Crypto Exchange

A crypto exchange is an online platform that acts as a marketplace where users can buy, sell, and trade various cryptocurrencies. These platforms serve as a crucial gateway for individuals and institutions to participate in the digital asset economy.

There are primarily two types:

Centralized Exchanges (CEXs): The most common type, like Binance and Coinbase, these are operated by a company that acts as an intermediary. They hold custody of users’ funds, similar to a traditional bank, and facilitate trades through an order book system. CEXs often offer user-friendly interfaces, high liquidity, and features like margin trading and staking. They are subject to regulatory oversight, often requiring users to complete Know Your Customer (KYC) verification for Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance.
Decentralized Exchanges (DEXs): These platforms operate without a central authority, allowing peer-to-peer trading directly from users’ wallets via smart contracts on a blockchain. DEXs offer greater privacy and user control over funds, reducing the risk of hacks targeting centralized custodians. However, they can be less user-friendly and may have lower liquidity compared to CEXs.

For individuals in Surat interested in buying or selling Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other digital assets, a reputable crypto exchange is the primary avenue. In India, leading exchanges like CoinDCX and CoinSwitch (and potentially Coinbase, which recently gained FIU-IND registration and is reportedly in talks to acquire CoinDCX) comply with local regulations, including the 30% tax on crypto gains and 1% TDS on transactions. The choice of exchange often depends on factors like fees, security, available cryptocurrencies, and user experience.