The world of digital assets is evolving rapidly, and cryptocurrency trading has become a key component of many investors’ portfolios. As scams and fraudulent platforms continue to emerge, choosing a secure and trustworthy exchange is more important than ever. Compared to offshore platforms, local Taiwanese exchanges offer the advantage of regulatory compliance, localized customer support, and greater transparency. This guide breaks down the major cryptocurrency exchanges in Taiwan, helping beginners make informed decisions in their investment journey.
What Is a Cryptocurrency Exchange? 3 Key Points for Beginners
Entering the crypto market starts with selecting the right platform. A cryptocurrency exchange functions much like a stockbroker in the traditional financial world—enabling users to buy, sell, and trade digital assets. However, not all platforms are created equal. Here are three critical factors every new investor should consider.
1. Legitimacy: Choose Licensed Platforms to Avoid Risk
Taiwan has been steadily building a regulatory framework for digital assets. The most crucial benchmark is compliance with the Anti-Money Laundering Act. Only platforms that have registered with Taiwan’s Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC) and comply with the Virtual Currency Platform and Trading Business Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Measures are legally permitted to operate.
👉 Discover how compliant exchanges protect your investments with regulated frameworks.
Operating without this approval poses significant risks, including potential legal issues and lack of investor protection. Always verify an exchange’s registration status before depositing funds.
2. Security: Three Layers of Financial Protection
In the crypto space, security is paramount. A trustworthy exchange should offer:
- Trust-based fund management – Ensuring user funds are held separately from company assets
- Strict KYC (Know Your Customer) procedures – Preventing identity fraud and unauthorized access
- Multi-layered account protection – Including two-factor authentication (2FA), biometric login, and encrypted private key storage
Additionally, research the platform’s history: Has it suffered security breaches? Were user funds ever compromised? Past incidents can reveal a lot about a platform’s reliability.
3. Trading Volume: Why Liquidity Matters
High trading volume is a strong indicator of a healthy exchange. It means:
- More buyers and sellers are active on the platform
- Faster trade execution with minimal delays
- Reduced price slippage during transactions
Just like choosing a bank, selecting a crypto exchange requires careful evaluation. Prioritize legitimacy, security, and liquidity to build a solid foundation for your investment journey.
Top Legal Cryptocurrency Exchanges in Taiwan
HOYA BIT: Pioneering Regulatory Compliance
HOYA BIT (operated by Ho Ya Digital Technology) stands out as one of Taiwan’s first exchanges to achieve full anti-money laundering compliance before launching operations. With a user-friendly interface and a strong educational focus through its “HOYA BIT Academy,” the platform empowers beginners with essential crypto knowledge. Its proactive compliance strategy positions it as a trusted choice in an increasingly regulated market.
MaiCoin: Trusted Gateway for New Investors
As Taiwan’s first officially recognized compliant exchange, MaiCoin sets a high standard for security. It uses industry-grade SSL encryption and stores digital assets in offline cold wallets. Notably, both TWD and USD user funds are held in trust by banks, ensuring complete separation from operational capital.
MaiCoin and MAX are both under the MaiCoin Group but serve different purposes. MaiCoin allows direct trading with the platform—ideal for users unfamiliar with crypto—offering multiple deposit methods including bank transfers and convenience store payments at 7-Eleven and Hi-Life.
👉 See how top exchanges simplify crypto access with secure, user-friendly tools.
MAX Exchange: High-Performance Trading with Strong Security
Operating since 2018, MAX Exchange is known for its high-speed trading engine and robust infrastructure. It completed FSC anti-money laundering registration in October 2021 and continues to enhance its compliance and security protocols. With deep liquidity and a professional trading environment, MAX appeals to both retail and experienced traders.
XREX: Focused on Emerging Markets
Founded in 2018, XREX distinguishes itself by targeting financial inclusion in emerging economies. Its mission is to address USD scarcity in regions like Southeast Asia, India, Latin America, and Africa. Backed by a team with strong cybersecurity expertise, XREX combines global vision with secure technology.
BitoPro (BitoEX): Bridging Crypto and Daily Life
Established in 2017, BitoPro made history as the first exchange to partner with Taiwan’s four major convenience store chains. Users can purchase crypto via payment codes at FamilyMart, enhancing accessibility for non-tech-savvy users. Beyond trading, BitoPro is expanding into blockchain wallets and decentralized applications.
ACE Exchange: Professional Advisory Integration
Founded by the former head of KPMG’s startup division, ACE Exchange emphasizes regulatory compliance through collaboration with top accounting firms. While it brings professional credibility, recent controversies have raised concerns about its stability. Investors should conduct thorough due diligence before engaging with the platform.
Exchanges Exiting Retail Services
The market is consolidating under stricter regulations:
- BITGIN (BiJing) shifted focus to institutional clients in January 2024
- Rybit discontinued retail services in August 2024
Industry experts suggest this trend reflects a maturing market, where only well-capitalized, compliant platforms will survive.
Telecom Giants Enter the Crypto Space
With growing public interest in digital assets—fueled by global political and economic shifts—Taiwan’s telecom leaders are stepping in. Taiwan Mobile, Far Eas Telecom, and Chunghwa Telecom are actively exploring blockchain applications and crypto integration. By leveraging their massive customer bases and trusted brands, these companies aim to introduce crypto services to younger demographics through familiar channels.
This expansion could significantly broaden access to regulated crypto trading in Taiwan.
Navigating Market Volatility: Key Risks for Investors
While opportunities abound, the crypto market remains highly volatile. Taiwanese exchanges face ongoing challenges:
- Price fluctuations due to global market sentiment
- Evolving regulatory policies
- Cybersecurity threats and phishing attacks
Investors must approach crypto with caution. Only allocate funds you can afford to lose, conduct independent research, and use secure platforms that meet compliance standards.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are all cryptocurrency exchanges in Taiwan legal?
A: No. Only exchanges registered under Taiwan’s Anti-Money Laundering Act are legally permitted to operate. Always verify an exchange’s compliance status before using it.
Q: How can I protect my crypto assets from hacking?
A: Use exchanges with cold wallet storage, enable two-factor authentication (2FA), avoid sharing private keys, and consider hardware wallets for long-term holdings.
Q: Can I buy crypto with cash at convenience stores in Taiwan?
A: Yes. BitoPro allows users to purchase cryptocurrency via payment codes at FamilyMart. Other platforms may offer similar services through bank transfers or ATM deposits.
Q: What happens if an exchange shuts down?
A: Regulated platforms typically have user fund protection measures. However, unregulated exchanges may not return assets. Always use compliant services to minimize risk.
Q: Is cryptocurrency trading taxable in Taiwan?
A: Yes. Profits from crypto trading are subject to income tax under Taiwan’s current regulations. Keep accurate records for tax reporting.
Q: Should I use a local or international exchange?
A: Local exchanges offer better customer support, TWD pairs, and regulatory protection. International platforms may offer more coins but come with higher risks and compliance uncertainty.
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