Real Rate
The cryptocurrency market, often referred to as the “financial wild west” is severely under-regulated. As a result, it can be hard for newcomers to the space and even crypto veterans to know who to trust with their funds.
This is where Real Rate comes in. Real Rate is Coinhint.com’s proprietary ratings algorithm. It has been designed to assist us in generating impartial, reliable crypto broker and exchange reviews.
With Real Rate, we aim to help our readers find a safe, competitive trading environment, where they can confidently and securely capitalize on crypto market opportunities
How Does Real Rate Work?
Our rating algorithm evaluates service providers based on a range of factors, including deposits and withdrawals, security and regulation, fees, trading platforms, asset choice, opening an account, education, support infrastructure, and unique features.
Categories are weighted differently, with greater value given to those aspects most prized by our readers, such as security and fees, and less weight given to factors such as account setup procedures and access to educational collateral.
We also update our reviews every six months to ensure that our readers receive the most up-to-date information when choosing a broker or exchange.
How Our Ratings Are Calculated
In our reviews, we assess service providers by ranking their performance based on nine major categories, within which, over a hundred distinct data points are evaluated.
For example, within the category of security and regulation, a huge variety of variables is considered including the service provider’s compliance with regulatory frameworks, licenses in various jurisdictions, submission to regular security audits, and operational history, including years in business, and security track record. We also look at the application of security measures such as encryption, two-factor authentication (2FA), and cold storage for user funds, as well as the implementation of KYC and AML procedures, and the availability of advanced security options, like Global Settings Lock (GSL), and a Master Key Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU).
Our Scoring System
The results of the Real Rate algorithms calculations are converted into a score ranging from 1 to 5, in half-point increments. Please be aware however that a high ranking does not make a service provider immune from future hacks, fraud, insolvency, or other pitfalls.
A score of 5: Exceptionally Trustworthy
Traders and investors can deposit funds with service providers that have this rating, with complete peace of mind. These brokers and exchanges are considered among the best in the business, with the most secure, regulatory-compliant, tool-rich platforms that offer the most competitive trading terms.
A score of 4: A Solid Reputation
This rating reflects that the service provider offers, trusted, reliable trading services. The tools and features are attractive, the fees are reasonable, and they have a decent reputation within the crypto trading community.
A score of 3: Safe but Proceed with Caution
This score is given to brokers and exchanges that offer a solidly average experience. Readers should fully examine the trading conditions, and regulatory status of the service provider in their jurisdiction, before moving forward and depositing funds.
A score of 2: Significant Risk
These brokers and exchanges should not be used without considerable research and consideration. Deemed high-risk by our algorithm, these service providers are frequently operating without regulatory oversight and may have a history of legal issues or user dissatisfaction.
A score of 1: Do not Deposit
Traders should never deposit capital with brokers and exchanges ranked with a single star. Service providers with this rating should not be trusted due to a complete lack of user security protections and/or black marks on their records for hacks, fraud, or a history of not allowing users to access their funds.
Interested in the details behind our analysis? Read more about our methodology here.