Crypto exchanges that issue their governance tokens for various purposes. This guide offers insights into what exchange coins and tokens are, their unique features, examples, and challenges in this guide.
What are Exchange Coins and Tokens?
Exchange coins are cryptocurrencies issued directly by exchanges. Holders can use them to redeem prizes through staking, pay for trading expenses at a cheaper rate, and gain access to special features and services or other benefits.
Comparatively, exchange tokens are also issued by exchanges but are created on an existing blockchain like Ethereum. While the primary uses are similar to exchange coins, tokens are technically different because they rely on a host blockchain, not their own.
Key Functions of Exchange Coins and Tokens
Both digital assets offer several benefits to their holders.
Discounts on Trading Fees
Reducing trading fees is among the most common applications of exchange coins and tokens. For example, holders may pay trading fees on Binance at a discounted rate with Binance Coin (BNB). For consistent traders, such discounts can save a lot of money.
Reward for Staking
Many exchanges include staking schemes for holders to lock down their coins or tokens for extra rewards. Thus, such holders can keep their assets for longer lengths of time.
Obtaining Access to Exclusive Features
Various features and services can only be accessed by holders of exchange coins. These could be first-class customer service, early access to the listings of new tokens, or involvement in Initial Exchange Offerings (IEOs).
Participation in Governance
Certain exchange tokens allow their holders to vote on crucial choices impacting the platform. This can be casting votes for the inclusion of new tokens, modifications to fee schedules, or new features. As a result, the exchange’s interests and those of its users are aligned.
Token Burn Mechanisms
Some exchanges burn some of their tokens regularly to control supply and raise the value of their coins. Thus, such tokens become more valuable to their holders.
Popular Exchange Coins and Tokens
Numerous tokens and exchange coins have become very popular in the market.
KuCoin Token (KCS)
The KuCoin exchange is the issuer of the ERC-20 token KCS. It reduces trading fees and is part of the KuCoin Bonus Plan, which entitles KCS holders to a portion of the exchange’s profits.
Huobi Token (HT)
In addition to letting holders vote on governance issues, HT provides trading fee savings on the Huobi exchange. The platform also has a burn mechanism process to limit supply.
OKB
OKB was moved to the OKT Chain from its original ERC-20 coin. Holder benefits include discounts on trading fees.
Investment Potential of Exchange Coins and Tokens
Exchange coin and token investments can be profitable for many reasons
Monetary
Discounts on trading fees and prizes for staking give holders immediate financial advantages.
Token Burns
The value of the remaining tokens may rise due to a deflationary impact caused by the regular burning of tokens.
Governance Rights
Tokens with governance rights can be attractive to investors who wish to have a say in how the platform develops in the future. Users may feel more committed to one another and the community due to this participative feature.
Increasing Usability
Some coins are becoming more widely accepted as a payment method in addition to their primary functions inside the exchange. For instance, BNB’s usefulness extends outside the Binance platform since several retailers recognize it via payment processors.
Challenges and Considerations
Despite their many benefits, exchange coins and tokens also have their drawbacks.
Crypto market volatility
As do all cryptocurrencies, exchange coins, and tokens are prone to large price swings.
Regulatory risks
The cryptocurrency regulatory landscape is continually changing. Consequently, the value and utility of exchange coins and tokens can be affected by such changes.
Dependence on the Exchange
These assets’ utility and worth are directly correlated with the performance of the issuing exchange. Any problems, including security lapses or difficulties with regulations, can adversely impact the value of the exchange’s coin or token.
Final Thoughts
Exchange coins and tokens are becoming a fast-growing sub-niche in the broader crypto market. These digital assets are a desirable alternative for many investors despite their risks.