Reasons To Use A Self-Custody Wallet
The simple reason why you should use self-custody crypto wallets is that they are the safer choice to store your funds. “Not your keys, not your crypto” is a common saying in the crypto space.
And not without good reason!
Unfortunately, bankruptcies of crypto companies are quite common. In fact, just in the course of the 2022 crypto bear market, the 9 largest bankruptcies have caused losses of more than $18 billion. So far, users have only received a small part of their funds back.
Also, centralized crypto service providers are major targets for hackers. At least 47 exchanges have lost funds due to cybersecurity breaches since 2012, causing a total loss of more than $3.17 billion.
While users cannot prevent bankruptcies or hacks they can secure their funds by storing them in a self-custody wallet which ensures they have total control.
When To Use A Custodial Wallet
Custodial wallets are the best choice for beginners who don’t have a lot of experience with blockchain technology. They usually are user-friendly and act as a gateway for newbies when it comes to basic things such as crypto trading.
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Another advantage is that custodial wallets on centralized platforms like Binance and Coinbase often give users easy access to advanced crypto functionalities such as leveraging and crypto staking.
Things To Consider When Choosing A Self-Custody Wallet
There are many self-custody crypto wallets available on the market. When it comes to choosing the right one, it is important to do your own research. Here are some important points to consider:
Self-Custody Wallet Features
How often will you use the wallet to send cryptos or perform other functions? As described above, some types of wallets make more sense depending on user behavior.
How many crypto assets does the wallet support? Will you be able to keep all your favorite coins/tokens/NFTs in it? Obviously, it’s a plus if you can keep all your assets in one place.
Does the self-custody wallet integrate with Web3 functions such as lending, staking, and borrowing to enable you to earn a passive income without using a centralized exchange?
Security
Do an in-depth check on the wallet’s history. Have there been hacks in the past or any other security-related issues?
How credible are the wallet’s developers? Do they have a good track record?
Is the code open-sourced or did the developers get a 3rd party to audit their code?
What do other users have to say about the self-custody wallet? Check out user reviews to learn more about their experience.
Things To Consider When Choosing A Custodial Wallet
The biggest advantage of custodial wallets is that they make many processes quick and convenient. There are also several things to consider when choosing custodial crypto wallets.
Pay attention to the following things:
Features
Easy access to the wallet and to its functions.
Many supported cryptocurrencies.
Many trading options and other functionalities.
Easy exchange of cryptocurrencies to Fiat currencies and easy cash-out process.
How high are fees for trading, exchanging, and withdrawals?
Security
Centralized services usually require thorough KYC (know your customer) and AML (anti-money laundering) processes before you can use them or before you can convert your cryptos into fiat currencies and cash them out. Depending on your location and the size of your funds, these processes can be very time-consuming and will require you to provide substantial personal information.
Research the service provider’s history. For example, have there been security issues in the past such as hacks or scams? In such cases, did users get reimbursed for lost funds?
If you are using an exchange, does it release information about its proof of reserves regularly? Is it audited by 3rd parties? Can users verify their balance in the exchange system? Does the exchange disclose its wallet addresses so that the balance can be checked by the public?
How does the custodial wallet provider secure users’ funds? What (certified) organizational processes and technological solutions are in place?
Regulations
Centralized crypto service providers such as exchanges face stricter regulations by the authorities. Make sure that the custodial wallet provider is properly registered with your local regulatory authority and that it has obtained relevant licenses to do business in your country.
