HTX: What Is It, Is It Safe, and Could It Be a Scam?

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HTX, formerly known as Huobi, is one of the longest-standing cryptocurrency exchanges in the digital asset industry. Founded in 2013 and originally based in China, the platform has since relocated its headquarters to Singapore to adapt to evolving regulatory landscapes. Over the years, HTX has built a global presence by offering a wide range of trading services, including spot trading, futures, margin trading, and OTC solutions.

This article explores HTX’s core features, security protocols, regulatory status, user experience, and past controversies—helping you determine whether HTX is a trustworthy platform or poses potential risks.

Core Features of HTX

HTX operates as a centralized exchange (CEX), meaning it acts as an intermediary between buyers and sellers of cryptocurrencies. The platform supports multiple trading interfaces:

The exchange lists major cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Ripple (XRP), and Bitcoin Cash (BCH), along with hundreds of altcoins and newly launched tokens. This variety allows traders to diversify their portfolios and access emerging projects early.

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Regulatory Compliance and Licensing

HTX claims compliance with several international financial regulators, including:

These affiliations suggest efforts toward regulatory adherence, although some designations may reflect registration for anti-money laundering (AML) purposes rather than full operational licensing in those jurisdictions. Users should verify whether HTX holds active licenses in their country of residence before depositing funds.

Security Measures: How Safe Is HTX?

Security is a top priority for any crypto exchange. HTX implements several industry-standard protections:

🔐 Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

All user accounts support 2FA via authenticator apps like Google Authenticator or SMS verification. This adds an essential layer of defense against unauthorized logins.

🧊 Cold Storage for Digital Assets

The majority of user funds are stored in offline cold wallets, significantly reducing exposure to online hacking attempts. Only a small portion of assets remains in hot wallets for daily transactions.

🛡️ System Monitoring & Regular Audits

HTX conducts routine system scans and third-party security audits to detect vulnerabilities. Proactive monitoring helps maintain platform integrity and respond quickly to potential threats.

Despite these measures, no exchange is entirely immune to risk—especially given the platform’s history of scrutiny.

Supported Cryptocurrencies and Trading Pairs

HTX offers extensive market coverage with support for:

New listings are frequently added through official token launches and Initial Exchange Offerings (IEOs), giving users early access to promising blockchain projects.

Trading pairs include both crypto-to-crypto and select fiat-on-ramp options depending on region. Availability varies based on local regulations and banking partnerships.

How to Create an HTX Account

Opening an account on HTX involves six straightforward steps:

  1. Visit the official website and click “Sign Up.” Enter your email address and create a strong password.
  2. Verify your email by clicking the confirmation link sent to your inbox.
  3. Provide personal details, including full name and country of residence for KYC compliance.
  4. Enable 2FA using an authentication app or SMS for added security.
  5. Complete identity verification by uploading government-issued ID and proof of address.
  6. Start trading once your account is approved—explore spot markets, futures, or OTC services.

Note: Verification times may vary depending on document quality and regional requirements.

Fees and Transaction Costs

HTX uses a tiered fee structure based on 30-day trading volume:

Higher-volume traders benefit from reduced rates.

Deposit fees are generally free across most cryptocurrencies, though network transaction fees may apply. Withdrawal fees vary by coin and can be checked directly on the platform.

Fiat deposits via bank transfer, credit/debit card, or third-party processors are available in supported regions.

Deposit and Withdrawal Options

Users can deposit funds in two primary ways:

Withdrawals follow similar paths:

Processing times depend on network congestion and method used. Crypto transactions typically settle within minutes, while fiat withdrawals may take 1–3 business days.

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Controversies and Trust Concerns

While HTX has maintained operations for over a decade, it has faced notable challenges:

Allegations of Wash Trading (2019)

A report accused HTX of inflating trading volumes through wash trading—executing fake trades to appear more active than it is. Such practices mislead investors about liquidity and market depth.

Criticism Over IEO Projects

HTX promoted several high-profile IEOs that later underperformed or failed to deliver promised utilities. Critics argue the platform lacked sufficient due diligence when selecting projects, raising concerns about investor protection.

Regulatory Scrutiny in China (2020)

Chinese authorities investigated HTX for facilitating illegal crypto transactions amid tightening national regulations. Although the company moved overseas, this incident highlighted compliance risks associated with operating across borders.

These events have impacted public trust, underscoring the importance of independent research before investing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is HTX the same as Huobi?

Yes. HTX is the rebranded name of Huobi Global, reflecting a strategic shift in branding while maintaining existing services.

Is HTX safe to use in 2025?

HTX employs strong security practices like cold storage and 2FA. However, past controversies mean users should exercise caution, use secure passwords, and consider withdrawing funds after trading.

Does HTX require KYC verification?

Yes. All users must complete identity verification (KYC) to comply with global AML regulations before accessing full trading features.

Can I trade with leverage on HTX?

Yes. HTX offers margin trading with up to 5x leverage on select pairs through its futures platform.

Are there withdrawal limits on HTX?

Yes. Daily withdrawal limits vary based on verification level and security settings. Higher-tier accounts enjoy increased limits after completing advanced KYC.

Has HTX ever been hacked?

There have been no publicly confirmed major breaches resulting in fund loss in recent years. The platform attributes this to robust security infrastructure.

Final Thoughts: Should You Use HTX?

HTX remains a prominent player in the crypto exchange space with solid technical capabilities and broad market access. Its long track record, multilingual support, and diverse product suite make it appealing to both novice and experienced traders.

However, historical controversies around transparency and regulation suggest the need for vigilance. Always practice sound security habits—use hardware wallets for long-term storage, enable all available protections, and stay informed about regulatory developments.

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