Since the inception of Bitcoin in 2009, the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, several crypto exchanges have risen and become well-known. Today, there are over 16,000 cryptocurrencies in circulation, led by bitcoin. Amidst all these, it is important to understand what a cryptocurrency exchange is and what it takes to start one. In this article, we will be covering the introduction to a cryptocurrency exchange and a general overview of what to expect before starting a crypto exchange. Visit https://blynex.com/ for more information about crypto.
Introduction to Cryptocurrency Exchange
A cryptocurrency exchange is an online platform hosted by companies or other entities that allows users to purchase and sell cryptocurrency. When cryptocurrency was first introduced, it was a hassle — you had to manually enter a command in a terminal to send a coin to someone. Eventually, user interfaces were designed that made it easier to access cryptocurrency. Realizing that cryptocurrency could only make a mainstream appearance by making it less technical for average users, developers created exchanges that hosted services for people interested in owning and transacting in crypto. This is similar to the way some other trading platforms work — you create an account where you can order different things and decide to sell them off. It’s basically the same thing.
However, as simple as it sounds, it is also complex.
There are two types of Cryptocurrency Exchanges — Centralized and Decentralized Cryptocurrency Exchanges.
Centralized cryptocurrency exchanges
Centralized cryptocurrency exchanges act as an intermediary between a buyer and a seller and make money through commissions and transaction fees. CEX is similar to a stock exchange but for digital assets. Examples are Binance, Kraken and Coinbase Exchange.
Decentralized cryptocurrency exchanges
A decentralized exchange is another type of exchange that allows peer-to-peer transactions directly from your digital wallet without going through an intermediary. Examples of DEXs include, PancakeSwap, Uniswap and Kyber.
Overview of What to Expect when Starting your Cryptocurrency Exchange
- Budget and Associated Costs
Before you start a cryptocurrency exchange project, you should have a good idea of how much it will cost. There are two ways to start a crypto exchange; you can either build one from scratch or use a white-label solution. Your budget is one of the factors that will determine which path you would take.
Builiding a crypto exchange from scratch will require at least $135,000 to be built and put on the market. This includes the cost of technology, hosting, initial legal advice, registering with the government, and advertising at the start. A white label solution might be lesser but it depends on the platform you are registering with. You can read the article about white label cryptocurrency exchange cost.
Also, another factor to consider would be time. Building a cryptocurrency exchange business from the ground up can take approximately 10-12 months, while you can start with a white-label solution in a matter of days.
Ultimately, the path you take will depend on your objectives for the platform.
- Legal Compliance
Before you put any plan into action, you want to ensure you’re not violating any laws or treading outside of regulatory guidelines. As a result, it is important to speak with a lawyer to determine the rules for your new business. Exchanges usually have to follow Know Your Customer (KYC) rules, which are becoming more common to stop money laundering. This is because exchanges are a type of currency exchange. In the U.S., these rules have been in place since 2002, when the Patriot Act was passed. Different areas have different rules, so speak with a legal attorney who knows the business.
- Security Measures
Numerous reports have been given regarding data breaches in the crypto industry. Just as any other trading platforms, you can expect cybercrimes an attacks, hence the need to employ security measures. Two-factor authentication (2FA), cold storage, and regular audits all offer practical protection against security threats. Take every possible measure against risk by pairing these security features with a reliable third-party custodial integration like Fire Blocks, BitGo, or Anchorage Digital.
Starting a secure crypto exchange is no easy task. However by knowing what to expect, you can bridge the knowledge gap. It is very important to do your research well before venturing into a cryptocurrency exchange business.
