What is EXMO?
EXMO is a centralized cryptocurrency exchange launched in 2014 by Russian entrepreneurs Ivan Petuhovski and Pavel Lerner, designed to provide a user-friendly platform for trading over 70 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Ripple (XRP), Cardano (ADA), and its native EXMO Coin (EXM). Operating primarily from Lithuania with a secondary office in Poland, EXMO serves over 2 million registered users across 200 countries, with a daily trading volume of approximately $60 million, ranking among the top 40 exchanges on CoinGecko. The platform supports 155 trading pairs, including crypto-to-crypto and crypto-to-fiat transactions (USD, EUR, PLN, UAH, NGN, BRL), and is known for its accessibility, particularly for Ukrainian traders due to UAH fiat on-ramps.
EXMO offers a range of trading options, including spot trading, margin trading with up to 10x leverage for select pairs, and an over-the-counter (OTC) desk for institutional trades exceeding $100,000. Its Simple Trade feature enables instant crypto purchases with a few clicks, ideal for beginners, while advanced traders benefit from real-time charts, order books, and API access (public and private). The EXMO Earn program allows users to earn up to 7% APY on USDT and USDC, with boosted rates (up to 65% for new users) for holding EXM tokens, which also provide up to 100% trading fee discounts via Premium packages. The mobile app, available on iOS and Android, integrates LedgerVault technology for secure wallet storage and supports multiple order types (market, stop, limit). Payment methods include bank cards, SEPA, SWIFT, and EXMO Gift Cards for peer-to-peer transfers.
Security is a focal point, with EXMO employing 2FA, cold storage for most funds, IP whitelisting, and regular security audits. The platform uses LedgerVault and complies with KYC and AML regulations, being a member of TRUST (Travel Rule Universal Solution Technology). However, EXMO’s history includes a 2017 DDoS attack (no funds lost) and a 2020 hack losing 5% of assets ($4 million), with some funds withdrawn via Poloniex, though recovery efforts were made. Regulatory challenges led to EXMO exiting Russia, Belarus, and Kazakhstan in 2022, and services are unavailable in the U.S., UK, China, Japan, and sanctioned countries like Syria and North Korea. User reviews are mixed: some praise low fees (0.1% maker-taker) and simplicity, while others report past downtime and withdrawal delays. Recent X posts highlight market updates (e.g., Bitcoin hitting $90K) and partnerships like Widzew Łódź, but a 2017 kidnapping of director Pavel Lerner (released after $1 million ransom) raises historical safety concerns. For traders seeking low-cost, fiat-supported trading with a focus on Eastern Europe, EXMO is a solid choice, but its security history and regulatory restrictions require caution.
What are the trading fees on EXMO?
EXMO charges a tier-based trading fee structure, starting at 0.1% for both makers and takers for monthly trading volumes below $100, decreasing to as low as -0.05% (maker) and 0.05% (taker) for volumes exceeding $20 million. Users can purchase CashBack plans or hold EXM tokens for up to 100% fee discounts via Premium packages. Deposits are free for SEPA transfers but incur fees for other methods (e.g., 3.99% + $0.35 for USD credit card deposits). Withdrawal fees vary by coin (e.g., 0.0004 BTC for Bitcoin, below the industry average). Users should verify rates on EXMO’s fee schedule for specific pairs and payment methods.
Does EXMO offer leverage trading?
Yes, EXMO offers margin trading with up to 10x leverage for select cryptocurrency pairs, such as Hyperliquid, available in certain countries. Leverage trading is not as extensive as platforms like WOO X (up to 100x), and availability is restricted in regions like the U.S. and UK due to regulatory limits. High leverage carries significant risks, including potential liquidation, and traders should use stop-loss orders to manage exposure.
