Altcoin breadth

KuCoin's defining strength is its coin selection. With over 700 listed assets, it provides access to early-stage altcoins that larger, more conservative exchanges decline to list. For traders seeking exposure to emerging Layer 2 tokens, DeFi protocols, GameFi assets, and low-cap projects, KuCoin consistently lists new assets ahead of most competitors. Its Spotlight launchpad allows users to participate in initial exchange listings (IEOs) for new projects at preferential prices.

Trading products

KuCoin offers spot trading, USDT-margined futures, margin trading (up to 10x), copy trading, a P2P lending marketplace, and flexible staking through KuCoin Earn. The copy trading feature allows users to follow top-performing traders with configurable allocation rules and full performance transparency. Futures trading covers BTC, ETH, and hundreds of altcoin perpetuals.

Fee structure

Base maker/taker fees are 0.10%/0.10%, in line with Binance's standard rate. Holding KCS (KuCoin Token) reduces fees further, with KCS holders also receiving a daily dividend from the exchange's trading fee revenue, a loyalty mechanism similar to Binance's BNB model.

Regulatory standing

KuCoin does not hold top-tier regulatory licences from the FCA, NYDFS, CSSF, or MiCA. It obtained a VASP registration in Seychelles and operates under a lighter regulatory framework than exchanges such as Kraken, Gemini, or Bitstamp. In 2023, the US Department of Justice charged KuCoin and two of its founders with operating an unlicensed money transmitter and violating the Bank Secrecy Act; KuCoin subsequently reached a settlement with the DoJ in 2024, including withdrawal from the US market and a $300 million penalty. This is the most consequential regulatory event in the exchange's history and represents a material compliance risk that users should factor into their decision.

Security

KuCoin suffered a major hack in 2020 in which approximately $285 million in assets were compromised. The exchange recovered approximately 84% of the stolen assets through project token swaps and insurance fund payouts, and compensated all affected users within three months. No major security incidents have occurred since.

Where it falls short

The regulatory track record, including the 2024 DoJ settlement, introduces counterparty risk that more regulated exchanges do not carry. Not available to US residents following the 2024 settlement. Customer support quality is variable.

Bottom line

For experienced traders outside the US seeking access to the widest altcoin selection, early-stage token launches, and 0.10%/0.10% maker/taker fees, KuCoin remains a relevant platform. The regulatory settlement and lighter compliance profile mean it is best treated as a secondary exchange for altcoin exposure rather than a primary custodian for large holdings.