Navigating the world of cryptocurrency trading in the USA requires selecting the right platform, especially for those interested in leveraged trading. Leveraged trading allows investors to amplify their positions, potentially increasing profits but also risks.
It’s crucial to choose a reputable leverage trading exchange that offers robust security measures, user-friendly interfaces, and compliance with U.S. regulations. This guide explores the best leverage crypto exchanges in the USA, providing insights to help you make informed decisions in your trading journey.
Best US Crypto Exchanges With Leverage In 2025
#1. Bybit
Founded in March 2018, Bybit has made its mark in the crypto world specializing in leverage trading. When it comes to leveraging on spot markets, Bybit is notable for providing you with the opportunity to amplify your trading capacity.
Leverage on Spot Markets:
- Up to 100x leverage for certain pairs
Supported Coins for Margin Trading:
- Bybit supports a variety of coins for margin trading, with over 200 markets available for you to explore.
Fees Structure:
- Trading fees vary and are competitive, including maker and taker fees which are designed to encourage liquidity.
KYC Requirements:
- You are typically not required to complete know-your-customer (KYC) procedures for margin trading, offering you a level of privacy during the process.
Pros of Bybit:
- Robust trading platform with high leverage options
- Extensive range of markets and supported coins
- No mandatory KYC for margin trading
- User-friendly interface for both novice and experienced traders
Cons of Bybit:
- High leverage trading can be risky and is not suitable for all investors
- Regulatory uncertainty may impact future access and features
By engaging in margin trading with Bybit, you have access to powerful tools designed to enhance your trading experience. Despite the risks inherent in high leverage trading, Bybit provides a transparent fee structure and a platform that caters to various trader expertise levels.
#2. Phemex
Phemex, established in 2019, is a relatively new player in the crypto exchange arena but has carved a reputation for offering robust leverage trading options. As a trader, you have the opportunity to engage in leverage trading with up to 100x on certain products, allowing for considerable exposure to various cryptocurrencies.
When it comes to spot markets, Phemex distinguishes itself by allowing ample leverage. Leveraged trading can amplify both your gains and risks, so it is vital to approach it with a thorough understanding of the market.
In the realm of margin trading, Phemex supports a growing number of cryptocurrencies, enhancing your trading flexibility. Here’s a concise look at some key aspects of leverage trading on Phemex:
- Leverage Availability: Up to 100x on derivatives trading
- Supported Coins for Margin Trading: Multiple, increasing options
- Fees Structure:
- Derivatives Trading: 0.075% Taker fee, -0.025% Maker fee
- Spot Trading: Varies, often lower, providing an edge for strategic traders
One of the highlights of Phemex is its approach to KYC (Know Your Customer). While KYC is a standard practice, Phemex offers leverage trading without mandatory KYC verification, streamlining the process for traders who prioritize privacy.
Pros:
- High leverage options (up to 100x)
- No mandatory KYC for leverage trading
- Competitive fees for makers and takers
Cons:
- May not cater to all U.S. residents
- Leverage trading involves high risk and is not suitable for everyone
Keep in mind that while the lack of strict KYC procedures can be advantageous, it also places a greater responsibility on you to ensure safe and legally compliant trading practices.
#3. BingX
BingX is a cryptocurrency exchange platform that offers you the facility of leverage trading. Originating as a socially integrated trading exchange, BingX emphasizes connecting traders and enhancing their strategic trading capabilities.
Leverage and Spot Markets: You can leverage a variety of cryptocurrencies on BingX – the platform allows for trading on spot markets with leverage, though the exact amount can vary based on market conditions and your account type.
Supported Coins and Margin Trading: When you engage in margin trading, a diverse selection of coins is at your disposal. BingX supports multiple cryptocurrencies, ensuring you have access to a broad spectrum of trading pairs to diversify your trading strategy.
Fees Structure: The fees for leverage trading on BingX are competitive, designed to fit the needs of both occasional and high-volume traders. The structure is tiered; as your trading volume increases, the fees you are subject to can decrease.
Know Your Customer (KYC): In line with global regulatory standards, BingX requires KYC verification for margin trading. This ensures a secure trading environment for you by complying with anti-money laundering (AML) laws and regulations.
Pros of BingX:
- Socially integrated platform; you can learn from other traders
- Real-time customer support available for immediate assistance
Cons of BingX:
- KYC process might be a barrier if you seek complete anonymity
- The range of leverage might not match the highest options available elsewhere
BingX could be an appropriate option if you are looking for an exchange that is user-friendly with an added social element to its trading environment.
UK crypto trader? Have a look at these top UK crypto trading platforms
#4. Binance
Binance’s Foundations in Leverage Trading: Launched in 2017, Binance quickly ascended to become one of the preeminent platforms for cryptocurrency traders. Recognized for its extensive range of services, Binance provides you with leverage options in spot markets, maximizing your trading potential.
Leverage on Spot Markets: When you’re trading on the spot markets with Binance, you can harness leverage to amplify your trading position. Binance enables up to 10x leverage on certain pairs, offering you a way to increase your exposure with a smaller capital outlay.
Supported Coins for Margin Trading: Your options for margin trading on Binance are abundant with a broad selection of cryptocurrencies. Binance supports margin trading for a variety of coins, providing ample opportunity to diversify your trading strategies.
Fee Structure for Leverage Trading: Binance’s fee structure is designed to be competitive, with trading fees varying based on your 30-day trading volume and BNB balance. Fees are typically lower compared to other exchanges, which can make a significant difference in your trading results.
KYC Requirements for Margin Trading: To ensure compliance with regulatory standards, Binance necessitates Know Your Customer (KYC) verification for margin trading. This process safeguards your account and aligns with global financial security measures.
Pros & Cons of Using Binance:
- Pros:
- High liquidity markets which can lead to reduced slippage
- User-friendly interface for ease of trading
- Multi-language support catering to a global user base
- Cons:
- The complexity of features may be daunting for beginners
- In certain jurisdictions, access to leverage trading may be limited due to local regulations
By choosing Binance for crypto leverage trading, you align yourself with a robust platform recognized for its advanced trading features and commitment to security.
#5. Bitget
Bitget has positioned itself as a prominent player in the crypto leverage trading market. Established as a centralized exchange, it caters to your needs for various forms of margin trading, including futures trading and copy trading.
Leverage Availability: For spot markets, Bitget offers a flexible leverage scale, providing you with the opportunity to control the level of risk and reward:
- Spot Markets: Up to 5x leverage
Supported Coins: On Bitget’s margin trading platform, you can access:
- Margin Trading Pairs: A diverse array of coins — specifics can vary over time
Fees Structure: The fees on Bitget for leverage trading are designed to be competitive:
- Maker/Taker Fees: Tiered structure based on 30-day trading volume
- Overnight Funding: Applicable on leveraged positions
KYC Requirements: Engaging in margin trading on Bitget does include KYC (Know Your Customer) verification to ensure a secure trading environment.
Pros:
- Offers high leverage options for futures trading
- Incorporates copy trading features
- No KYC required for basic platform use
Cons:
- Slower customer service response times reported by some users
- Limited availability of coins for spot market leverage trading
When you trade on Bitget, you experience a high-leverage environment with a user-friendly interface that both novices and veterans can navigate with ease. The exchange provides tools to help manage risk while engaging in leverage trading. However, always remember that with high leverage comes high risk, and it’s crucial to trade responsibly.
#6. Kraken Pro
Kraken, founded in 2011 and headquartered in San Francisco, is a well-established cryptocurrency exchange that provides you with the ability to engage in leverage trading.
Leverage on Spot Markets: When using Kraken Pro for margin trading, you can access leverage up to 5x on a variety of spot markets. This level of leverage allows you greater exposure to potential gains while also increasing risks, so it’s important that you understand the mechanics and your comfort with such strategies.
Supported Coins: On Kraken, you’re not limited to just a few options; the platform supports over 100 cryptocurrencies that can be traded on margin. This diversity gives you the flexibility to make strategic choices across a broader spectrum of digital assets.
Fees Structure: While trading with leverage on Kraken, expect a fee range between 0.01% to 0.02% to open positions. Moreover, for every 4-hour period that the position is open, a rollover fee is incurred at the same rate, making it crucial for you to monitor your trades proactively.
KYC Compliance: To ensure security and regulatory compliance, Kraken mandates Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures for margin trading. Your personal information will be required as part of this process, in line with industry standard practices to prevent fraud and illegal activities.
Pros & Cons:
- Pro: Kraken’s emphasis on security and regulatory adherence makes it a secure option for leverage trading.
- Con: While Kraken offers competitive leverage options, its fees schedule may add up, especially if you tend to hold positions for extended periods.
Before you proceed with leverage trading on Kraken, it’s essential to thoroughly understand your financial goals and risk tolerance. Keep in mind that while leverage can amplify returns, it can also accentuate losses.
#7. Crypto.com Exchange
Founded with a vision to accelerate the world’s transition to cryptocurrency, Crypto.com is a significant player in the crypto trading field, offering a range of services including leverage trading. On their platform, you can access leverage on spot markets, enabling you to multiply potential gains (or losses) depending on the asset.
Leverage on Spot Markets: Crypto.com provides leverage of up to 3x for spot trading. This allows you to borrow funds to trade larger positions than your existing capital.
Supported Coins: With Crypto.com, you have the opportunity to trade several cryptocurrencies on margin. The exact number of supported coins can vary, but the platform typically offers popular options such as BTC, ETH, and an assortment of altcoins.
Fees Structure:
Trade Volume (30D) | Maker Fee | Taker Fee |
≤ $250,000 | 0.10% | 0.16% |
> $250,000 | 0.09% | 0.15% |
Note: Fees decrease with higher trading volume.
KYC Requirements: While trading on margin with Crypto.com, you’re required to complete Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures to comply with regulatory standards. This typically involves providing identification and other personal details.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- High-security measures
- Multiple coins for margin trading
Cons:
- Limited maximum leverage compared to other platforms
- KYC may be a barrier for users seeking anonymity
Your experience with Crypto.com’s leverage trading features might be shaped by how you value ease of use, security, and compliance with regulatory standards. Keep in mind that while leverage can amplify gains, it also increases the risk of losses, and it’s crucial to trade responsibly.
Canadian crypto trader? Have a look at these top Canada crypto trading platforms
#8. CME
The Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) Group, a cornerstone of financial derivatives trading, has embraced cryptocurrency within its suite of offerings. Your transition into crypto leverage trading through CME is grounded in the exchange’s strong financial history, ensuring a robust and regulated trading environment.
Leverage Availability:
- Spot Markets: Typically offers leveraged products rather than direct leverage on spot crypto markets.
- Futures Products: Provides leveraged exposure via cryptocurrency futures.
Supported Coins:
- The CME initially started with Bitcoin futures and has since expanded to include Ether futures. Additionally, the innovative Micro Bitcoin and Micro Ether futures cater to traders seeking smaller-scale investment opportunities.
Fee Structure:
- Fees vary based on monthly volume with incentive programs for high-volume traders.
KYC Requirements:
- As a regulated entity, CME mandates Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols without exception, enhancing security and compliance.
Pros & Cons:
- Pros:
- Regulated: Offers peace of mind with a regulated trading environment.
- Capital Efficiency: Futures trading provides the opportunity for capital efficiency.
- Liquidity: High liquidity for better price discovery and reduced slippage.
- Cons:
- Limited Coin Selection: Fewer cryptocurrency options than some specialized crypto exchanges.
- Complexity: Futures and options trading can be complex for inexperienced users.
Your engagement with CME for crypto leverage trading involves balancing the pros of a trusted and well-regulated platform against the cons, including a relatively narrow selection of cryptocurrencies and the inherent complexity of trading sophisticated financial instruments.
#9. Coinbase International Exchange
When you’re diving into the world of cryptocurrency trading, you’ll find that Coinbase stands as a pivotal platform. It has a solid foundation in the crypto space and caters to traders looking to engage in leverage trading. At Coinbase, you have the option to trade with leverage, and for spot markets, this could reach up to 3x leverage based on current regulations.
Coinbase supports a variety of cryptocurrencies for margin trading, allowing you to diversify your portfolio. It’s important to note that while the exact number of supported coins may change, you can expect to have access to most of the popular assets.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the fee structure:
- Maker Fee: From 0% to 0.50%
- Taker Fee: From 0.04% to 0.50%
These fees align with your trading volume and the asset being traded and are competitive with the market standards.
To maintain a secure trading environment, Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols are stringent on Coinbase. You’ll need to verify your identity before you can start leverage trading, which underscores their commitment to regulatory compliance and security.
Pros:
- Security: High priority with insurance backing digital assets.
- User-Friendly Interface: Ideal for beginners and experienced traders.
- Regulation: Complies with U.S. laws, providing a sense of trust.
Cons:
- Restricted Leverage: Due to regulations, leverage options might be limited.
- Geographical Limitations: Some features may not be available in all regions.
By engaging with Coinbase, you’re using a platform that is confident in its ability to offer secure, regulated, and comprehensive leverage trading services in the crypto market.
#10. Gemini
Foundational History: Gemini was established with a focus on compliance and security within the crypto space. It provides leverage trading options to cater to both novice and experienced traders.
Leverage on Spot Markets: On spot markets, Gemini allows you to engage in trading with leverage that can amplify your trading position, although the exact leverage ratio may vary based on the market’s condition and regulatory changes.
Supported Coins on Margin Trading:
- Gemini offers margin trading on a variety of cryptocurrencies.
- You can expand your portfolio with more than 70 crypto assets.
Fee Structure:
- The fees for leverage trading on Gemini are structured to encourage active trading, with a dynamic scale based on your 30-day trading volume.
- Higher volumes typically result in lower fees.
KYC Process:
- To start margin trading on Gemini, completing a Know Your Customer (KYC) procedure is mandatory to adhere to regulatory standards.
Pros & Cons:
- Pros:
- Highly secure: Gemini is recognized for its robust security measures.
- User-friendly: Interfaces cater to different expertise levels.
- Regulatory compliance: Operates with a strong emphasis on adherence to laws and regulations.
- Cons:
- Limited to certain regions due to strict compliance with local regulations.
- Fee structure might be less competitive for low-volume traders.
Your trading on Gemini assures a platform built on a foundation of strict compliance and user safety in mind. With a wide selection of coins and a straightforward KYC process, your leverage trading needs are well-serviced, albeit mindful of the potential higher costs for less active traders.
#11. BYDFi
BYDFi, established in 2020, quickly garnered attention for its leverage trading options in the cryptocurrency sphere. The platform is headquartered in Singapore and operates globally, including in the USA where it is regulated by FinCEN. When you’re considering leverage on spot markets, BYDFi stands out by offering up to 200x leverage, a notable figure in the industry.
In terms of cryptocurrency diversity, BYDFi supports a broad range of coins for margin trading. This allows you to diversify your trading strategies across various cryptocurrencies. It’s important for you to be aware of the fees associated with leverage trading. BYDFi implements a fee structure that is competitive within the market, though specifics can vary depending on the type of trade executed.
Regarding the Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures, BYDFi does require KYC to comply with regulatory standards, particularly for margin trading. This adds a layer of security to your trading activities, ensuring a safer trading environment.
Pros:
- High leverage options up to 200x
- A wide selection of cryptocurrencies for margin trading
- Compliance with regulatory standards (FinCEN)
Cons:
- KYC process can be cumbersome for some users
- Fees, while competitive, may still add up with frequent trading
Your experience with BYDFi could be influenced by these pros and cons, depending on your trading preferences and requirements for security and regulation compliance.
#12. DYDX
dYdX is your go-to decentralized platform if you’re looking for a powerful leverage trading experience. Founded by a former Coinbase engineer, Antoni Juliano, in 2017, it has rapidly become a distinguished player in the world of DeFi.
Leverage on Spot Markets:
- Bitcoin and Ethereum: Up to 20x
- Other Markets: Up to 10x
Supported Coins:
dYdX supports a range of cryptocurrencies for margin trading. You have a variety of options beyond just the major players like Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Fee Structure:
Your trading volume affects the fees on dYdX. They can range from 0% to 0.05%, and holding dYdX’s native token (DYDX) may unlock further discounts.
KYC Policy:
Unlike most centralized exchanges, dYdX does not require Know Your Customer (KYC) verification for margin trading, which can be an attractive feature for traders who prioritize privacy.
Pros of dYdX:
- High leverage options
- No KYC for trading
- Competitive fee structure
- Layer 2 scaling for faster, cheaper transactions
Cons of dYdX:
- May be complex for beginners
- Limited to cryptocurrencies (no fiat trading pairs)
Your trading on dYdX is enhanced by the StarkWare layer 2 scaling solution, which ensures fast and cost-effective transactions. Governed by its users, it gives you a voice in the platform’s future—making you more than just a trader.
#13. GMX
GMX is a decentralized exchange that specializes in perpetual contracts and allows you to trade directly from your wallet on Arbitrum and Avalanche. Established with the aim to cater to both novice and experienced traders, GMX offers a unique platform for engaging with leverage in the crypto markets.
- Leverage Available: You can access up to 50x leverage on perpetual contracts for a range of cryptocurrencies.
- Supported Coins: GMX permits you to trade top cryptocurrencies such as BTC, ETH, AVAX, and others on margin.
The fee structure on GMX is designed to share the revenue with liquidity providers:
- Fees: As a liquidity provider token holder of GMX, you’d accrue 70% of the generated fees from V1 markets.
When it comes to personal verification:
- KYC: GMX stands out by not requiring KYC (Know Your Customer) for margin trading, offering privacy-focused trading.
Pros:
- No KYC requirement enhances privacy.
- Revenue-sharing through fee accrual to GLP token holders.
Cons:
- Offers a relatively limited number of trading pairs.
By engaging with GMX for crypto leverage trading, you’ll experience a user-focused platform that offers a balance of features suitable for various trading strategies without compromising your privacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
In navigating the terrain of cryptocurrency leverage trading in the US, you may have a number of questions. Below are answers to some common inquiries surrounding this topic to guide your decisions.
Where Can I Trade Crypto With Leverage In The US
You can engage in leverage trading with cryptocurrency through several platforms in the US. Notable exchanges include Kraken, which has been operating for a long period and focuses on experienced traders, and KuCoin, offering up to 10x leverage on margin trading and up to 100x leverage on futures trading.
Which platforms provide the highest leverage for cryptocurrency trading in the US?
Margex and KuCoin are known to offer up to 100x leverage on certain trading pairs and products. It’s important to note that while high leverage can amplify gains, it also increases the risks of trading.
Are there any US exchanges that allow for 200x or higher leverage trading?
Currently, there are no US exchanges that offer leverage of 200x or higher. Regulatory guidelines and the risk management policies of most platforms cap leverage at a maximum of 100x.
Is it legal to conduct leverage trading in the United States, and if so, on which platforms?
Yes, it is legal to conduct leverage trading in the United States. However, the activity is regulated, and it’s essential to use platforms that comply with US laws. Exchanges like Kraken and KuCoin allow leverage trading and operate within the regulatory framework of the US.
Conclusion
In the landscape of cryptocurrency exchanges offering leverage to traders in the USA, options such as KuCoin and Margex have established themselves with competitive offerings, including various leverage ratios up to 100x. MEXC distinguishes itself further with a leverage option up to 200x. Meanwhile, OKX is noteworthy for those looking to delve into crypto options markets, particularly with Bitcoin and Ethereum.
- KuCoin: Operates in the USA, providing a comprehensive range of crypto products.
- Margex: Offers up to 100x leverage without KYC verification for select trading pairs.
- MEXC: Stands out with leverage of 200x and low commission fees.
- OKX: Specializes in crypto options markets with leverage up to 100x.
When choosing a cryptocurrency exchange for leverage trading, security, trading pair availability, and fee structure should be at the forefront of your considerations. It’s essential to use sophistication in your approach, aligning with your risk tolerance and trading strategy. Trading on margin with leverage is inherently risky, and as such, you should proceed with caution and ensure you’re well informed.
Remember, the platforms mentioned have been highlighted for their performance and offerings. Should you decide to step into the realm of crypto leverage trading in the USA, these platforms could be a starting point for your journey into margin trading. It’s advisable to conduct thorough research and consider all associated risks.