Poloniex Review 2023

By CryptoAffiliate.io

Updated

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Poloniex is a cryptocurrency exchange that has gained popularity due to its low trading fees and wide range of supported cryptocurrencies. With over 400 listed coins, the platform offers a comprehensive trading experience for cryptocurrency enthusiasts of varying levels. Poloniex provides services such as margin trading and lending, allowing users to maximize their returns.

In the past, Poloniex was considered one of the largest Ethereum exchanges by volume, and it consistently ranks within the top twenty exchanges concerning overall trading volume. Despite its success, the exchange has faced some challenges, such as hacking incidents and slow customer support. This review will take an in-depth look at Poloniex to help users decide if it is the right choice for their trading needs.

Key Takeaways

  • Poloniex offers low fees and a diverse range of cryptocurrencies for trading.
  • The platform provides additional services like margin trading and lending.
  • It has faced some security issues and slow customer support in the past.

Poloniex History

Poloniex, a cryptocurrency exchange platform, was founded in January 2014 by Tristan D’Agosta. The platform quickly gained popularity among traders due to its wide range of supported cryptocurrencies, advanced trading features, and low trading fees.

In 2016, Poloniex experienced a significant setback as it fell victim to a major hack, which resulted in the loss of approximately 12.3% of its Bitcoin holdings. To mitigate the impact on its users, Poloniex implemented a strategy of proportionally reducing customers’ account balances and offered a repayment plan to reimburse the affected users.

Despite the hacking incident, Poloniex continued to expand its features and customer base. In 2018, it became a subsidiary of M/s. Polo Digital Assets Limited. The company continued to improve its trading platform by introducing new services such as margin trading support, margin lending support, and launching its IEO (Initial Exchange Offering) platform.

However, Poloniex faced some regulatory challenges. In 2019, the exchange announced it would no longer cater to US customers in order to meet the evolving regulatory standards of their parent company, Circle Internet Financial Limited. This decision led Poloniex to focus on its international market, which enabled it to broaden its scope and enhance its platform features.

Today, Poloniex is considered one of the top cryptocurrency exchanges in the market, offering a wide array of cryptocurrencies, low fees, and multiple trading options for both novice and experienced traders. The exchange continues to enhance its platform and aims to deliver a robust and secure trading experience for its users worldwide.

Account Registration

KYC Verification

To register an account on Poloniex, users must first provide their name, email address, and date of birth for the initial verification process. Poloniex follows know-your-customer (KYC) procedures to ensure the platform’s integrity and to comply with regulatory requirements. Users need to complete the KYC verification process prior to trading on Poloniex. This involves submitting identification documents, such as a government-issued ID and proof of residency, which are subject to review and approval.

Email and Password Setup

Once the initial information is provided, users will receive a confirmation email to the registered email address. They must follow the instructions in the email to verify their account. After verifying their email address, users can set up a password for their Poloniex account. It is recommended to create a strong and unique password, combining upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters, to ensure the account’s security.

In addition to the standard account registration, Poloniex offers a decentralized exchange (DEX) feature called Poloni DEX. Users can access this DEX for trading without any KYC requirements. However, the main Poloniex platform requires the completion of the KYC verification process for access to all trading features and account services.

Overview of the Trading Platform

User Interface

Poloniex is a centralized cryptocurrency exchange that offers a user-friendly interface for both amateur and experienced traders. With over 400 supported cryptocurrencies, the platform presents a convenient trading environment. The interface has been designed for seamless navigation and a clean, organized layout to facilitate easy trading. Some key aspects of the interface allow for advanced trade types, margin trading, and crypto lending.

Although trading volume on Poloniex is not as high as some of its competitors, the platform still manages to hold a respectable position within the industry. It provides efficient tools and resources for users who wish to explore and trade across a range of crypto markets, offering a comprehensive and accessible trading experience.

Mobile App

Poloniex has developed a mobile app that is highly functional, making it possible for traders to access their accounts and execute trades right from their smartphones or tablets. The mobile app caters to both iOS and Android devices, offering the same advanced features as the web interface. It is designed keeping the ease of use in mind, so users can access all necessary tools and resources with just a few taps.

With the Poloniex mobile app, users can stay up-to-date on market trends and manage their trading activities even when they’re on the go. This added level of convenience makes Poloniex a preferred choice for many traders in the cryptocurrency market.

Deposit and Withdrawal Process

Deposit Funds

Depositing funds into a Poloniex account is relatively simple. Users can deposit a variety of cryptocurrencies, but they cannot directly deposit fiat currency like USD, EUR, or GBP. To deposit cryptocurrency, follow these steps:

  1. Go to the ‘Balances’ section of the Poloniex platform
  2. Select ‘Deposits & Withdrawals’
  3. Choose the desired cryptocurrency
  4. Click ‘Deposit’ to generate a wallet address

Once you get the wallet address, you can use it to transfer the chosen cryptocurrency from an external wallet or another exchange. Keep in mind that each cryptocurrency requires a unique wallet address, so ensure you are using the correct one.

For users who want to deposit fiat currency, they can purchase cryptocurrency with credit or debit cards using a third-party service such as Simplex. However, be aware that there is a 3.5% fee or a $10 minimum for each transaction.

Withdraw Funds

Withdrawing funds from a Poloniex account is also quite straightforward. Just like the deposit process, users can only withdraw funds in the form of cryptocurrency. To withdraw, follow these steps:

  1. Go to the ‘Balances’ section of the platform
  2. Select ‘Deposits & Withdrawals’
  3. Choose the desired cryptocurrency
  4. Click ‘Withdraw’

A pop-up window will appear, asking you to input the wallet address you want to send the funds to. Additionally, you need to specify the withdrawal amount. Once the information is confirmed, the funds will be sent to the provided wallet address. Remember to double-check the address, as transactions are irreversible.

Please note that withdrawal fees vary depending on the cryptocurrency you choose to withdraw. Each coin has a particular network fee, which will be displayed at the time of withdrawal. Moreover, withdrawing funds to a fiat currency will require the use of a different platform or exchange, as Poloniex does not support direct fiat withdrawals.

Lending, Margin Trading and Spot Trading

At Poloniex, users can take advantage of various trading options such as lending, margin trading, and spot trading to enhance their cryptocurrency experience.

Lending on Poloniex allows users to earn interest on their holdings by lending their assets to other traders who utilize them for margin trades. Lenders set their own interest rates, duration, and amount of offered assets. The platform then automatically matches lenders with borrowers to facilitate the transaction. It’s a low-risk way to generate passive income from your cryptocurrency holdings.

Margin trading is another feature available on the Poloniex platform. It allows experienced traders to leverage their positions and potentially increase their profits. Traders can borrow funds from other users or the exchange to purchase more of a particular asset than their existing capital would allow. It’s essential to note that while margin trading can offer increased profits, it also involves greater risk as potential losses are magnified.

Poloniex offers a variety of leverage options depending on the traded asset. Traders should consider their risk tolerance and experience when selecting the appropriate leverage level.

Spot trading is the essential trading option available on Poloniex, where users can exchange one cryptocurrency for another at the current market price. It’s a straightforward and popular method of trading that doesn’t involve borrowing or lending. Spot trading is suitable for both experienced and amateur traders who want to exchange cryptocurrencies without the additional risks associated with margin trading.

In summary, Poloniex provides a diverse range of trading options, including lending, margin trading, and spot trading. Users can choose the trading method that best suits their experience, risk tolerance, and financial goals.

Trading Fees Structure

Maker and Taker Fees

Poloniex offers a competitive fee structure for its users. The platform implements a maker-taker fee model, which rewards market makers with lower trading fees while charging the takers slightly higher fees. The fees vary depending on the 30-day trading volume, with lower fees for traders with higher volumes.

Here’s a brief overview of the maker-taker fee structure:

30-Day Trading Volume (USD)Maker FeeTaker Fee
Less than $50,0000.155%0.155%
$50,000 – $1,000,0000.142%0.152%

For more detailed information regarding the fee structure, please visit the official Poloniex Fee Structure page.

Withdrawal Fees

Poloniex also has withdrawal fees that vary for each cryptocurrency. These fees are adjusted periodically to ensure they remain in line with the network transaction fees associated with each digital asset. Unlike trading fees, withdrawal fees do not depend on the individual’s trading volume or account type. You can find the current withdrawal fees for each supported asset on the Poloniex Fees page.

Overall, Poloniex offers low trading fees across all volume tiers, making it an attractive option for traders looking to minimize costs while participating in the cryptocurrency market.

Supported Cryptocurrencies

Poloniex is a renowned cryptocurrency exchange that offers an extensive list of supported cryptocurrencies to its users. With over 400 crypto assets available for trading, it has become a preferred platform for many traders worldwide. Among the top cryptocurrencies supported on Poloniex are Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Tron (TRX).

The platform allows users to access and trade a wide variety of tokens, catering to both popular and emerging crypto assets. In addition to the major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, users can also find lesser-known tokens that show potential in the market. This diversity in the availability of cryptocurrencies provides ample opportunities for traders to diversify their portfolios and discover new investment options.

CryptocurrencySymbol
BitcoinBTC
EthereumETH
TronTRX

Poloniex’s extensive support for numerous cryptocurrencies ensures that users can keep up with the latest trends and developments in the crypto world. The platform continuously updates its list of supported cryptocurrencies, enabling traders to access and invest in newly launched tokens in a timely manner.

The addition of new assets to the platform is generally based on various factors, including project reputation, market demand, and innovation. Thus, Poloniex ensures that the cryptocurrencies available on the platform meet specific standards, contributing to the overall user experience and trading capabilities.

In summary, Poloniex offers extensive support for a wide range of cryptocurrencies, enabling traders to access and invest in a diverse selection of crypto assets. With over 400 supported tokens, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Tron, the platform caters to the needs of traders with varying preferences and risk tolerance levels.

Security Measures and Hacks

Poloniex is a centralized cryptocurrency exchange that has taken various security measures to protect its users’ assets. One of the primary security features implemented by Poloniex is two-factor authentication (2FA). 2FA requires users to verify their identity using a secondary device or application, which significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access to their accounts.

In addition to 2FA, Poloniex has implemented other important security practices, such as safeguarding sensitive user data through advanced encryption techniques. To further protect users, the exchange uses cold storage to keep the majority of their digital assets offline. This approach minimizes the risk of online attacks, as a significant portion of the funds are stored securely away from the internet.

Despite these measures, Poloniex has experienced a major hack in the past. In 2014, a hacker managed to exploit a vulnerability in the platform and steal around 12.3% of the total Bitcoin on the exchange. The company swiftly addressed the issue by reimbursing its users for the stolen funds and implementing stricter security measures.

Subsequent to the incident, Poloniex has been continuously working to improve its security measures and regain the trust of its users. As a centralized exchange, it is important for Poloniex to maintain a robust security infrastructure to protect user assets against potential attacks.

In conclusion, Poloniex has learned from its past security breach and has put in place a series of security measures, including 2FA and cold storage, to provide a more secure trading environment for its users. While no platform can be completely immune to hacks, Poloniex’s continuous efforts to improve the platform’s security show its commitment to protecting its users’ assets.

Customer Service Experience

Poloniex is a cryptocurrency exchange platform that strives to provide satisfactory customer service to its users. Like many exchanges, they rely primarily on their customer support ticket system to address inquiries and resolve issues. Users can submit a support ticket through the platform’s website, and the customer service team works to respond promptly and efficiently.

While there is no direct phone number available for Poloniex customer support, the platform offers alternative methods to seek assistance. Users can access a comprehensive FAQ section on their website, which covers a wide range of topics. Additionally, the platform maintains a presence on various social media platforms such as Twitter and Reddit, where users can also seek help and engage with the community.

In terms of responsiveness, some users might find that the ticket-based system can lead to delays in obtaining assistance, as the support team manages a high volume of inquiries. However, Poloniex is continually working to improve its customer service experience and address concerns in a timely manner.

Safety and security are crucial aspects of any cryptocurrency exchange, and Poloniex makes user fund protection a priority. They store user funds offline in cold wallets, ensuring that assets remain secure from potential threats such as hacking or system failure.

Overall, Poloniex offers a variety of support channels for its users, including support tickets, an FAQ section, and a presence on social media platforms. The focus on safety and steps taken to improve the customer service experience demonstrates the exchange’s commitment to providing users with a trustworthy and efficient platform.

Regulation and Compliance

Poloniex is a cryptocurrency exchange that has experienced regulatory scrutiny in the past. In August 2021, the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) fined Poloniex, LLC for operating an unregistered securities exchange. The platform, originally based in Delaware, was operating without registering as a national securities exchange, nor did it have an exemption from registration.

Poloniex eventually changed its jurisdiction to Seychelles, distancing itself from the United States in terms of regulatory oversight. This move has allowed the platform to continue its operations without facing the stringent regulations that US-based exchanges must comply with.

In terms of anti-money laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) checks, Poloniex has implemented a sanctions compliance program since May 2015. This program involves reviewing KYC information for new customers in jurisdictions with comprehensive OFAC sanctions. However, it should be noted that existing customers at the time were not retroactively screened in the same manner.

In conclusion, Poloniex is a cryptocurrency exchange that operates with a focus on providing affordable trading fees and a wide variety of supported cryptocurrencies. While it has faced regulatory challenges in the past, the platform has adapted and implemented compliance measures to continue operating in the global market.

Conclusion

Poloniex is a cryptocurrency exchange that offers a wide range of services to its users. With low trading fees and support for over 400 cryptocurrencies, it has become a popular choice for many traders in the market. However, there are several factors to consider before making a decision about using Poloniex.

The platform provides various attractive features, such as margin trading support and margin lending support. In addition to this, users can begin trading by only providing their email, making the registration process simple and quick. However, it’s important to note that Poloniex does not support fiat currencies and it is an unregulated exchange.

A major concern when using any cryptocurrency exchange is the security of the platform. Poloniex has faced a hacking incident in the past, which raises concerns about its security measures. Furthermore, customers have reported that Poloniex’s customer support can be slow, causing frustration for users when they encounter issues.

In summary, Poloniex offers a wide range of cryptocurrencies and attractive trading features at low fees. However, potential users should weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Taking into account factors such as security and customer support availability are crucial when choosing an exchange for your cryptocurrency needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Poloniex fees compare to other exchanges?

Poloniex is known for its low trading fees, which makes it an attractive option for many cryptocurrency traders. The exchange employs a maker-taker fee model, varying according to the user’s 30-day trading volume. However, it is essential to note that fees for buying crypto on Poloniex can be higher than on other platforms. Always compare the fees with different exchanges before making a decision.

Is the Poloniex app user-friendly?

The Poloniex app is designed to provide an intuitive and user-friendly experience for traders, both beginners and advanced users. The interface is clean and easy to navigate, with features such as order books, charts, and trading pairs accessible in just a few taps. The app also includes balance tracking, order history, and alerts for price changes.

What are the withdrawal fees on Poloniex?

Withdrawal fees on Poloniex vary depending on the cryptocurrency being withdrawn. These fees are generally competitive and in line with other exchanges. For an updated list of withdrawal fees for specific cryptocurrencies, it is recommended to check directly on Poloniex’s website.

Where is Poloniex headquarters located?

Poloniex is based in the United States, with its headquarters located in Wilmington, Delaware. However, it’s important to note that Poloniex is an unregulated exchange, which may influence some users’ decisions when choosing a platform for trading.

Can US customers trade on Poloniex?

Yes, US customers can trade on Poloniex, but they are limited to specific trading pairs and services. Due to regulatory reasons, US-based traders may face restrictions on certain digital assets and margin trading. It’s essential to check the availability of specific trading pairs and services for US customers before using the platform.

How secure is the Poloniex wallet?

Poloniex’s security is considered average, scoring 9.5 out of a maximum of 20 points, as per CryptoCompare Exchange Benchmark Q4 2019. The platform employs several security measures, such as two-factor authentication (2FA), email confirmations for withdrawals, and monitoring of unusual activities. However, given the risks inherent in any online platform, users should always take appropriate precautions to safeguard their accounts and assets.

DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by CryptoAffiliate and while we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE: Kindly be aware that several links on CryptoAffiliate.io function as affiliate links. Should you click on these links and proceed to make a purchase from any of our partners, we may earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional expense to you.

At CryptoAffiliate.io, our team exclusively suggests products and services that align with our own preferences and that, in our assessment, will bring benefits to our readers. We strongly encourage you to conduct your own research and exercise informed judgment when making financial choices.