodology (https://vaultrubric.com/methodology). Not investment advice.", "methodology": "https://vaultrubric.com/methodology", "attribution": "Source: VaultRubric (vaultrubric.com)", "category": "Exchange", "slug": "exchanges", "criteria": { "fees": "Fees", "security": "Security & track record", "coins": "Supported coins", "ease_of_use": "Ease of use", "support": "Customer support", "us_availability": "US availability/regulation" }, "scoring": "Equal weights across the whole category; scores are relative to the products in this file (head-to-head pages compare only the listed products, so numbers differ).", "category_pick": "Binance.US", "too_close_to_call": null, "products": [ { "name": "Binance.US", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 68.8, "data_coverage_pct": 100, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [ { "date": "2023-06", "type": "Regulatory: SEC sued Binance/BAM Trading (Binance.US) for unregistered exchange/broker activity and misrepresenting trading controls; dismissed with prejudice 2025-05-29, no penalty", "regulatory": true, "source": "https://www.sec.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2023-101-sec-files-13-charges-against-binance-entities-founder-changpeng-zhao" } ], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 8.3, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 0.02% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. Base rate for every user on all Advanced (spot) pairs since 2026-04-22, no volume tier or subscription; select pairs (e.g. BNB/USD) 0.01%. One Click Buy/Convert priced separately.", "sources": [ "https://blog.binance.us/zero-fee-trading/", "https://cointelegraph.com/news/binance-us-cuts-spot-trading-fees-to-near-zero-in-push-to-undercut-rivals" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7 No incidents collected for Binance.US itself (Binance global 2019 hot-wallet hack is a different entity).", "sources": [ "https://www.sec.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2023-101-sec-files-13-charges-against-binance-entities-founder-changpeng-zhao" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 6.4, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "190 assets (190+ cryptocurrencies (binance.us homepage)); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://www.binance.us/" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 8.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Users and reviews note simple interface and intuitive design for beginners.", "sources": [ "https://www.bitdegree.org/crypto/binance-us-review" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 4.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Mixed reviews cite mediocre experiences and live chat limitations despite some positive feedback.", "sources": [ "https://www.bitdegree.org/crypto/binance-us-review" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.6, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "available in 38/50 states. Not available to new users in AK, CT, GA, ME, NY, NC, ND, OH, OR, TX, VT, WA (12); KS & WI crypto-only (no USD).", "sources": [ "https://support.binance.us/en/articles/9842798-list-of-supported-and-unsupported-states-and-regions" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×8.3 + 0.167×7.0 + 0.167×6.4 + 0.167×8.0 + 0.167×4.0 + 0.167×7.6 = 6.88 → 68.8%", "facts": { "incidents": [], "fees_notes": "Base rate for every user on all Advanced (spot) pairs since 2026-04-22, no volume tier or subscription; select pairs (e.g. BNB/USD) 0.01%. One Click Buy/Convert priced separately.", "price": null, "regulation": null, "insurance": null, "hq": null, "us": true, "us_note": "US-only entity; not in 12 states", "regions": null } }, { "name": "Kraken", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 64.5, "data_coverage_pct": 100, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [ { "date": "2024-06", "type": "treasury loss" }, { "date": "2026-04", "type": "data breach" }, { "date": "2023-02", "type": "Regulatory: SEC settlement over unregistered staking-as-a-service: $30M, US staking program ended", "regulatory": true, "source": "https://www.sec.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2023-25" } ], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 1.1, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 0.8% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. Kraken Pro base tier; sources disagree (0.25/0.40 vs 0.40/0.80). Simple buys ~1% fee + 1% spread per Yahoo.", "sources": [ "https://www.datawallet.com/crypto/best-crypto-exchanges-usa", "https://kriptometa.com/en/best-crypto-exchanges" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.2, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, +1 proof of reserves, +1 regulation/licensing cited, −0.25 treasury loss (2024-06), −0.5 data breach (2026-04), −1 civil settlement (2023-02)", "sources": [ "https://www.theblock.co/post/300888/kraken-discloses-bug-exploited-for-nearly-3-million", "https://www.theblock.co/news/regulation/2026-04-13-kraken-security-says-exchange-wont-negotiate-faces-extortion-threat-397260", "https://www.sec.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2023-25", "https://www.datawallet.com/crypto/best-crypto-exchanges-usa" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.6, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "523 assets (500+ (Datawallet), 200+ (Yahoo)); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://www.finder.com/cryptocurrency/exchanges" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 8.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "User-friendly for beginners with intuitive interfaces and easy upgrade to Pro", "sources": [ "https://www.businessinsider.com/personal-finance/kraken-investing-review" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.8, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "", "sources": [ "https://www.finder.com/cryptocurrency/exchanges/kraken-exchange-review", "https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/cryptocurrency/kraken-review", "https://www.finder.com/ca/cryptocurrency/exchanges/kraken-exchange-review" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "available in the US (state coverage not verified, scored 7). Kraken lists United States among jurisdictions where it holds authorizations (some state restrictions apply)", "sources": [ "https://support.kraken.com/articles/where-is-kraken-licensed-or-regulated", "https://www.mexc.com/learn/article/best-crypto-exchange-alternatives-2026-are-you-paying-24x-too-much-to-trade-/1" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×1.1 + 0.167×7.2 + 0.167×7.6 + 0.167×8.0 + 0.167×7.8 + 0.167×7.0 = 6.45 → 64.5%", "facts": { "incidents": [ { "date": "2024-06", "type": "treasury_loss", "summary": "Deposit bug exploited for ~$3M from Kraken treasury (not client assets); funds returned", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.theblock.co/post/300888/kraken-discloses-bug-exploited-for-nearly-3-million", "type": "third_party" } ] }, { "date": "2026-04", "type": "data_breach", "summary": "Insider-filmed support systems; ~2,000 accounts potentially viewed; extortion attempt; no funds at risk", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.theblock.co/news/regulation/2026-04-13-kraken-security-says-exchange-wont-negotiate-faces-extortion-threat-397260", "type": "third_party" } ] } ], "fees_notes": "Kraken Pro base tier; sources disagree (0.25/0.40 vs 0.40/0.80). Simple buys ~1% fee + 1% spread per Yahoo.", "price": null, "regulation": [ "Regulated in multiple jurisdictions (FCA, FinCEN-registered per Rononcrypto)" ], "insurance": null, "hq": null, "us": true, "us_note": "Kraken lists United States among jurisdictions where it holds authorizations (some state restrictions apply)", "regions": null } }, { "name": "eToro", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 62.8, "data_coverage_pct": 100, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 0.9, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 1.0% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. 1% trading fee", "sources": [ "https://finance.yahoo.com/personal-finance/investing/article/best-crypto-exchanges-154453640.html" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 8.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, +1 regulation/licensing cited", "sources": [] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 5.8, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "110 assets (110+); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://finance.yahoo.com/personal-finance/investing/article/best-crypto-exchanges-154453640.html" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 9.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Intuitive UI, social features, and beginner-friendly design praised across reviews.", "sources": [ "https://www.finder.com/uk/cryptocurrency/exchanges/etoro-cryptocurrency-review" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Live chat for funded users and educational resources, but mixed app reviews and BBB complaints.", "sources": [ "https://www.finder.com/uk/etoro-cryptocurrency-review" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "available in the US (state coverage not verified, scored 7). Crypto via eToro USA LLC; state-specific licensing on the disclosures page", "sources": [ "https://www.etoro.com/en-us/customer-service/state-disclosures/" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×0.9 + 0.167×8.0 + 0.167×5.8 + 0.167×9.0 + 0.167×7.0 + 0.167×7.0 = 6.28 → 62.8%", "facts": { "incidents": [], "fees_notes": "1% trading fee", "price": null, "regulation": [ "eToro USA LLC and eToro NY LLC registered as MSBs with FinCEN (NMLS 1769299 / 1900938)", "eToro NY: NYDFS money transmitter + BitLicense", "State money transmitter licenses" ], "insurance": null, "hq": null, "us": true, "us_note": "Crypto via eToro USA LLC; state-specific licensing on the disclosures page", "regions": null } }, { "name": "Robinhood Crypto", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 61.7, "data_coverage_pct": 83, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [ { "date": "2021-11", "type": "data breach" } ], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": null, "imputed_score": 2.9, "basis": "not found — No commission; cost is in the spread (Datawallet test buys ~0.5% all-in). Not directly comparable to maker/taker, so fee score = not found.", "sources": [] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.5, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, −0.5 no proof of reserves, +1 regulation/licensing cited, 0 data breach (2021-11, >48 months, no customer funds lost)", "sources": [ "https://www.robinhood.com/us/en/newsroom/robinhood-announces-data-security-incident-update", "https://www.reuters.com/technology/robinhood-says-email-addresses-5-mln-customers-exposed-data-security-incident-2021-11-08/", "https://finance.yahoo.com/personal-finance/investing/article/best-crypto-exchanges-154453640.html" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 5.4, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "81 assets (63 (Yahoo), 45+ (Datawallet)); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://www.finder.com/cryptocurrency/exchanges" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 8.2, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "", "sources": [ "https://www.nerdwallet.com/investing/reviews/robinhood", "https://www.finder.com/cryptocurrency/exchanges/robinhood-crypto-review", "https://www.nerdwallet.com/investing/best/crypto-exchanges-platforms" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 6.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Mixed reviews on customer service accessibility and responsiveness", "sources": [ "https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/robinhood-buy-sell-crypto/id6467049008" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "available in the US (state coverage not verified, scored 7). Listed among US exchanges; NYDFS BitLicense", "sources": [ "https://www.datawallet.com/crypto/best-crypto-exchanges-usa" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×2.9* + 0.167×7.5 + 0.167×5.4 + 0.167×8.2 + 0.167×6.0 + 0.167×7.0 = 6.17 → 61.7% (* unknown, imputed)", "facts": { "incidents": [ { "date": "2021-11", "type": "data_breach", "summary": "Robinhood (parent) support systems accessed via social engineering: ~5M email addresses and ~2M names exposed; no SSNs or bank numbers, no financial loss reported", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.robinhood.com/us/en/newsroom/robinhood-announces-data-security-incident-update", "type": "official", "as_of": "2026-10-11" }, { "url": "https://www.reuters.com/technology/robinhood-says-email-addresses-5-mln-customers-exposed-data-security-incident-2021-11-08/", "type": "third_party", "as_of": "2026-10-11" } ] } ], "fees_notes": "No commission; cost is in the spread (Datawallet test buys ~0.5% all-in). Not directly comparable to maker/taker, so fee score = not found.", "price": null, "regulation": [ "NYDFS BitLicense" ], "insurance": null, "hq": null, "us": true, "us_note": "Listed among US exchanges; NYDFS BitLicense", "regions": null } }, { "name": "Bitstamp", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 61.3, "data_coverage_pct": 100, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [ { "date": "2015-01", "type": "customer funds loss >48 months ago" } ], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 2.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 0.4% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. Order book, <$10k 30-day volume", "sources": [ "https://kriptometa.com/en/best-crypto-exchanges" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 5.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, +1 regulation/licensing cited, −3 customer funds loss (2015-01)", "sources": [ "https://blog.bitstamp.net/post/bitstamp-is-open-for-business-better-than-ever/", "https://techcrunch.com/2015/01/05/bitstamp-bitcoin-exchange-hack/" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 5.8, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "117 assets (Distinct base assets with trading enabled (official trading-pairs API)); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://www.bitstamp.net/api/v2/trading-pairs-info/" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 9.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Multiple sources highlight user-friendly interface for beginners with low learning curve.", "sources": [ "https://www.fool.com/money/cryptocurrency/bitstamp-review?luri=%2Fcryptocurrency%2Freviews%2F&furi=%2Fcryptocurrency%2Freviews%2F&fuuid=9a8de6cd-b8ab-43ac-a7bc-8e284def247b&luuid=9a8de6cd-b8ab-43ac-a7bc-8e284def247b%3Cyp%3Dtxt" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 8.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "24/7 customer support via phone/email is consistently noted across reviews.", "sources": [ "https://www.businessinsider.com/personal-finance/investing/bitstamp-crypto-exchange-review" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "available in the US (state coverage not verified, scored 7). Served via Bitstamp USA, Inc. (NYDFS-licensed)", "sources": [ "https://www.bitstamp.net/legal/", "https://kriptometa.com/en/best-crypto-exchanges" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×2.0 + 0.167×5.0 + 0.167×5.8 + 0.167×9.0 + 0.167×8.0 + 0.167×7.0 = 6.13 → 61.3%", "facts": { "incidents": [ { "date": "2015-01", "type": "customer_funds_loss", "customers_reimbursed": true, "summary": "Hot (operational) wallets compromised; ~18,866 BTC (~$5.3M) stolen. Bitstamp covered the loss from its reserves and honored customer balances in full", "sources": [ { "url": "https://blog.bitstamp.net/post/bitstamp-is-open-for-business-better-than-ever/", "type": "official", "as_of": "2026-10-11" }, { "url": "https://techcrunch.com/2015/01/05/bitstamp-bitcoin-exchange-hack/", "type": "third_party", "as_of": "2026-10-11" } ] } ], "fees_notes": "Order book, <$10k 30-day volume", "price": null, "regulation": [ "CSSF (Luxembourg) payment institution + crypto-asset service provider (MiCA)", "FCA-registered (UK)", "MAS major payment institution (Singapore)", "Bitstamp USA: NYDFS virtual currency license" ], "insurance": null, "hq": null, "us": true, "us_note": "Served via Bitstamp USA, Inc. (NYDFS-licensed)", "regions": null } }, { "name": "Uphold", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 60.0, "data_coverage_pct": 100, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [ { "date": "2022-07", "type": "data breach" } ], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 0.3, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 3.8% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. 1.8%–3.8% trading fee (highest used)", "sources": [ "https://finance.yahoo.com/personal-finance/investing/article/best-crypto-exchanges-154453640.html" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 9.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, +1 proof of reserves, +1 regulation/licensing cited, 0 data breach (2022-07, >48 months, no customer funds lost)", "sources": [ "https://uphold.com/en-us/blog/security/incident-at-third-party-firm", "https://uphold.com/en-us/transparency" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 6.7, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "250 assets (250+); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://finance.yahoo.com/personal-finance/investing/article/best-crypto-exchanges-154453640.html" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 9.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Multiple independent reviews highlight intuitive interface, easy onboarding, and seamless UX for beginners.", "sources": [ "https://www.businessinsider.com/personal-finance/investing/uphold-review" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 4.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Reviews note limited options like email/chatbot only, slow responses, and mixed user feedback on effectiveness.", "sources": [ "https://www.nerdwallet.com/investing/reviews/uphold" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "available in the US (state coverage not verified, scored 7). US entity licensed/registered per Uphold transparency page", "sources": [ "https://uphold.com/en-us/transparency" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×0.3 + 0.167×9.0 + 0.167×6.7 + 0.167×9.0 + 0.167×4.0 + 0.167×7.0 = 6.00 → 60.0%", "facts": { "incidents": [ { "date": "2022-07", "type": "data_breach", "summary": "Third-party email vendor (Customer.io) insider leaked Uphold customer email addresses; Uphold says it was not hacked and no funds were stolen", "sources": [ { "url": "https://uphold.com/en-us/blog/security/incident-at-third-party-firm", "type": "official", "as_of": "2026-10-11" } ] } ], "fees_notes": "1.8%–3.8% trading fee (highest used)", "price": null, "regulation": [ "Operating entities licensed or registered in the US, UK, EU and the Bahamas; subject to regular US state audits" ], "insurance": null, "hq": null, "us": true, "us_note": "US entity licensed/registered per Uphold transparency page", "regions": null } }, { "name": "Coinbase", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 59.3, "data_coverage_pct": 100, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [ { "date": "2025-05", "type": "data breach" }, { "date": "2023-01", "type": "Regulatory: NYDFS consent order over compliance (AML/KYC) failures: $50M penalty + $50M compliance investment", "regulatory": true, "source": "https://www.dfs.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2023/01/ea20230104_coinbase.pdf" } ], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 0.8, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 1.2% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. Coinbase Advanced base tier; sources disagree (0.40/0.60 vs 0.60/1.20). Simple buys: ~0.84% fee + ~1% spread per Yahoo.", "sources": [ "https://www.datawallet.com/crypto/best-crypto-exchanges-usa", "https://finance.yahoo.com/personal-finance/investing/article/best-crypto-exchanges-154453640.html" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, +1 regulation/licensing cited, +0.5 insurance cited, −0.5 data breach (2025-05), −1 civil settlement (2023-01)", "sources": [ "https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1679788/000167978825000094/coin-20250514.htm", "https://www.insurancejournal.com/news/national/2025/05/16/823970.htm", "https://www.dfs.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2023/01/ea20230104_coinbase.pdf" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 6.8, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "271 assets (300+ (Yahoo)); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://www.finder.com/cryptocurrency/exchanges" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 8.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "User-friendly for beginners with intuitive interface and educational resources", "sources": [ "https://www.businessinsider.com/personal-finance/investing/coinbase-investing-review" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 3.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Poor reputation with difficult access to human support and many unresolved complaints", "sources": [ "https://www.cnbc.com/select/coinbase-crypto-exchange-review" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 10.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "available in 50/50 states. Regulation: Public company (Nasdaq-listed per Datawallet: 'S&P 500 listed'); NY BitLicense", "sources": [ "https://finance.yahoo.com/personal-finance/investing/article/best-crypto-exchanges-154453640.html" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×0.8 + 0.167×7.0 + 0.167×6.8 + 0.167×8.0 + 0.167×3.0 + 0.167×10.0 = 5.93 → 59.3%", "facts": { "incidents": [ { "date": "2025-05", "type": "data_breach", "summary": "Bribed overseas support contractors leaked customer data (~69k accounts); no passwords/keys/funds accessed; est. cost up to $400M", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1679788/000167978825000094/coin-20250514.htm", "type": "official" }, { "url": "https://www.insurancejournal.com/news/national/2025/05/16/823970.htm", "type": "third_party" } ] } ], "fees_notes": "Coinbase Advanced base tier; sources disagree (0.40/0.60 vs 0.60/1.20). Simple buys: ~0.84% fee + ~1% spread per Yahoo.", "price": null, "regulation": [ "Public company (Nasdaq-listed per Datawallet: 'S&P 500 listed')", "NY BitLicense" ], "insurance": "Crime insurance for crypto; FDIC insurance for USD cash balances (per Yahoo)", "hq": null, "us": true, "us_note": "All 50 states", "regions": null } }, { "name": "Swyftx", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 56.2, "data_coverage_pct": 83, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 1.4, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 0.6% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. Tiered 0.1%–0.6% by 30-day volume; base tier 0.6%", "sources": [ "https://swyftx.com/au/fees-and-pricing" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 8.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, +1 regulation/licensing cited Incident history not collected for this platform yet.", "sources": [] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.3, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "410 assets (410+); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://cryptoreview.com.au/reviews/coinspot.html" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 9.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. Multiple independent reviews praise intuitive interface, easy setup, and beginner-friendly features.", "sources": [ "https://nz.trustpilot.com/review/swyftx.com?page=4" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 8.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. User reports frequently highlight responsive, helpful Australian customer service with quick resolutions.", "sources": [ "https://au.trustpilot.com/review/swyftx.com?page=5" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": null, "imputed_score": 0.0, "basis": "not found", "sources": [] } ], "score_math": "0.167×1.4 + 0.167×8.0 + 0.167×7.3 + 0.167×9.0 + 0.167×8.0 + 0.167×0.0* = 5.62 → 56.2% (* unknown, imputed)", "facts": { "incidents": [], "fees_notes": "Tiered 0.1%–0.6% by 30-day volume; base tier 0.6%", "price": null, "regulation": [ "AUSTRAC-registered crypto exchange", "ISO 27001 certified" ], "insurance": null, "hq": null, "us": null, "us_note": null, "regions": "Australia" } }, { "name": "Gemini", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 55.7, "data_coverage_pct": 100, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [ { "date": "2022/2023", "type": "data breach" }, { "date": "2024-06", "type": "Regulatory: NY Attorney General settlement over Gemini Earn: $50M", "regulatory": true, "source": "https://coingeek.com/sec-dumps-more-lawsuits-but-not-everyone-done-with-the-whip/" }, { "date": "2025-01", "type": "Regulatory: CFTC settlement over false/misleading statements in a derivatives product certification: $5M", "regulatory": true, "source": "https://coingeek.com/sec-dumps-more-lawsuits-but-not-everyone-done-with-the-whip/" } ], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 0.8, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 1.2% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. ActiveTrader base tier; sources disagree (0.20/0.40 vs 0.60/1.20, latter citing schedule dated 2026-09-01). Simple app: $0.99–$2.99 flat or 1.49% + 0.5% convenience fee (Finder).", "sources": [ "https://www.datawallet.com/crypto/best-crypto-exchanges-usa", "https://kriptometa.com/en/best-crypto-exchanges", "https://www.finder.com/cryptocurrency/exchanges" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 6.2, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, +1 regulation/licensing cited, +0.5 insurance cited, −0.25 data breach (2022/2023), −1 civil settlement (2024-06), −1 civil settlement (2025-01)", "sources": [ "https://www.theblock.co/news/business/2023-03-03-gemini-says-third-party-incidents-resulted-in-phishing-scam-targeting-european-users-216947", "https://coingeek.com/sec-dumps-more-lawsuits-but-not-everyone-done-with-the-whip/" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 5.4, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "81 assets (80+ / 90+); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://www.finder.com/cryptocurrency/exchanges" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 8.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "User-friendly for beginners with simple interface and high app ratings", "sources": [ "https://www.businessinsider.com/personal-finance/investing/gemini-review" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 3.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Lacks phone support, slow responses, poor BBB rating and complaints", "sources": [ "https://www.finder.com/cryptocurrency/exchanges/gemini-exchange-review" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 10.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "available in 50/50 states. Regulation: NYDFS trust charter; Nasdaq-listed", "sources": [ "https://www.finder.com/cryptocurrency/exchanges" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×0.8 + 0.167×6.2 + 0.167×5.4 + 0.167×8.0 + 0.167×3.0 + 0.167×10.0 = 5.57 → 55.7%", "facts": { "incidents": [ { "date": "2022/2023", "type": "data_breach", "summary": "Third-party vendor incidents leaked customer names/emails/partial phones; phishing followed; no accounts accessed", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.theblock.co/news/business/2023-03-03-gemini-says-third-party-incidents-resulted-in-phishing-scam-targeting-european-users-216947", "type": "third_party" } ] } ], "fees_notes": "ActiveTrader base tier; sources disagree (0.20/0.40 vs 0.60/1.20, latter citing schedule dated 2026-09-01). Simple app: $0.99–$2.99 flat or 1.49% + 0.5% convenience fee (Finder).", "price": null, "regulation": [ "NYDFS trust charter", "Nasdaq-listed" ], "insurance": "Assets in Gemini custody are insured (per Finder)", "hq": null, "us": true, "us_note": "All 50 states", "regions": null } }, { "name": "Bitvavo", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 55.5, "data_coverage_pct": 83, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 2.9, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 0.25% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. €0+ 30-day volume tier", "sources": [ "https://bitvavo.com/en/fees" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 9.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, +1 proof of reserves, +1 regulation/licensing cited Incident history not collected for this platform yet.", "sources": [ "https://exchangeflow.co/exchanges/comparison/bitvavo-vs-bitpanda" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.4, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "427 assets (450+ trading pairs (CoinMarketCap)); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://cryptowinrate.com/comparisons/bitpanda-vs-bitvavo/" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 8.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. Multiple users praise platform as easy for beginners and reliable.", "sources": [ "https://www.trustpilot.com/review/bitvavo.com" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 6.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. Replies to reviews are common but some note limited hours and vague responses.", "sources": [ "https://www.trustpilot.com/review/bitvavo.com" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": null, "imputed_score": 0.0, "basis": "not found", "sources": [] } ], "score_math": "0.167×2.9 + 0.167×9.0 + 0.167×7.4 + 0.167×8.0 + 0.167×6.0 + 0.167×0.0* = 5.55 → 55.5% (* unknown, imputed)", "facts": { "incidents": [], "fees_notes": "€0+ 30-day volume tier", "price": null, "regulation": [ "MiCA licence (Dutch AFM)" ], "insurance": null, "hq": "Netherlands", "us": null, "us_note": null, "regions": null } }, { "name": "Gate", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 55.0, "data_coverage_pct": 83, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 5.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 0.1% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. Spot regular; 0.09% paying in GT", "sources": [ "https://jason-finance.com/en/exchange-fee-comparison/" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 9.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, +1 proof of reserves, +1 regulation/licensing cited Incident history not collected for this platform yet.", "sources": [ "https://www.gate.com/proof-of-reserves" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 10.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "3,600 assets (CONFLICT: Gate's own figure 3,600 used; third parties report 1,700-2,100); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://cex-compare.com/en/compare/gate-vs-htx/" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 4.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Difficult navigation and not beginner-friendly despite some positive app ratings", "sources": [ "https://www.businessinsider.com/personal-finance/investing/gateio-review" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 5.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. Mixed reviews with slow responses, frozen accounts, but some resolutions and 24/7 availability", "sources": [ "https://www.trustpilot.com/review/gate.com" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": null, "imputed_score": 0.0, "basis": "not found", "sources": [] } ], "score_math": "0.167×5.0 + 0.167×9.0 + 0.167×10.0 + 0.167×4.0 + 0.167×5.0 + 0.167×0.0* = 5.50 → 55.0% (* unknown, imputed)", "facts": { "incidents": [], "fees_notes": "Spot regular; 0.09% paying in GT", "price": null, "regulation": [ "8 licences/registrations incl. Malta/EEA, Dubai, Gibraltar, Bahamas, Japan, Australia, Cyprus, Hong Kong" ], "insurance": null, "hq": null, "us": null, "us_note": "Separate Gate US entity serves only jurisdictions where licensed; not verified per state", "regions": null } }, { "name": "MEXC", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 54.3, "data_coverage_pct": 83, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 6.7, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 0.05% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. Spot base; 20% off paying in MX", "sources": [ "https://jason-finance.com/en/exchange-fee-comparison/" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": null, "imputed_score": 5.0, "basis": "not found", "sources": [] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 8.9, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "1,500 assets (None); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://en.coinotag.com/guide/crypto-exchange-comparison" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 8.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "App and platform praised for smooth interface and beginner accessibility", "sources": [ "https://apps.apple.com/us/app/mexc-buy-bitcoin-crypto/id1605393003?see-all=reviews&platform=iphone" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 4.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. Customer service described as slow, obscure policies, and lacking transparency", "sources": [ "https://www.trustpilot.com/review/www.mexc.com" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 0.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "not available to US users. US listed as Prohibited Jurisdiction", "sources": [ "https://www.mexc.com/en-GB/terms" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×6.7 + 0.167×5.0* + 0.167×8.9 + 0.167×8.0 + 0.167×4.0 + 0.167×0.0 = 5.43 → 54.3% (* unknown, imputed)", "facts": { "incidents": [], "fees_notes": "Spot base; 20% off paying in MX", "price": null, "regulation": null, "insurance": null, "hq": null, "us": false, "us_note": "US listed as Prohibited Jurisdiction", "regions": "Prohibited: US, UK, Canada, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, mainland China, Kazakhstan and others" } }, { "name": "OKX US", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 53.7, "data_coverage_pct": 83, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 2.2, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 0.35% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. Regular U.S. tier", "sources": [ "https://kriptometa.com/en/best-crypto-exchanges" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 8.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, +1 regulation/licensing cited", "sources": [] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": null, "imputed_score": 5.0, "basis": "not found", "sources": [] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Intuitive interface praised but complex for beginners and some fee/withdrawal issues noted.", "sources": [ "https://www.finder.com/cryptocurrency/exchanges/okx-exchange-review" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 3.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. Multiple user complaints about poor, unresponsive, and unhelpful customer service.", "sources": [ "https://ca.trustpilot.com/review/okx.com?page=3" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "available in the US (state coverage not verified, scored 7). OKX INC.; not in NY, TX and some territories", "sources": [ "https://www.okx.com/help/us-licenses" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×2.2 + 0.167×8.0 + 0.167×5.0* + 0.167×7.0 + 0.167×3.0 + 0.167×7.0 = 5.37 → 53.7% (* unknown, imputed)", "facts": { "incidents": [], "fees_notes": "Regular U.S. tier", "price": null, "regulation": [ "OKX INC. registered as a Money Services Business with FinCEN", "Licensed in listed U.S. jurisdictions (NMLS# 1767779)" ], "insurance": null, "hq": null, "us": true, "us_note": "OKX INC.; not in NY, TX and some territories", "regions": null } }, { "name": "Crypto.com", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 53.5, "data_coverage_pct": 100, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [ { "date": "2022-01", "type": "customer funds loss >48 months ago" } ], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 1.7, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 0.5% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. Exchange base tier; app buys ~0.8% fee + ~1% spread (Yahoo).", "sources": [ "https://www.datawallet.com/crypto/best-crypto-exchanges-usa", "https://www.finder.com/cryptocurrency/exchanges" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 5.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, +1 regulation/licensing cited, −3 customer funds loss (2022-01)", "sources": [ "https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/cryptocom-confirms-483-accounts-hacked-34-million-withdrawn/", "https://decrypt.co/90786/crypto-com-confirms-exchange-lost-nearly-34m-hackers" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.4, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "442 assets (); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://www.finder.com/cryptocurrency/exchanges" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 8.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Intuitive app and interface praised for beginners, though US users limited to mobile.", "sources": [ "https://www.finder.com/cryptocurrency/exchanges" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 3.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer service is limited, mostly pre-written chat responses, with complaints of dishonesty.", "sources": [ "https://www.businessinsider.com/personal-finance/investing/cryptocom-review" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "available in the US (state coverage not verified, scored 7). Crypto.com Exchange (U.S.) with ACH funding", "sources": [ "https://kriptometa.com/en/best-crypto-exchanges" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×1.7 + 0.167×5.0 + 0.167×7.4 + 0.167×8.0 + 0.167×3.0 + 0.167×7.0 = 5.35 → 53.5%", "facts": { "incidents": [ { "date": "2022-01", "type": "customer_funds_loss", "customers_reimbursed": true, "summary": "2FA bypass: unauthorized withdrawals (~$34M) from 483 accounts; all affected accounts fully reimbursed", "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/cryptocom-confirms-483-accounts-hacked-34-million-withdrawn/", "type": "third_party", "as_of": "2026-10-11" }, { "url": "https://decrypt.co/90786/crypto-com-confirms-exchange-lost-nearly-34m-hackers", "type": "third_party", "as_of": "2026-10-11" } ] } ], "fees_notes": "Exchange base tier; app buys ~0.8% fee + ~1% spread (Yahoo).", "price": null, "regulation": [ "CFTC-registered derivatives arm (per Datawallet)" ], "insurance": null, "hq": null, "us": true, "us_note": "Crypto.com Exchange (U.S.) with ACH funding", "regions": null } }, { "name": "Bitpanda", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 53.2, "data_coverage_pct": 100, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 0.6, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 1.49% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. Retail app ~1.49% all-in (fee+spread); Bitpanda Pro 0.05%/0.10%", "sources": [ "https://skrumble.com/crypto-exchanges/bitpanda-review/" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.5, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, −0.5 no proof of reserves, +1 regulation/licensing cited Incident history not collected for this platform yet.", "sources": [ "https://exchangeflow.co/exchanges/comparison/bitvavo-vs-bitpanda" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.8, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "575 assets (568 (exchangeflow)); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://cryptowinrate.com/comparisons/bitpanda-vs-bitvavo/" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 9.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Multiple independent reviews highlight intuitive interface and beginner-friendly design.", "sources": [ "https://www.finder.com/cryptocurrency/exchanges/bitpanda-review" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. User reviews praise responsive and helpful support, though some note slow responses and no live chat.", "sources": [ "https://ie.trustpilot.com/review/www.bitpanda.com" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 0.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "not available to US users. US persons excluded", "sources": [ "https://www.bitpanda.com/en/legal/bitpanda-group-general-terms-conditions", "https://www.buybitcoinsmart.com/exchanges/bitpanda/united-states" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×0.6 + 0.167×7.5 + 0.167×7.8 + 0.167×9.0 + 0.167×7.0 + 0.167×0.0 = 5.32 → 53.2%", "facts": { "incidents": [], "fees_notes": "Retail app ~1.49% all-in (fee+spread); Bitpanda Pro 0.05%/0.10%", "price": null, "regulation": [ "MiCA licence (Austrian FMA)", "BaFin and MFSA authorizations for group entities" ], "insurance": null, "hq": "Vienna, Austria", "us": false, "us_note": "US persons excluded", "regions": null } }, { "name": "CoinSpot", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 52.3, "data_coverage_pct": 100, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [ { "date": "2023-11", "type": "hot wallet breach" } ], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 5.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 0.1% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. Market orders 0.1%; limit/stop/take-profit orders 1%; instant buy/sell/swap 1%", "sources": [ "https://www.coinspot.com.au/fees" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 6.8, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, −0.25 hot wallet breach (2023-11)", "sources": [ "https://cointelegraph.com/news/australia-crypto-exchange-coinspot-suffers-hot-wallet-hack-exploit-report" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.6, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "490 assets (490+); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://cryptoreview.com.au/reviews/coinspot.html" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 8.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. Multiple users praise simple navigation, quick setup, and intuitive interface for buying crypto.", "sources": [ "https://ca.trustpilot.com/review/www.coinspot.com.au?page=3" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 4.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. Positive mentions of responsive support contrast with complaints of delays, phone demands, and inadequate security reviews.", "sources": [ "https://www.trustpilot.com/review/www.coinspot.com.au?page=10" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 0.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "not available to US users. Terms: platform designed for Australian residents, not offered to persons residing outside Australia", "sources": [ "https://www.coinspot.com.au/terms" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×5.0 + 0.167×6.8 + 0.167×7.6 + 0.167×8.0 + 0.167×4.0 + 0.167×0.0 = 5.23 → 52.3%", "facts": { "incidents": [ { "date": "2023-11", "type": "hot_wallet_breach", "summary": "~1,283 ETH (~$2.4M) drained from two CoinSpot hot wallets (probable private-key compromise per CertiK); CoinSpot has not published a post-mortem and no customer losses were reported", "sources": [ { "url": "https://cointelegraph.com/news/australia-crypto-exchange-coinspot-suffers-hot-wallet-hack-exploit-report", "type": "third_party", "as_of": "2026-10-11" } ] } ], "fees_notes": "Market orders 0.1%; limit/stop/take-profit orders 1%; instant buy/sell/swap 1%", "price": null, "regulation": null, "insurance": null, "hq": "Melbourne, Australia", "us": false, "us_note": "Terms: platform designed for Australian residents, not offered to persons residing outside Australia", "regions": "Australia" } }, { "name": "bitFlyer", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 50.7, "data_coverage_pct": 83, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": null, "imputed_score": 2.9, "basis": "not found", "sources": [] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 8.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, +1 regulation/licensing cited Incident history not collected for this platform yet.", "sources": [] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 2.5, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "7 assets (Order-book spot assets in official markets API (Japan); bitFlyer USA lists BTC, ETH only); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://api.bitflyer.com/v1/markets" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Simple platform good for beginners but verification and app issues reported", "sources": [ "https://www.businessinsider.com/personal-finance/investing/bitflyer-usa-crypto-review" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 3.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Limited support options with complaints about transparency and response failures", "sources": [ "https://www.businessinsider.com/personal-finance/investing/bitflyer-usa-crypto-review" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "available in the US (state coverage not verified, scored 7). bitFlyer USA, licensed states only", "sources": [ "https://bitflyer.com/en-us/faq/account_us" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×2.9* + 0.167×8.0 + 0.167×2.5 + 0.167×7.0 + 0.167×3.0 + 0.167×7.0 = 5.07 → 50.7% (* unknown, imputed)", "facts": { "incidents": [], "fees_notes": null, "price": null, "regulation": [ "Japan crypto-asset exchange service provider, Kanto Finance Bureau No. 00003", "Type 1 Financial Instruments Business, Kanto FIBO No. 3294" ], "insurance": null, "hq": "Japan", "us": true, "us_note": "bitFlyer USA, licensed states only", "regions": null } }, { "name": "CoinDCX", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 49.0, "data_coverage_pct": 83, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [ { "date": "2025-07", "type": "treasury loss" } ], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": null, "imputed_score": 2.9, "basis": "not found", "sources": [] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.5, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, +1 regulation/licensing cited, −0.5 treasury loss (2025-07)", "sources": [ "https://coindcx.com/blog/announcements/a-transparent-update-on-the-recent-security-incident-answering-all-your-questions", "https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/coindcx-hit-by-442-mn-security-breach-founders-say-customer-funds-unaffected-safe/article69835888.ece" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.9, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "642 assets (Distinct target assets in official markets API (spot)); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://api.coindcx.com/exchange/v1/markets_details" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 9.1, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. ", "sources": [ "https://ie.trustpilot.com/review/www.coindcx.com?page=3", "https://www.trustpilot.com/review/www.coindcx.com?page=7", "https://www.bitdegree.org/crypto/coindcx-review" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 2.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. Frequent complaints about poor, slow, or rude customer service", "sources": [ "https://ca.trustpilot.com/review/www.coindcx.com" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 0.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "not available to US users. ", "sources": [ "https://cryptooverlook.com/exchanges/coindcx" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×2.9* + 0.167×7.5 + 0.167×7.9 + 0.167×9.1 + 0.167×2.0 + 0.167×0.0 = 4.90 → 49.0% (* unknown, imputed)", "facts": { "incidents": [ { "date": "2025-07", "type": "treasury_loss", "summary": "~$44M stolen from an internal operational (liquidity) account; customer wallets unaffected, loss absorbed from CoinDCX treasury", "sources": [ { "url": "https://coindcx.com/blog/announcements/a-transparent-update-on-the-recent-security-incident-answering-all-your-questions", "type": "official", "as_of": "2026-10-11" }, { "url": "https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/coindcx-hit-by-442-mn-security-breach-founders-say-customer-funds-unaffected-safe/article69835888.ece", "type": "third_party", "as_of": "2026-10-11" } ] } ], "fees_notes": null, "price": null, "regulation": [ "Registered reporting entity with FIU-India (REID VA00030982)" ], "insurance": null, "hq": "Mumbai, India", "us": false, "us_note": null, "regions": "Primarily India; international users via passport KYC" } }, { "name": "Bitfinex", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 48.3, "data_coverage_pct": 83, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [ { "date": "2016-08", "type": "customer funds loss >48 months ago" } ], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 10.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 0.0% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. 0% maker and taker on spot, no VIP tiers", "sources": [ "https://jason-finance.com/en/exchange-fee-comparison/" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 4.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, −3 customer funds loss (2016-08)", "sources": [ "https://cryptoexid.com/en/research/security-incident-database/" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": null, "imputed_score": 5.0, "basis": "not found", "sources": [] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 4.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. Mixed user feedback on interface and verification delays", "sources": [ "https://www.trustpilot.com/review/www.bitfinex.com" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 6.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. Reviews show fast responses but also unhelpful, rude, and slow resolution", "sources": [ "https://ca.trustpilot.com/review/www.bitfinex.com?page=5" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 0.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "not available to US users. US persons prohibited", "sources": [ "https://support.bitfinex.com/hc/en-us/articles/115003461254-U-S-Person-Frequently-Asked-Questions-FAQ" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×10.0 + 0.167×4.0 + 0.167×5.0* + 0.167×4.0 + 0.167×6.0 + 0.167×0.0 = 4.83 → 48.3% (* unknown, imputed)", "facts": { "incidents": [ { "date": "2016-08", "type": "customer_funds_loss", "summary": "119,756 BTC stolen; losses socialized, later repaid via tokens", "customers_reimbursed": true, "sources": [ { "url": "https://cryptoexid.com/en/research/security-incident-database/", "type": "third_party", "as_of": "2026-10-10" } ] } ], "fees_notes": "0% maker and taker on spot, no VIP tiers", "price": null, "regulation": null, "insurance": null, "hq": "British Virgin Islands", "us": false, "us_note": "US persons prohibited", "regions": null } }, { "name": "Mercado Bitcoin", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 46.7, "data_coverage_pct": 67, "limited_data": true, "eligible_for_pick": false, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 1.2, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 0.7% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. Classic/PRO order book, level 1 (0–R$10k/30d): 0.30% maker, 0.70% taker; quick trade 0.7%–3%", "sources": [ "https://www.mercadobitcoin.com.br/taxas-contas-limites" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": null, "imputed_score": 5.0, "basis": "not found", "sources": [] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 8.8, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "1,370 assets (Base symbols in official v4 symbols API; includes tokenized/RWA and fan tokens, not only cryptocurrencies); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://api.mercadobitcoin.net/api/v4/symbols" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. User-friendly for beginners with modern interface and simple modes", "sources": [ "https://www.trustpilot.com/review/www.mercadobitcoin.com.br" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 6.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Mixed feedback with some criticism on response times but positive claims on 24/7 service", "sources": [ "https://www.weusecoins.com/exchanges/mercado-bitcoin" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": null, "imputed_score": 0.0, "basis": "not found", "sources": [] } ], "score_math": "0.167×1.2 + 0.167×5.0* + 0.167×8.8 + 0.167×7.0 + 0.167×6.0 + 0.167×0.0* = 4.67 → 46.7% (* unknown, imputed)", "facts": { "incidents": [], "fees_notes": "Classic/PRO order book, level 1 (0–R$10k/30d): 0.30% maker, 0.70% taker; quick trade 0.7%–3%", "price": null, "regulation": null, "insurance": null, "hq": "Brazil", "us": null, "us_note": null, "regions": null } }, { "name": "OKX", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 45.0, "data_coverage_pct": 100, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [ { "date": "2025-02", "type": "Regulatory: Pleaded guilty to operating an unlicensed money transmitting business serving US users; ~$505M ($84M fine + $420M forfeiture)", "regulatory": true, "source": "https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdny/media/1390641/dl" } ], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 5.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 0.1% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. Spot Group 1, Regular user", "sources": [ "https://axis-intelligence.com/crypto-exchange-fees/" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 6.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, +1 proof of reserves, −2 criminal plea (2025-02) Incident history not collected for this platform yet.", "sources": [ "https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdny/media/1390641/dl", "https://coinvetted.com/learn/crypto-exchange-fee-transparency-report-2026" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "320 assets (None); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://en.coinotag.com/guide/crypto-exchange-comparison" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 6.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Mixed: intuitive for some but daunting for beginners with complex features", "sources": [ "https://www.forbes.com/advisor/au/investing/cryptocurrency/okx-exchange-review" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 3.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Frequent complaints about slow responses, frozen accounts, and poor service", "sources": [ "https://www.forbes.com/advisor/au/investing/cryptocurrency/okx-exchange-review" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 0.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "not available to US users. Global OKX not available in the US (only OKX US entity)", "sources": [ "https://www.okx.com/help/us-risk-and-compliance-disclosures" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×5.0 + 0.167×6.0 + 0.167×7.0 + 0.167×6.0 + 0.167×3.0 + 0.167×0.0 = 4.50 → 45.0%", "facts": { "incidents": [], "fees_notes": "Spot Group 1, Regular user", "price": null, "regulation": null, "insurance": null, "hq": null, "us": false, "us_note": "Global OKX not available in the US (only OKX US entity)", "regions": "Restricted locations include Canada, France, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Malaysia, Nigeria and others" } }, { "name": "Bitget", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 45.0, "data_coverage_pct": 100, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [ { "date": "2026-09", "type": "hacked, customers reimbursed" } ], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 5.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 0.1% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. Spot base; 0.08% paying in BGB", "sources": [ "https://axis-intelligence.com/crypto-exchange-fees/" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 4.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, −3 customer funds loss (2026-09)", "sources": [ "https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/hackers-steal-3516-million-in-bitget-crypto-exchange-hack/", "https://postmortem.io/incidents/bitget--2026-09-24--hot-wallet-theft-via-third-party-security-product/" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "300 assets (None); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://en.coinotag.com/guide/crypto-exchange-comparison" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 8.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. Users consistently praise clean interface and smooth navigation for beginners and traders.", "sources": [ "https://www.trustpilot.com/review/web3.bitget.com" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 3.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. Multiple complaints about poor communication, delays, unhelpful responses and lack of escalation.", "sources": [ "https://www.trustpilot.com/review/www.bitget.site" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 0.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "not available to US users. US (and territories) listed as Prohibited Countries", "sources": [ "https://www.bitget.com/terms/legal/360014944032" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×5.0 + 0.167×4.0 + 0.167×7.0 + 0.167×8.0 + 0.167×3.0 + 0.167×0.0 = 4.50 → 45.0%", "facts": { "incidents": [ { "date": "2026-09", "type": "customer_funds_loss", "summary": "~$388M stolen from hot/warm wallets via zero-day in third-party security appliances; User Protection Fund to cover all losses, user balances unaffected", "customers_reimbursed": true, "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/hackers-steal-3516-million-in-bitget-crypto-exchange-hack/", "type": "third_party", "as_of": "2026-10-10", "says": "User Protection Fund will cover all losses" }, { "url": "https://postmortem.io/incidents/bitget--2026-09-24--hot-wallet-theft-via-third-party-security-product/", "type": "third_party", "as_of": "2026-10-10", "says": "user account balances remain unaffected" } ] } ], "fees_notes": "Spot base; 0.08% paying in BGB", "price": null, "regulation": null, "insurance": null, "hq": null, "us": false, "us_note": "US (and territories) listed as Prohibited Countries", "regions": "Prohibited incl. US, Canada, France, Germany, Austria, Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Thailand" } }, { "name": "Luno", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 44.8, "data_coverage_pct": 67, "limited_data": true, "eligible_for_pick": false, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 5.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 0.1% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. Exchange tier 1 in UK/AU: 0.10% taker, 0% maker; fees vary by country (instant buy costs more)", "sources": [ "https://guide.luno.com/hc/en-gb/articles/14962740858397-Luno-fees-and-limits-in-the-UK" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": null, "imputed_score": 5.0, "basis": "not found", "sources": [] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 4.9, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "54 assets (Distinct base assets in official exchange markets API); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://api.luno.com/api/exchange/1/markets" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 8.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. Multiple users praise simplicity and ease for beginners over competitors", "sources": [ "https://nz.trustpilot.com/review/www.luno.com?page=6" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 4.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. Mixed feedback with slow responses and complaints of ignored requests despite company replies to reviews", "sources": [ "https://www.trustpilot.com/review/www.luno.com" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": null, "imputed_score": 0.0, "basis": "not found", "sources": [] } ], "score_math": "0.167×5.0 + 0.167×5.0* + 0.167×4.9 + 0.167×8.0 + 0.167×4.0 + 0.167×0.0* = 4.48 → 44.8% (* unknown, imputed)", "facts": { "incidents": [], "fees_notes": "Exchange tier 1 in UK/AU: 0.10% taker, 0% maker; fees vary by country (instant buy costs more)", "price": null, "regulation": null, "insurance": null, "hq": null, "us": null, "us_note": null, "regions": "Licensed in South Africa; regulated in Malaysia; UK customers" } }, { "name": "Independent Reserve", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 42.3, "data_coverage_pct": 83, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 1.7, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 0.5% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. Trading fee starts at 0.5%, down to 0.02% with volume (AU schedule)", "sources": [ "https://www.independentreserve.com/au/fees" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 8.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, +1 regulation/licensing cited Incident history not collected for this platform yet.", "sources": [] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 4.7, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "45 assets (Valid primary currency codes (official public API)); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://api.independentreserve.com/Public/GetValidPrimaryCurrencyCodes" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. Users praise interface and ease for beginners, though some report withdrawal difficulties.", "sources": [ "https://nz.trustpilot.com/review/www.independentreserve.com?page=2" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 4.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. Mixed feedback with slow responses and lackluster support in complaints, some positive replies noted.", "sources": [ "https://nz.trustpilot.com/review/www.independentreserve.com?page=5" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": null, "imputed_score": 0.0, "basis": "not found", "sources": [] } ], "score_math": "0.167×1.7 + 0.167×8.0 + 0.167×4.7 + 0.167×7.0 + 0.167×4.0 + 0.167×0.0* = 4.23 → 42.3% (* unknown, imputed)", "facts": { "incidents": [], "fees_notes": "Trading fee starts at 0.5%, down to 0.02% with volume (AU schedule)", "price": null, "regulation": [ "Registered Digital Currency Exchange with AUSTRAC (DCE-100461150-001)" ], "insurance": null, "hq": null, "us": null, "us_note": null, "regions": "AUD, NZD, SGD, USD funding" } }, { "name": "KuCoin", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 42.2, "data_coverage_pct": 100, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [ { "date": "2020-09", "type": "customer funds loss >48 months ago" }, { "date": "2025-01", "type": "Regulatory: Pleaded guilty to operating an unlicensed money transmitting business; ~$297M fines/forfeiture, exit US for 2 years", "regulatory": true, "source": "https://www.reuters.com/technology/kucoin-pleads-guilty-agrees-pay-nearly-300-million-us-crypto-case-2025-01-27/" } ], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 5.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 0.1% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. Spot Class A coins Level 0; Class B/C 0.2%/0.3%", "sources": [ "https://axis-intelligence.com/crypto-exchange-fees/" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 3.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, +1 proof of reserves, −3 customer funds loss (2020-09), −2 criminal plea (2025-01)", "sources": [ "https://cryptoexid.com/en/research/security-incident-database/", "https://www.reuters.com/technology/kucoin-pleads-guilty-agrees-pay-nearly-300-million-us-crypto-case-2025-01-27/", "https://coinvetted.com/learn/crypto-exchange-fee-transparency-report-2026" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.3, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "400 assets (None); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://en.coinotag.com/guide/crypto-exchange-comparison" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 6.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Simple onboarding but overwhelming for beginners and US restrictions complicate access", "sources": [ "https://www.benzinga.com/money/kucoin-review" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 4.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "24/7 support available but frequent user complaints of poor response, account locks, and unresolved issues", "sources": [ "https://www.businessinsider.com/personal-finance/investing/kucoin-review" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 0.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "not available to US users. US accounts closed Jan 2025; CFTC permanent injunction", "sources": [ "https://www.kucoin.com/announcement/us-ip-access-restrictions-and-guidance-on-asset-withdrawals-for-users-in-the-united-states", "https://www.kucoin.com/legal/terms-of-use" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×5.0 + 0.167×3.0 + 0.167×7.3 + 0.167×6.0 + 0.167×4.0 + 0.167×0.0 = 4.22 → 42.2%", "facts": { "incidents": [ { "date": "2020-09", "type": "customer_funds_loss", "summary": "~$280M hot-wallet breach; ~84% recovered, exchange covered rest", "customers_reimbursed": true, "sources": [ { "url": "https://cryptoexid.com/en/research/security-incident-database/", "type": "third_party", "as_of": "2026-10-10" } ] } ], "fees_notes": "Spot Class A coins Level 0; Class B/C 0.2%/0.3%", "price": null, "regulation": null, "insurance": null, "hq": null, "us": false, "us_note": "US accounts closed Jan 2025; CFTC permanent injunction", "regions": "Restricted: US, Singapore, mainland China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Ontario, BC, France, Netherlands" } }, { "name": "HTX", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 41.8, "data_coverage_pct": 83, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [ { "date": "2023-09", "type": "hacked, customers reimbursed" } ], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 3.3, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 0.2% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. Spot Prime0; 25% off paying in HTX token", "sources": [ "https://jason-finance.com/en/exchange-fee-comparison/" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 5.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, +1 proof of reserves, −3 customer funds loss (2023-09)", "sources": [ "https://cryptoexid.com/en/research/security-incident-database/", "https://blog.ueex.com/crypto-hacks/", "https://www.htx.com/en-us/proof-of-reserve" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.8, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "600 assets (None); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://cex-compare.com/en/compare/gate-vs-htx/" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 6.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Mixed feedback on interface intuitiveness and mobile experience, complex for beginners", "sources": [ "https://www.finder.com/cryptocurrency/exchanges/huobi-exchange-review" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 3.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. Predominantly negative user reports of ignored requests, slow responses, and poor handling of issues.", "sources": [ "https://www.trustpilot.com/review/htx.com" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": null, "imputed_score": 0.0, "basis": "not found", "sources": [] } ], "score_math": "0.167×3.3 + 0.167×5.0 + 0.167×7.8 + 0.167×6.0 + 0.167×3.0 + 0.167×0.0* = 4.18 → 41.8% (* unknown, imputed)", "facts": { "incidents": [ { "date": "2023-09", "type": "customer_funds_loss", "summary": "Hot-wallet breach (~$8M HTX; ~$110M incl. Heco bridge); customers reimbursed", "customers_reimbursed": true, "sources": [ { "url": "https://cryptoexid.com/en/research/security-incident-database/", "type": "third_party", "as_of": "2026-10-10", "says": "$110M, reimbursed Yes" }, { "url": "https://blog.ueex.com/crypto-hacks/", "type": "third_party", "as_of": "2026-10-10", "says": "$7.9M" } ] } ], "fees_notes": "Spot Prime0; 25% off paying in HTX token", "price": null, "regulation": null, "insurance": null, "hq": "Seychelles", "us": null, "us_note": null, "regions": null } }, { "name": "Bybit", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 41.5, "data_coverage_pct": 100, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [ { "date": "2025-02", "type": "hacked, customers reimbursed" } ], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 5.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 0.1% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. Spot crypto pairs VIP 0; fiat-crypto 0.15/0.20", "sources": [ "https://axis-intelligence.com/crypto-exchange-fees/" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 5.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, +1 proof of reserves, −3 customer funds loss (2025-02)", "sources": [ "https://cryptoexid.com/en/research/security-incident-database/", "https://cryptouniversity.network/guides/biggest-crypto-exchange-hacks-history", "https://coinvetted.com/learn/crypto-exchange-fee-transparency-report-2026" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 6.9, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "280 assets (None); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://en.coinotag.com/guide/crypto-exchange-comparison" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 6.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Mixed: simple for basic buys but complex for derivatives and steep learning curve", "sources": [ "https://www.finder.com/cryptocurrency/exchanges/bybit-review" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 2.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. Profound dissatisfaction with slow, scripted responses and prolonged fund freezes", "sources": [ "https://nz.trustpilot.com/review/www.bybit.eu?page=4" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 0.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "not available to US users. ", "sources": [ "https://www.bybit.com/en/help-center/article/Service-Restricted-Countries" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×5.0 + 0.167×5.0 + 0.167×6.9 + 0.167×6.0 + 0.167×2.0 + 0.167×0.0 = 4.15 → 41.5%", "facts": { "incidents": [ { "date": "2025-02", "type": "customer_funds_loss", "summary": "~$1.4B ETH/stETH stolen from cold wallet via compromised Safe{Wallet} UI (Lazarus); covered from reserves", "customers_reimbursed": true, "sources": [ { "url": "https://cryptoexid.com/en/research/security-incident-database/", "type": "third_party", "as_of": "2026-10-10", "says": "Customers reimbursed: Yes" }, { "url": "https://cryptouniversity.network/guides/biggest-crypto-exchange-hacks-history", "type": "third_party", "as_of": "2026-10-10" } ] } ], "fees_notes": "Spot crypto pairs VIP 0; fiat-crypto 0.15/0.20", "price": null, "regulation": null, "insurance": null, "hq": null, "us": false, "us_note": null, "regions": "Excluded: US, mainland China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Canada, North Korea, Cuba, Iran, Uzbekistan and others" } }, { "name": "Revolut", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 39.8, "data_coverage_pct": 50, "limited_data": true, "eligible_for_pick": false, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [ { "date": "2022-09", "type": "data breach" } ], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": null, "imputed_score": 2.9, "basis": "not found", "sources": [] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, 0 data breach (2022-09, >48 months, no customer funds lost)", "sources": [ "https://techcrunch.com/2022/09/20/revolut-cyberattack-thousands-exposed/" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": null, "imputed_score": 5.0, "basis": "not found", "sources": [] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 6.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. Mixed feedback on app convenience vs crypto trading costs and technical issues", "sources": [ "https://www.trustpilot.com/review/www.revolut.com" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 3.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Frequent complaints about poor customer service, account locks, and lack of real human support", "sources": [ "https://www.reddit.com/r/Revolut/comments/1h7c462/do_not_do_crypto_with_revolut_plus_their_customer" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": null, "imputed_score": 0.0, "basis": "not found", "sources": [] } ], "score_math": "0.167×2.9* + 0.167×7.0 + 0.167×5.0* + 0.167×6.0 + 0.167×3.0 + 0.167×0.0* = 3.98 → 39.8% (* unknown, imputed)", "facts": { "incidents": [ { "date": "2022-09", "type": "data_breach", "summary": "Cyberattack exposed personal data of ~50,150 customers; no funds stolen", "sources": [ { "url": "https://techcrunch.com/2022/09/20/revolut-cyberattack-thousands-exposed/", "type": "third_party", "as_of": "2026-10-11" } ] } ], "fees_notes": null, "price": null, "regulation": null, "insurance": null, "hq": "United Kingdom", "us": null, "us_note": null, "regions": null } }, { "name": "Bithumb", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 39.2, "data_coverage_pct": 83, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [ { "date": "2019-03", "type": "customer funds loss >48 months ago" } ], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": null, "imputed_score": 2.9, "basis": "not found", "sources": [] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 4.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, −3 customer funds loss (2019-03)", "sources": [ "https://cryptoexid.com/en/research/security-incident-database/" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.6, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "487 assets (KRW-market assets (official ticker API)); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://api.bithumb.com/public/ticker/ALL_KRW" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 6.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "User-friendly interface but frequent outages and errors disrupt trading", "sources": [ "https://cointelegraph.com/rankings/crypto-exchanges/exchange/bithumb" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 3.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. Multiple user complaints about unresponsive and poor quality support", "sources": [ "https://ca.trustpilot.com/review/bithumb.com?page=2" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 0.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "not available to US users. ", "sources": [ "https://brokerrank.net/broker/bithumb/usa" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×2.9* + 0.167×4.0 + 0.167×7.6 + 0.167×6.0 + 0.167×3.0 + 0.167×0.0 = 3.92 → 39.2% (* unknown, imputed)", "facts": { "incidents": [ { "date": "2019-03", "type": "customer_funds_loss", "summary": "~$19M insider-linked EOS/XRP theft", "customers_reimbursed": true, "sources": [ { "url": "https://cryptoexid.com/en/research/security-incident-database/", "type": "third_party", "as_of": "2026-10-10" } ] } ], "fees_notes": null, "price": null, "regulation": null, "insurance": null, "hq": "Seoul, South Korea", "us": false, "us_note": null, "regions": null } }, { "name": "WazirX", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 35.8, "data_coverage_pct": 83, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": false, "customer_funds_hack": { "date": "2024-07", "summary": "~$235M stolen from multisig wallet (Liminal setup); restructuring with partial payouts", "months_ago": 27, "reimbursed": false }, "incident_notes": [], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": null, "imputed_score": 2.9, "basis": "not found", "sources": [] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 4.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, −3 customer funds loss (2024-07)", "sources": [ "https://cryptouniversity.network/guides/biggest-crypto-exchange-hacks-history" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 6.6, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "224 assets (Distinct base assets with status 'trading' (official exchangeInfo API)); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://api.wazirx.com/sapi/v1/exchangeInfo" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 6.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Mixed feedback on interface and deposit issues despite some positive notes", "sources": [ "https://www.forbes.com/advisor/in/investing/cryptocurrency/wazirx-exchange-review" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 2.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. Overwhelming user complaints about poor, unresponsive, and unhelpful customer support", "sources": [ "https://www.trustpilot.com/review/wazirx.com?page=3" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 0.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "not available to US users. US clients not permitted; trading partially suspended", "sources": [ "https://cryptogeek.info/pt/compare-exchanges/upbit-vs-wazirx" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×2.9* + 0.167×4.0 + 0.167×6.6 + 0.167×6.0 + 0.167×2.0 + 0.167×0.0 = 3.58 → 35.8% (* unknown, imputed)", "facts": { "incidents": [ { "date": "2024-07", "type": "customer_funds_loss", "summary": "~$235M stolen from multisig wallet (Liminal setup); restructuring with partial payouts", "customers_reimbursed": false, "sources": [ { "url": "https://cryptouniversity.network/guides/biggest-crypto-exchange-hacks-history", "type": "third_party", "as_of": "2026-10-10", "says": "Restructuring with partial payouts" } ] } ], "fees_notes": null, "price": null, "regulation": null, "insurance": null, "hq": "India", "us": false, "us_note": "US clients not permitted; trading partially suspended", "regions": null } }, { "name": "Binance", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 35.3, "data_coverage_pct": 100, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [ { "date": "2019-05", "type": "customer funds loss >48 months ago" }, { "date": "2023-11", "type": "Regulatory: Pleaded guilty to BSA/AML, unlicensed money transmitting and sanctions (IEEPA) violations; $4.3B penalties; founder CZ pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 4 months", "regulatory": true, "source": "https://www.justice.gov/criminal/case/united-states-v-changpeng-zhao" } ], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 5.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base taker fee (highest reported) 0.1% vs lowest in comparison 0.0%. Spot, Regular user; 0.075% when paying fees in BNB", "sources": [ "https://axis-intelligence.com/crypto-exchange-fees/" ] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 3.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, +1 proof of reserves, −3 customer funds loss (2019-05), −2 criminal plea (2023-11)", "sources": [ "https://cryptoexid.com/en/research/security-incident-database/", "https://www.justice.gov/criminal/case/united-states-v-changpeng-zhao", "https://coinvetted.com/learn/crypto-exchange-fee-transparency-report-2026" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.2, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "350 assets (None); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://en.coinotag.com/guide/crypto-exchange-comparison" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 4.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "UI described as difficult to navigate and overwhelming, especially for beginners", "sources": [ "https://www.finder.com/cryptocurrency/exchanges/binance-exchange-review" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 2.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Consistent complaints about poor, slow, unresponsive customer support and verification issues", "sources": [ "https://revieweek.com/binance-complaints" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 0.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "not available to US users. Global exchange does not serve US; US users use separate Binance.US", "sources": [ "https://www.mexc.com/learn/article/best-crypto-exchange-alternatives-2026-are-you-paying-24x-too-much-to-trade-/1" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×5.0 + 0.167×3.0 + 0.167×7.2 + 0.167×4.0 + 0.167×2.0 + 0.167×0.0 = 3.53 → 35.3%", "facts": { "incidents": [ { "date": "2019-05", "type": "customer_funds_loss", "summary": "7,000 BTC (~$40M) hot-wallet breach; covered", "customers_reimbursed": true, "sources": [ { "url": "https://cryptoexid.com/en/research/security-incident-database/", "type": "third_party", "as_of": "2026-10-10" } ] } ], "fees_notes": "Spot, Regular user; 0.075% when paying fees in BNB", "price": null, "regulation": null, "insurance": null, "hq": null, "us": false, "us_note": "Global exchange does not serve US; US users use separate Binance.US", "regions": null } }, { "name": "Upbit", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 33.5, "data_coverage_pct": 83, "limited_data": false, "eligible_for_pick": true, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [ { "date": "2025-11", "type": "hacked, customers reimbursed" }, { "date": "2019-11", "type": "customer funds loss >48 months ago" } ], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": null, "imputed_score": 2.9, "basis": "not found", "sources": [] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 1.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, −3 customer funds loss (2025-11), −3 customer funds loss (2019-11)", "sources": [ "https://www.coindesk.com/markets/2025/11/28/upbit-reveals-5-9b-won-corporate-loss-in-latest-hack-fully-reimburses-users", "https://cryptoexid.com/en/research/security-incident-database/" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 7.2, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "361 assets (Distinct listed assets across KRW/BTC/USDT markets (official market API)); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://api.upbit.com/v1/market/all" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 6.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Mixed user feedback on interface and verification process", "sources": [ "https://apps.apple.com/sg/app/upbit-global/id1439527412" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 3.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Customer reviews (Trustpilot), may skew positive. Users report slow, unhelpful, and nearly non-existent customer support", "sources": [ "https://www.trustpilot.com/review/upbit.com" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 0.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "not available to US users. ", "sources": [ "https://brokerrank.net/broker/upbit/usa" ] } ], "score_math": "0.167×2.9* + 0.167×1.0 + 0.167×7.2 + 0.167×6.0 + 0.167×3.0 + 0.167×0.0 = 3.35 → 33.5% (* unknown, imputed)", "facts": { "incidents": [ { "date": "2025-11", "type": "customer_funds_loss", "summary": "~44.5B won (~$30M) Solana hot-wallet theft; 38.6B won member losses fully covered from Upbit reserves", "customers_reimbursed": true, "sources": [ { "url": "https://www.coindesk.com/markets/2025/11/28/upbit-reveals-5-9b-won-corporate-loss-in-latest-hack-fully-reimburses-users", "type": "third_party", "as_of": "2026-10-10" } ] }, { "date": "2019-11", "type": "customer_funds_loss", "summary": "342,000 ETH (~$49M) hot-wallet theft; covered", "customers_reimbursed": true, "sources": [ { "url": "https://cryptoexid.com/en/research/security-incident-database/", "type": "third_party", "as_of": "2026-10-10" } ] } ], "fees_notes": null, "price": null, "regulation": null, "insurance": null, "hq": "South Korea", "us": false, "us_note": null, "regions": null } }, { "name": "Coincheck", "category": "Exchange", "vaultrubric_score_pct": 33.2, "data_coverage_pct": 67, "limited_data": true, "eligible_for_pick": false, "customer_funds_hack": null, "incident_notes": [ { "date": "2018-01", "type": "customer funds loss >48 months ago" } ], "criteria": [ { "key": "fees", "label": "Fees", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": null, "imputed_score": 2.9, "basis": "not found", "sources": [] }, { "key": "security", "label": "Security & track record", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 5.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "base 7, +1 regulation/licensing cited, −3 customer funds loss (2018-01)", "sources": [ "https://cryptoexid.com/en/research/security-incident-database/" ] }, { "key": "coins", "label": "Supported coins", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 4.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "26 assets (Assets in official exchange_status API); log-scaled vs max 3,600", "sources": [ "https://coincheck.com/api/exchange_status" ] }, { "key": "ease_of_use", "label": "Ease of use", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 6.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Mixed user feedback on interface and functionality", "sources": [ "https://www.bitdegree.org/crypto/coincheck-review" ] }, { "key": "support", "label": "Customer support", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": 2.0, "imputed_score": null, "basis": "Poor customer service and slow response times reported", "sources": [ "https://www.reddit.com/r/JapanFinance/comments/15b47qx/frustrations_with_coincheck_any_better_options" ] }, { "key": "us_availability", "label": "US availability/regulation", "weight": 0.1667, "score_out_of_10": null, "imputed_score": 0.0, "basis": "not found", "sources": [] } ], "score_math": "0.167×2.9* + 0.167×5.0 + 0.167×4.0 + 0.167×6.0 + 0.167×2.0 + 0.167×0.0* = 3.32 → 33.2% (* unknown, imputed)", "facts": { "incidents": [ { "date": "2018-01", "type": "customer_funds_loss", "summary": "~$530M NEM hot-wallet breach; users repaid in yen", "customers_reimbursed": true, "sources": [ { "url": "https://cryptoexid.com/en/research/security-incident-database/", "type": "third_party", "as_of": "2026-10-10" } ] } ], "fees_notes": null, "price": null, "regulation": [ "Japan crypto-asset exchange service provider, Kanto Finance Bureau No. 00014", "Type 1 Financial Instruments Business, Kanto FIBO No. 3540" ], "insurance": null, "hq": "Japan", "us": null, "us_note": null, "regions": null } } ] }