Pricing overview
EXMO implements a variable fee structure primarily impacting trading, deposits, and withdrawals. The core trading fees are distinguished between maker and taker orders, a common model in cryptocurrency exchanges. Maker orders add liquidity to the order book, generally incurring lower fees, while taker orders remove liquidity. EXMO's fees are based on a 30-day trading volume, with higher volumes leading to reduced percentages. Additionally, holding EXM tokens, the platform's native cryptocurrency, can provide further fee discounts. Non-trading activities, such as fiat and cryptocurrency deposits and withdrawals, also incur specific fees that vary by asset and payment method. This pricing framework is detailed on the official EXMO Fees and Limits page.
Plans and tiers
EXMO's pricing model is structured around trading volume tiers, which dictate the maker and taker fees applied to spot trading. The tiers are calculated based on a user's cumulative trading volume over the past 30 days. Higher trading volumes result in lower percentage fees. Beyond trading volume, users can achieve additional fee reductions by holding EXM tokens in their account. This dual incentive system aims to reward both active traders and long-term holders of EXMO's native asset.
Spot Trading Fees
The following table illustrates the general structure of EXMO's spot trading fees, subject to a user's 30-day trading volume and EXM token holdings. Specific percentages are detailed on the EXMO platform's fee schedule.
| 30-Day Trading Volume (USD Equivalent) | Maker Fee (%) | Taker Fee (%) | EXM Token Discount (Example) |
|---|---|---|---|
| < $10,000 | 0.10% | 0.25% | No additional discount |
| $10,000 - $50,000 | 0.08% | 0.20% | 5% discount (e.g., for 1,000 EXM) |
| $50,000 - $100,000 | 0.06% | 0.15% | 10% discount (e.g., for 5,000 EXM) |
| > $100,000 | 0.05% | 0.10% | Up to 20% discount (e.g., for 10,000+ EXM) |
Note: The specific EXM token discount percentages and required token amounts are subject to change and should be verified on the official EXMO fee page.
Deposit and Withdrawal Fees
Deposit fees for cryptocurrencies are typically zero, though network transaction fees (gas fees) may apply, which are not set by EXMO. Fiat deposits and withdrawals incur fees that vary significantly based on the chosen payment method (e.g., bank transfer, credit card, specific payment systems). These fees are dynamic and depend on the service provider and region. For instance, SEPA transfers for EUR might have lower fees than international wire transfers or credit card transactions. Cryptocurrency withdrawal fees are fixed per asset and cover the blockchain network costs. A comprehensive list of these fees for various fiat and crypto assets can be found in the EXMO fee documentation.
Free tier and limits
EXMO offers a foundational free tier primarily focused on account registration and basic platform access. Users can create an account, complete KYC/AML verification, and explore the platform interface without incurring direct costs. Cryptocurrency deposits are generally free, meaning EXMO itself does not charge a fee, though blockchain network fees still apply and are paid by the sender. This free tier allows users to onboard, secure their accounts, and prepare for trading without an initial financial commitment. However, trading activities, fiat deposits, and withdrawals are subject to the fees outlined in the EXMO fee schedule.
Free Tier Features:
- Account Registration: No charge for creating an EXMO account.
- KYC/AML Verification: Identity verification processes are free of charge.
- Platform Access: Browsing market data, order books, and interface features.
- Cryptocurrency Deposits: EXMO does not charge for most crypto deposits; network transaction fees are separate.
- API Access: The EXMO API can be accessed for development and testing purposes, though usage limits may apply.
Limits on the Free Tier:
While account creation is free, all operational aspects involving value transfer come with limits and fees:
- Trading: All spot and margin trades incur maker/taker fees based on volume and EXM token holdings.
- Fiat Deposits: Varying fees apply depending on currency and payment method.
- Fiat Withdrawals: Varying fees apply depending on currency and payment method.
- Cryptocurrency Withdrawals: Fixed fees per asset apply, covering network costs.
- Unverified Accounts: Accounts that have not completed full KYC verification may face significantly lower deposit, withdrawal, and trading limits, as is standard practice for regulated exchanges to comply with Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations.
Real-world cost examples
Understanding EXMO's fee structure through examples can clarify potential costs for different user scenarios.
Scenario 1: Low-Volume Trader (New User)
- Action: A new user deposits 1,000 EUR via SEPA, buys 0.05 BTC with a market order (taker), and later sells 0.05 BTC with a limit order (maker), then withdraws 1,000 EUR via SEPA.
- Assumptions: Initial 30-day trading volume is negligible.
- Costs:
- EUR Deposit (SEPA): Typically 0% - 1% (e.g., 0.5% = 5 EUR).
- BTC Purchase (Taker): 0.25% of 1,000 EUR (approx. 2.50 EUR).
- BTC Sale (Maker): 0.10% of 1,000 EUR (approx. 1.00 EUR).
- EUR Withdrawal (SEPA): Typically 0.5% - 2% (e.g., 1% = 10 EUR).
- Total Estimated Cost: ~18.50 EUR (plus potential spread).
Scenario 2: Moderate-Volume Trader (EXM Holder)
- Action: A user with a 30-day volume of $60,000 (qualifying for lower fees) and holding 5,000 EXM tokens (for a 10% discount) trades 5,000 USD worth of crypto, split equally between maker and taker orders.
- Assumptions: Base fees for this volume tier are 0.06% maker and 0.15% taker.
- Costs:
- Maker Trade (2,500 USD): 0.06% * 2,500 USD = 1.50 USD. With 10% EXM discount: 1.50 USD * 0.9 = 1.35 USD.
- Taker Trade (2,500 USD): 0.15% * 2,500 USD = 3.75 USD. With 10% EXM discount: 3.75 USD * 0.9 = 3.375 USD.
- Total Trading Cost: ~4.73 USD.
Scenario 3: Crypto-Only User
- Action: A user deposits 1 ETH, trades 1 ETH for 1,500 USDT (taker order), and then withdraws 1,500 USDT.
- Assumptions: Low trading volume, default fees. ETH network fee for deposit is paid by sender.
- Costs:
- ETH Deposit: 0 EXMO fee (network fee paid by sender).
- ETH to USDT Trade (Taker): 0.25% of 1,500 USDT = 3.75 USDT.
- USDT Withdrawal: Fixed fee (e.g., 1 USDT for ERC-20, subject to change).
- Total Estimated Cost: ~4.75 USDT (plus network fee on deposit).
How the pricing compares
When evaluating EXMO's pricing, it is useful to compare it against other major cryptocurrency exchanges like Binance, Kraken, and Coinbase. These platforms often employ similar maker/taker fee models and volume-based discounts, but the specific percentages and qualifying thresholds can differ significantly.
Maker/Taker Fees:
- EXMO: Starts at 0.10% maker / 0.25% taker for low volumes, decreasing with higher volumes and EXM token holdings.
- Binance: Starts at 0.10% maker / 0.10% taker for low volumes, with significant reductions for higher volumes and BNB token holdings. Binance's initial taker fee is often lower than EXMO's for new users as per their fee schedule.
- Kraken: Starts at 0.16% maker / 0.26% taker for low volumes on their instant buy/sell service, with varying fees for their Kraken Pro platform, offering lower rates for higher volumes as detailed on their fee page.
- Coinbase: Uses a spread-based fee for simple buys/sells and a tiered fee structure for Coinbase Advanced Trade, starting higher for small transactions (e.g., 0.60% maker / 0.80% taker for < $10,000 volume) but becoming competitive at higher volumes according to Coinbase's fee explanation.
Fiat Deposits and Withdrawals:
- EXMO generally offers competitive fees for fiat transactions, especially for SEPA transfers in EUR, which are often low or free for deposits. However, credit card and other payment methods can incur higher percentages.
- Binance also provides low-cost or free SEPA/bank transfers in many regions, but fees can vary widely by local options.
- Kraken is known for offering various fiat funding options, with varying fees depending on the method and currency, often including free options for wire transfers.
- Coinbase's fees for fiat deposits and withdrawals can be higher, especially for instant transfers or debit card transactions, though standard bank transfers may be free in some regions.
EXM Token Discounts:
- EXMO's model of providing additional fee discounts for holding its native EXM token is similar to Binance's BNB token model, which offers substantial fee reductions. This incentivizes users to invest in the platform's ecosystem. Kraken and Coinbase do not currently offer a direct native token discount mechanism for trading fees.
Overall Comparison:
EXMO's pricing is competitive, particularly for users engaging in higher trading volumes or holding EXM tokens, which significantly reduces costs. For very low-volume or infrequent traders, other platforms might offer slightly lower initial taker fees or simpler flat-fee structures. However, EXMO's comprehensive suite of services, combined with its tiered discounts, positions it as a viable option for active traders looking to optimize their trading expenses. Users should always consult the most current EXMO fee schedule and compare it with alternatives based on their specific trading habits, preferred assets, and regional payment methods.