Binance Blog

Main TakeawaysMining payout models involve a trade-off between stability and variance, with PPS or FPPS offering predictable payment, PPLNS having higher variability, and PPS+ sitting somewhere in between.Short-term pool luck is normal statistical variance and evens out over time. Miner decisions should be based on long-term performance rather than short-term results.Pool efficiency, infrastructure, and reliability often matter more than headline fees, since latency and stale shares can materially reduce real earnings. Consider well-established pools such as Binance Pool to help support consistent performance and predictable payouts over time.Crypto mining payouts are not one-size-fits-all. Different mining pools use different payout models, and the model you choose affects how steady your earnings are, how much variance you take on, and how exposed you are to factors like pool luck and transaction fee swings.This guide will explain and compare the most common payout models (PPS, PPS+, FPPS, and PPLNS) and walk you through how luck and pool fees influence real outcomes, so you can better understand the trade-offs and make a more informed decision based on your risk tolerance and operating style.Payout Models: How Do You Want to Earn?Before choosing a payout model, it helps to know what makes up a miner’s income. Generally, earnings come from two sources: the fixed block subsidy awarded when a block is found, and the transaction fees included in that block (which can fluctuate with network demand). Payout models mainly differ in how they distribute these components, and how much “luck” and fee volatility you, versus the pool, are willing to take on.PPS (Pay Per Share): The Insured Fixed PaymentImagine you are a freelance artist paid a flat fee for every piece you create, regardless of whether it becomes a bestseller or never sells. With PPS, the pool pays you for every valid share you submit as the pool operator absorbs the luck risk: even if the pool does not find a block for a period of time, miners are still paid. Because the operator is effectively providing that insurance, PPS typically comes with a fee.PPS+ (Pay Per Share Plus): Fixed Payment With Performance BonusSimilar to a sales representative, opting for PPS+ guarantees a base payment with performance bonus, based on your contribution. PPS+ splits payouts into two parts: block rewards are paid via PPS – per share – while transaction fees are paid per last N shares (PPLNS, see below for details).This model offers a safety net for your primary compensation while still giving you the upside of transaction fee spikes, which appeals to miners who want the stability of a daily paycheck but still want to benefit from the high transaction fees when the pool finds a high-fee block.FPPS (Full Pay Per Share): Full Theoretical PaymentImagine you work at a high-end restaurant where you earn a guaranteed hourly wage, and your pay already includes an average tip component based on long-term trends, not how busy any single night is. This is the idea behind FPPS: miners receive a steady payout based on the full theoretical block value, including both the block reward and transaction fees, while the pool absorbs the variance and fee risk.On Binance Pool, FPPS turns both block rewards and transaction fees into predictable miner payouts, so you can focus on operations while the pool manages luck and fee swings in the background.PPLNS (Pay Per Last N Shares): The Fishing BoatOften on a fishing boat, you're not paid by the hour. Instead, you earn a share of the catch – which can be highly dependent on luck. If the boat comes back empty, there’s nothing to split, but if the catch is big, your payout can be significantly higher.In PPLNS, rewards are based on how much you contributed during the pool’s settlement period. As long as your work falls within that period, it counts toward the final payout – even if the catch happens earlier or later in the day.Because of this, PPLNS payouts can outperform other models when the pool is lucky, but earnings are more variable and depend on how much and how consistently you contribute over time rather than short-term uptime.Quick Comparison of Crypto Mining Payout ModelsRefer to Retail Mining 101 guide for a more detailed explanation.ModelAnalogySuitability ForPPSFixed PaymentMiners who want maximum payout stability and minimal variance.PPS+Base + FeesMiners who want a guaranteed baseline while still benefiting from transaction fees.FPPSFull Theoretical PaymentMiners seeking the highest theoretical yield with low variance.PPLNSThe Fishing BoatMiners with regular contribution who accept higher payout variance for lower fees.Understanding Luck in Mining Pools: The Coin Flip FactorImagine flipping a fair coin. Over a small number of flips, results can look very uneven. You might get far more heads or tails than expected. But as the number of flips increases, the results always move closer to what the math predicts: 50% heads, 50% tails.In the case of mining, “luck” is just statistical variance. A pool might have a lucky day when it finds blocks faster than the math suggests, but over a long period of time, every pool’s luck should gravitate toward 100%.Therefore, short-term reward swings are normal, especially for lower-hash-rate coins. Instead of overly fixating on payout mechanics, you should consider mining pool consistency and reliability.Pool Fees and EfficiencyMining pool fees pay for the infrastructure required to convert your hash power into consistent, payable rewards. This includes reliable servers, global node coverage, block template construction, payout systems, monitoring, and ongoing maintenance.Lower fees are attractive, but it only matters if your submitted share is efficiently accepted and paid. High latency and poor execution can significantly reduce earnings through higher stale shares or missed submissions. These often outweigh small fee differences.Generally, larger, well-established pools tend to perform better in these areas because they can invest more in global servers, redundancy, and long-term maintenance that help reduce inefficiencies and improve consistency for miners. Binance Pool is an example of this approach, leveraging Binance’s global infrastructure and operational excellence to support stable, efficient mining for all of our users.Final ThoughtsIn the long run, choosing a mining pool is less about chasing a lucky streak or the lowest fee and more about matching a payout model to your risk tolerance, uptime consistency, and need for stable remuneration. Ultimately, disciplined miners who prioritize reliable payout mechanics, efficient infrastructure, and trusted operators are better positioned to mine and earn steadily, amid volatility and short-term variance. For miners looking for this combination, Binance Pool has all the ingredients. Further Reading2025 Binance Pool Recap – Market Trends, Pool Upgrades, and What’s NextBoost Your Rewards with Mining and Binance EarnRetail Mining 101 – A Comprehensive Guide for BeginnersDisclaimer and Risk Warning: Digital assets are subject to high market risk and price volatility. The value of your investment may go down or up, and you may not get back the amount invested. You are solely responsible for your investment decisions and Binance is not liable for any losses you may incur. Past performance is not a reliable predictor of future performance. You should only invest in products you are familiar with and where you understand the risks. You should carefully consider your investment experience, financial situation, investment objectives and risk tolerance and consult an independent financial adviser prior to making any investment. This material should not be construed as financial advice. This product may not be available in certain countries and to certain users. This content is not intended for users/countries to which prohibitions/restrictions apply. For more information, see our Terms of Use and Risk Warning.

Main TakeawaysFranklin Templeton and Binance have launched a new institutional off-exchange collateral program that allows eligible clients to use tokenized money market fund shares issued via Franklin Templeton’s Benji Technology Platform as collateral when trading on Binance.The program is designed to improve capital efficiency while reducing counterparty risk by keeping assets held off-exchange in third-party custody, with collateral value mirrored within Binance’s trading environment using Ceffu’s custody layer.The initiative builds on Franklin Templeton and Binance’s strategic collaboration announced in September 2025 and reflects the convergence between TradFi and digital assets.Today, we’re pleased to announce a new institutional off-exchange collateral program in collaboration with global investment leader Franklin Templeton,  making digital markets more secure and capital-efficient.This initiative builds on Franklin Templeton and Binance’s strategic collaboration announced in 2025 and reflects the convergence between TradFi and digital assets.Now live, eligible clients can use tokenized money market fund (MMF) shares issued through Franklin Templeton’s Benji Technology Platform as off-exchange collateral when trading on Binance through the custody and settlement infrastructure provided by Ceffu, Binance’s institutional crypto-native custody partner. How Tokenization Can Advance Our IndustryThe program alleviates a long-standing pain point for institutional traders by allowing them to use traditional regulated, yield-bearing money market fund assets in digital markets without parking those assets on an exchange. Instead, the value of Benji-issued fund shares is mirrored within Binance’s trading environment, while the tokenized assets themselves remain securely held off-exchange in third-party custody. This reduces counterparty risk, letting institutional participants earn yield and support their trading activity without hedging on custody, liquidity, or regulatory protections.Closer Convergence Between TradFi and Digital Assets“Since partnering in 2025, our work with Binance has focused on making digital finance actually work for institutions,” said Roger Bayston, Head of Digital Assets at Franklin Templeton. “Our off-exchange collateral program is just that: letting clients easily put their assets to work in third-party custody while safely earning yield in new ways. That’s the future Benji was designed for, and working with partners like Binance allows us to deliver it at scale.”“Partnering with Franklin Templeton to offer tokenized real-world assets as off-exchange collateral is a natural next step in our mission to bring digital assets and traditional finance closer together,” said Catherine Chen, Head of VIP & Institutional at Binance. “Innovating ways to use traditional financial instruments on-chain opens up new opportunities for investors and shows just how blockchain technology can make markets more efficient." The program aligns with broader institutional trends: demand is rising for stable, yield-bearing collateral that can support 24/7 settlement cycles and integrate into existing governance and risk frameworks. As Ian Loh, CEO of Ceffu, observed: “Institutions increasingly require trading models that prioritize risk management without sacrificing capital efficiency.”Tokenized money market funds are one example of how traditional products can be adapted for modern market structure, enabling institutions to manage risk and deploy capital more efficiently as digital finance becomes a regular part of the financial system.Final ThoughtsInstitutional adoption depends on market infrastructure that fits institutional needs. Offering more tokenized real-world assets on Binance meets the increasing institutional demand for stable, yield-bearing collateral that can settle 24/7. This gives investors greater choice and enhances their trading experience on the world’s largest regulated digital asset exchange.Further ReadingsBinance Integrates BlackRock’s BUIDL Fund into Institutional Collateral FrameworkBinance Banking Triparty – Now With 0% Fees Until March 31, 2026Introducing Binance Crypto-as-a-Service — A Premium White-Label Infrastructure Solution for InstitutionsDisclaimer: Digital asset prices are subject to high market risk and price volatility. The value of your investment can go down or up, and you may not get back the amount invested. You are solely responsible for your investment decisions, and Binance is not liable for any losses you may incur. Past performance is not a reliable predictor of future performance. You should only invest in products you are familiar with and where you understand the risks. You should carefully consider your investment experience, financial situation, investment objectives, and risk tolerance and consult an independent financial adviser prior to making any investment. This material should not be construed as financial advice. For more information, see our Terms of Use, VIP Loan Terms of Use and Risk Warning.

Main TakeawaysIf someone reaches out to you claiming they work with Binance – especially in roles like business development and partnerships, account management, and customer support – check them using Binance Verify. If they cannot be verified, treat the contact as untrusted, and do not proceed.If anyone guides you to download and open files, share screenshots of your account pages, scan QR codes to log in, enable remote control or screen sharing, share your password, or click unknown links, stop immediately.Do not open compressed files or run attachments sent by strangers, even if they look like normal documents. If you have already opened a suspicious file or shared screenshots, contact Binance Customer Support and take immediate account-security steps.Impersonators often try to look routine: a “Binance” message about rebates, an “account manager” offering help, or “customer support” asking you to verify something quickly. The risk usually starts when the conversation pushes you to take a specific action, such as downloading a file, sharing account screenshots, scanning a QR code to log in, clicking an unknown link, or enabling remote access.This guide walks through a real case of how an “application form” led to account takeover, the three signals that commonly show up in such imposter attempts, and how to use Binance Verify to confirm whether a contact or channel is actually official before you proceed.A Real-world Case: From an “Application Form” to Account TakeoverIn a recent case, a user was contacted by someone impersonating a Binance business representative on a social platform. The impersonator claimed they could “upgrade the rebate rate,” and sent a compressed file labeled as a “Binance rebate application form,” instructing the user to download, unarchive, and fill it out.The user followed the instructions, opened the file, and shared screenshots – including an account assets page – with the impersonator, who then claimed the “upgrade” required a 50,000 USDT deposit. The user said they did not have that balance at the time. This likely reduced the impersonator’s incentive to act immediately, but they stayed in contact.User: No review needed. How much is it?Impersonator: 50% super rebate.User: Then how do we calculate the previous referrals?Impersonator: Those count as well.Impersonator: They’re all users you referred.User: OK.Impersonator: After you fill out the application form, send it to me, and I’ll help you get it activated.Impersonator (file): Binance Super Rebate Application Form.rar (72.3 KB, RAR)Impersonator: The application form is an encrypted file. Please unzip it first and then fill it out.Impersonator: Unzip password: binanceImpersonator: After you’ve completed it, please send the application form to me. If anything is unclear while filling it out, you can send me a screenshot, and I’ll help confirm how to complete it.User: I’ve filled it out. How do I send it to you?Two days later, the impersonator contacted the user again and claimed a “special approval” had been obtained, allowing a lower balance to proceed. The user then deposited 30,000+ USDT and sent a screenshot as confirmation.After that, the impersonator guided the user through a QR-code login step. By scanning a QR code generated by the attacker, the user inadvertently authorized a login session on their account. The impersonator then enabled remote control and moved the assets out of the account. Binance subsequently took risk-control actions on the suspicious accounts involved.The next day, the user contacted Binance Customer Support and reported the issue. Based on the compressed file the user provided, Binance Security’s analysis found a file that appeared to be a normal .docx document, but actually functioned as a .dll – a pattern consistent with malware delivery.Impersonator: Please take a screenshot on your computer. The screenshot needs to show the UID of the account you’re applying with and the completed application form, mainly to confirm the application is made by you.User: Same as last time?Impersonator: Yes.User: Can it be a bit later?User: I’m not at my computer right now.User: Later.Impersonator: When you say “later,” you mean later tonight, right?Impersonator: OK.User: (sends screenshot)User: Is this OK?Why the Justification Matters Less Than the ActionSocial engineering works by offering a story that sounds plausible. The story could be rebates, promotions, account upgrades, document updates, security checks, or “urgent handling.” Many users focus on whether the story sounds real.Regardless of the story, it is usually what happens next that carries risk. The most common danger steps include downloading and opening files, sending account screenshots, scanning QR codes as instructed, and enabling remote control or screen sharing. When a conversation pushes you toward any of these actions, treat it as a security incident rather than a customer-service flow.Three Signals That Often Show up in Impersonation Attempts1) The identity looks “official,” but isn’t verifiedScammers can copy profile photos, display names, and bios. They can also create handles that look nearly identical to real ones. A professional tone, a familiar logo, or a long chat history is not proof.The same applies to social groups. Large group size does not equal legitimacy. Membership can be inflated with bots or purchased accounts. Don’t rely on avatars, usernames, or group numbers as verification.2) Malware through a compressed fileCompressed files often contain items named “form,” “application,” or “instructions.” Some are designed to look like normal documents while hiding executable behavior. You may think you are opening a document, but a background process may start running the moment you click.Similar traps can also arrive as phishing links or spoofed emails that ask you to log in or provide sensitive details. Treat unexpected files and links as untrusted by default.3) Account access and transaction abuse after depositIf you have limited assets at the moment of their initial approach, an impersonator may not act immediately. Instead, they may keep the relationship “warm,” wait for a deposit, ask for a screenshot to confirm funds, then push QR login or remote control once conditions are more “favorable” for them.How to Use Binance Verify to Stay SafeBinance Verify is our platform for checking whether or not a source link, sender’s email, or social handle is from an official, verified Binance entity. If someone who reached out to you claims to represent Binance, please verify their identity using Binance Verify. For detailed instructions on how to use the tool, visit FAQ: What Is Binance Verify?.If they cannot be verified there, treat the contact as untrusted, and do not proceed.You do not need a Binance account to use Binance Verify. The tool is accessible for everyone to safeguard against scams and phishing attacks. What Binance Employees Will Never Do – A Quick Checklist for Spotting ImpersonatorsAs a rule, Binance employees will NOT contact you via non-official channels to:Send you files, compressed packages, installers, or attachments via non-official channels. Red flag: You’re pressured to download or open unsolicited files, especially compressed ones, from unofficial sources.Ask you to click unknown links to “apply” for rebates, upgrades, or benefits. Red flag: You receive urgent messages urging you to click suspicious links that bypass regular verification processes or offer deals that seem too good to be true.Request screenshots of your assets, balances, PnL, UID, account pages, or security settings to “qualify” you. Red flag: You’re asked for sensitive account information as a prerequisite for rewards or upgrades – legitimate staff will not require such disclosures.Ask you to scan QR codes to “verify,” “activate,” or “log in.” Red flag: You’re asked to scan QR codes from unknown or unofficial sources, especially with promises of fast verification or access.Share a recovery phrase with you, or tell you a recovery phrase for “your wallet,” then ask you to use it. Red flag: Someone claims to provide your “wallet recovery phrase” and instructs you to import or use it – remember that sharing or using recovery phrases outside your own wallet is highly risky.Read this blog to learn more about Share-Seed-Phrase Scams.Ask you to send funds to another account or address for any reason (for example, “verification,” “processing,” or “security”). Red flag: You’re pressured to transfer money to unfamiliar wallets or accounts purportedly for verification or security purposes – this is a strong indicator of fraud.If someone asks you to do any of the above, stop the conversation and verify first.What to Do if You Have Already Been TargetedIf you’ve received a file from someone claiming to represent Binance, do not download or open it before verifying the source. If you already opened it, take these actions in order:Stop interacting with the sender. Do not follow further instructions, click additional links, scan QR codes, or share screenshots.Check your assets first (quick damage check). Open the Binance app or website directly (do not use any links you were sent) and review: your total balance, recent transactions, withdrawals, conversions, and any transfers between your own accounts. If anything looks unfamiliar, treat it as urgent.Secure your account immediately. Change your Binance password and reset your security settings (including 2FA) if you suspect being compromised.Review account access and remove anything you don’t recognize. Check login activity, device management, and active sessions, then remove any unfamiliar devices or sessions.Scan and clean your device. Run a trusted malware scan. If you suspect the device is compromised, move sensitive activity to a clean device until you are confident that the current device is safe.Contact Binance Customer Support through official channels and report what happened. Include what platform you were contacted on, what was shared, and the approximate time of the incident.Final ThoughtsImpersonation scams are designed to feel routine to anyone who expects business outreach from Binance. Protect yourself by following a simple default: verify identities only through Binance Verify, do not open compressed files or attachments from untrusted sources, and contact Binance Customer Support through official channels if anything feels off. Early action can reduce risk and help keep your account secure. To confirm whether a person claiming to represent Binance is legitimate, use Binance Verify.Further ReadingWhat is Binance Verify?How to Identify Scammers Impersonating Binance on TelegramHow to Spot and Avoid Lookalike Token Scams: 2026 GuideHow to Report Scams on Binance SupportDisclaimer: Digital asset prices can be volatile. The value of your investment may go down or up, and you may not get back the amount invested. This content is for general information only and should not be construed as financial or investment advice. For more information, see our Terms of Use and Risk Warning.

Main TakeawaysNew research released by The Blockchain Center Abu Dhabi finds that the UAE is moving from blockchain experimentation to regulated, large-scale deployment across finance, governance, and public-sector efficiency.The report highlights how the UAE’s layered regulatory framework is enabling institutional adoption across payments, tokenization, custody, and market infrastructure, positioning blockchain as part of the country’s economic operating layer.The Blockchain Center Abu Dhabi has collaborated with Binance as a co-author, recognizing Binance’s role in building institutional-grade digital asset infrastructure within the UAE’s regulated environment.The UAE’s blockchain story is increasingly defined by execution rather than experimentation. A new flagship research report released by The Blockchain Center Abu Dhabi highlights the country’s transition toward regulated, large-scale blockchain deployment across finance, governance, and public-sector efficiency. At the center of that shift is layered regulatory design which has created the conditions for institutions to move beyond pilots and begin integrating blockchain into payments, tokenization, custody, and market infrastructure.As part of this initiative, The Blockchain Center Abu Dhabi has collaborated with Binance as a co-author, recognizing Binance’s evolution from a global crypto exchange to a core provider of institutional-grade digital asset infrastructure globally and within the UAE’s regulatory environment.From Experimentation to Execution at National ScaleThe report highlights that the UAE has moved into an execution phase defined by scale, regulatory clarity, and institutional adoption. Domestic payment systems processed over AED 20 trillion in transfers in the first ten months of 2025, while the UAE continues to rank among the world’s largest remittance-origin countries.The report also cites a set of behavioral and market indicators that shape demand for modern settlement rails, including that 95% of UAE residents send international remittances at least once per year, more than 71% of UAE e-commerce payments are completed using cards or mobile wallets, and cross-border flows supported by the UAE economy exceed $40 billion annually. Against this backdrop, blockchain use cases are increasingly acknowledged as tools that can improve settlement speed, transparency, and operational efficiency when deployed responsibly.A Shift Toward Institutional Market StructureThe core theme revolves around structural shift in the UAE’s blockchain ecosystem. It has evolved from early-stage startups to a dense, institutional landscape spanning regulated exchanges and custodians, payment providers, tokenization platforms, infrastructure vendors, enterprise solution providers, banks, and multinational technology firms.Commenting on the findings, Abdulla Al Dhaheri, CEO of The Blockchain Center Abu Dhabi, said: “The UAE has created an environment where regulators, financial institutions, and technology providers can work together to deploy blockchain in a controlled and meaningful way. The result is an ecosystem focused on real use cases, regulatory clarity, and long-term financial infrastructure.”He added that the report captures the transition from experimentation to supervised deployment, showing how global platforms such as Binance are increasingly participating within locally regulated market structures rather than operating on the periphery.Blockchain as Economic InfrastructureThe report positions blockchain as national economic infrastructure, comparing its trajectory to other foundational technologies that reshaped economies. It highlights regulated deployments across real-world asset tokenization, stablecoins and AED-backed tokenized deposits, payments and wholesale settlement platforms, and blockchain-powered trade, logistics, and government services.Digital public infrastructure is also scaling in parallel. The UAE Pass serves 11 million users and has processed over 2.5 billion authentications, reflecting the scale of digital identity usage across the country. This further points to the role of sovereign and quasi-sovereign capital – with more than $2.5 trillion in assets under management – in supporting and scaling compliant blockchain initiatives.Binance Within the UAE’s Institutional Blockchain FrameworkThe UAE’s emphasis on regulated, large-scale digital asset infrastructure is reflected by choosing Binance to operate locally as an ADGM FSRA-regulated entity. MGX’s $2 billion investment into Binance in 2025, executed using regulated stablecoin infrastructure, is another signal of the UAE’s commitment to production-grade digital finance and its growing credibility as a hub for globally scaled platforms.Tarik Erk, Regional Head for MENAT and Senior Executive Officer, Abu Dhabi at Binance, said: “What distinguishes the UAE is not just innovation, but execution within a regulated, institutional-grade framework. This research reflects how blockchain is now being deployed across payments, tokenization, custody, and market infrastructure as part of the country’s core economic systems. Binance’s participation in this initiative reflects our long-term commitment to operating within these structures and supporting the UAE’s vision for secure, scalable, and compliant blockchain infrastructure that serves real economic use cases.”Final ThoughtsThis report presents the UAE as a global benchmark for moving blockchain from promise to production, showing what becomes possible when regulation, capital, and ecosystem coordination reinforce each other. The shift to real deployments becomes practical when there’s a market structure that has clear rules, credible supervision, and institutional participation that make blockchain systems dependable enough to support real economic activity at national scale, and relevant enough to compete globally.At Binance, our focus is to support this next phase in practice through regulated operations, institutional-grade infrastructure, and ecosystem partnerships that help blockchain move from pilots to services people and institutions can rely on.Further ReadingKGST and the Next Step for Digital Money in Central AsiaBank of Bahrain And Kuwait and Binance Bahrain Pave The Way for a CaaS Integration With Landmark MOUBinance at Goals House Davos 2026 – Blockchain Use Cases for Financial Inclusion

Main TakeawaysMacro and geopolitical swings drove sharp risk-off/risk-on rotations in January, with key technical levels in focus for near-term direction.Desk flows point to stablecoins becoming the market’s primary liquidity and conversion rail, led by USDT/USDC and supported by growing activity in newer stablecoins.For large or time-sensitive trades, Binance OTC & Execution Services provides high-touch execution with deep liquidity, competitive spreads, and flexible settlement options.Welcome to the first Binance OTC (Over-the-Counter) & Execution Services monthly digest. In this edition, we recap how in January, shifting macro and geopolitical headlines drove a mid-month rebound and late-month selloff, share what our desk activity signals about stablecoins’ expanding role in liquidity and settlement, and close with a real client example showing how fast, discreet OTC execution helped protect principal during a downturn, followed by a quick overview of the OTC & Execution Services toolkit.2026 Market Volatility: Crypto Faces Headwinds Amid Safe Haven RallyJanuary brought sharp swings across crypto and commodities. Bitcoin climbed near $98,000 in mid-January before pulling back to its prior range of $84,000–$94,000 range as investors weighed macroeconomic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions. Gold and silver hit consecutive all-time highs amid increased safe-haven demand before reversing course by month-end. The Federal Reserve maintained rates at 3.75% in January. Bitcoin ended the month below $80,000, correlating closely with US tech equities during the selloff. What We Are Seeing on the Desk: Stablecoin Adoption2025 marked a significant milestone for stablecoins, with mainstream adoption accelerating rapidly as highlighted by Binance Research’s recent Full-Year 2025 & Themes for 2026 industry report. Our OTC desks reflect the same sentiment. In 2025 and into January 2026, USDT and USDC continued to drive activity, with newer stablecoins such as RLUSD, USD1, $U, and XUSD also contributing to sustained momentum. The pattern suggests the trend will continue to build throughout 2026, underscoring the growing role stablecoins play as key liquidity tools in the evolving crypto economy. OTC Volume Breakdown in January 2026 Beyond stablecoins, our desk remains active across a diverse range of crypto assets like BTC, ETH, SOL, alongside altcoins such as APT, EGLD, MCH, RENDER, TRX, with continued demand for crypto-to-crypto pairs. This breadth of activity reflects ongoing interest in a wide spectrum of digital assets.We also facilitated stablecoin and fiat conversions across multiple currencies, including ARS, BHD, EUR, JPY, KZT, MXN, RON, USD. Overall, while stablecoins volume was prominent, the diversity of crypto and fiat activity points to continued appetite for both established and emerging crypto assets, including crypto-to-crypto pairs, highlighting the fluid and multi-faceted nature of market engagement.Liquidating Crypto Collateral in a Downturn: How an OTC BTC/JPY Trade Protected PrincipalIn volatile markets, timely and efficient liquidation can make all the difference – especially during market downturns like one we have recently seen. Recently, we supported a lender who held crypto as collateral. The client approached Binance’s OTC desk needing to liquidate their collateral quickly and securely. Thanks to our deep liquidity pool, tight spreads, and fast settlement process, we were able to facilitate the transaction smoothly. Specifically, we executed a BTC/JPY trade with significantly better pricing than available on traditional exchanges.We were able to provide a competitive rate with a spread that was less than a third of that on the market. This not only protected the client’s principal but also ensured they could process payments promptly without incurring heavy costs.Remarkably, settlement was completed within 10 minutes after the trade was executed, allowing the client to withdraw funds almost immediately, an outcome critical in fast-moving markets.This example underscores how OTC trading with its privacy, deep liquidity, and speed can be invaluable for clients needing to act decisively amid high market uncertainty. What is Binance OTC & Execution ServicesBinance OTC & Execution Services is a premier one-stop solution for executing large or complex trades with confidence and discretion. Binance OTC supports all assets listed on our spot market, including direct pairs and cross pairs, totaling over 445 different crypto and fiat assets – the largest selection of OTC trading pairs in the industry.Key benefits include:Zero exchange fees and market-competitive spreads  Experienced traders managing orders with institutional-grade execution 24/7 access to the industry’s deepest liquidity  Flexible settlement options and no upper size limitsBinance OTC and Execution Services offers a wide range of capabilities depending on your objectives. In the coming months, we’ll be publishing a series of guides on how you can leverage our suite of tools, including Request for Quote (RFQ), Indication of Interest (IOI), and Algorithmic Direct Market Access (Algo DMA).Unlock Binance VIP Status Through OTC & Execution ServicesWhen users execute a minimum of USD 200,000 in OTC volume within a 30-day period, they can also fast track their eligibility for Binance VIP. Being a Binance VIP grants exclusive access to lower, tier-based platform fees, dedicated key account coverage, 24/7 priority support, and more. Final ThoughtsJanuary reinforced how quickly crypto sentiment can flip as macro and geopolitical narratives evolve, making execution quality, speed, and certainty increasingly important. At the same time, our desk data highlights stablecoins’ continued rise as the default bridge between crypto and fiat, supporting both risk management and operational settlement. As volatility persists, structured OTC workflows can help clients convert, rebalance, or liquidate efficiently while minimizing market impact and maintaining discretion.Further ReadingWhat Is the Binance VIP Program? Benefits, Tiers & How to Join Binance VIP & Institutional ProgramBinance Launches OTC VIP Program  Introducing Binance Indication of Interest (IOI) – the Essential Liquidity Discovery Tool for Institutional Crypto TradersBinance Execution Services - Faster, More Efficient Trading for Large-Volume Crypto Orders  Disclaimer: Digital asset prices can be volatile. The value of your investment may go down or up and you may not get back the amount invested. You are solely responsible for your investment decisions and Binance is not liable for any losses you may incur. Options trading, in particular, is subject to high market risk and price volatility. Past performance is not a reliable predictor of future performance. There is no guarantee that an IOI will result in a binding transaction. An IOI is not a market order. Binance does not act as your adviser or agent. Before trading, you should make an independent assessment of the appropriateness of the transaction in light of your own objectives and circumstances, including the risks and potential benefits. Consult your own advisers, where appropriate. This information should not be construed as financial or investment advice. To learn more about how to protect yourself, visit our Responsible Trading page. For more information, see our Terms of Use and Risk Warning.

Main TakeawaysBinance Pay’s partnership with Scan To Pay brings crypto payments to 650,000+ businesses across South Africa, adding to Binance Pay’s global network of more than 20 million merchants.Use 100+ cryptocurrencies to pay at Scan To Pay merchants, from fashion to bills, enjoying instant payments with zero gas fees via Binance Pay.This collaboration improves accessibility by connecting Binance Pay to local payment rails people already use, with fast and transparent settlement.Binance Pay is partnering with Scan To Pay, a digital payment network, to expand access across South Africa. Through this integration, more than 650,000 businesses in Scan To Pay’s merchant network will be able to accept cryptocurrency via Binance Pay, building on its existing global network of more than 20 million merchants.Where to use Binance Pay x Scan to Pay?With Binance Pay, you can spend stablecoins and other cryptocurrencies on Scan To Pay’s merchant network for everyday spending, from fuel and pharmacies to fashion and more.Fill Up at EngenEngen, one of South Africa’s largest fuel station networks with 1,000+ outlets, is part of the Scan To Pay merchant ecosystem, which means you can use Binance Pay to fill your tank at participating locations.Health and Beauty at ClicksClicks is South Africa’s leading pharmacy, health, and beauty retailer, with 990+ stores and 780 in-store pharmacies. With Binance Pay accepted across Scan To Pay’s network, you can pay for essentials and everyday purchases using crypto at Clicks.Fashion, Footwear, and Daily ShoppingFrom footwear to streetwear, Scan To Pay supports a wide range of fashion merchants, including brands like Birkenstock South Africa, Cotton On, Crocs South Africa, Chanel, and Under Armour South Africa. Through our collaboration with Scan To Pay, crypto expands as a practical payment option for more day-to-day shopping.Pay Bills Easily with EasyPayBeyond shopping, Binance Pay can now be used to handle bill payments and services with crypto such as electricity and municipal-related payments on EasyPay with the same QR-style flow as Scan To Pay.Stay Connected with VodacomTelco payments are part of everyday life. With Binance Pay available through Scan To Pay’s network, you can use crypto for Vodacom (a major telecommunications company) payments and top-ups.Parking at Shopping CentersThis integration also extends to everyday payments like shopping center parking, making it easier to use Binance Pay for small, frequent transactions within Scan To Pay-supported locations.How to Use Scan to Pay on Binance Pay?Follow the steps below to make instant, zero-fee Binance Pay payments across Scan To Pay merchants.Click on the [Scan QR Code to Pay] widget on your Binance homepage to open the QR code scanner. If you don’t see the widget, you can add it by long-pressing the widget area, tapping [+], then scrolling down to select [Scan to Pay].Scan any Scan to Pay-supported merchant’s QR code using Binance Pay.To pay, select from 100+ cryptocurrencies.Confirm payment.Final ThoughtsBy integrating Binance Pay with Scan To Pay, through our partnership with Money Badger, we’re expanding everyday crypto spending across South Africa through a familiar QR payments flow, broadening our merchant network by more than 650,000 businesses. This collaboration also reflects our focus on accessibility by working with regional payment rails that are already familiar to users to deliver fast and transparent settlement. As more merchants and users adopt these tools, crypto is gradually evolving from something you hold to something you can use daily.Further ReadingBinance Pay Surpasses 20 Million Merchants as Stablecoin Adoption AcceleratesBinance Pay Partners with Zapper to Unlock 31,000 Merchants in South Africa Your 2025 End-of-Year Holiday Gift Guide With Binance PayDisclaimer: Digital asset prices can be volatile. The value of your investment may go down or up and you may not get back the amount invested. You are solely responsible for your investment decisions and Binance is not liable for any losses you may incur. Please fund your wallet and perform your transactions cautiously. Not financial advice. For more information, see our Terms of Use, Binance Pay Terms of Use and Risk Warning.

Main TakeawaysAccessing DApps can expose users to newer, unvetted projects that require proactive security measures.Binance Wallet Security Center is an in-app dashboard that provides real-time risk detection, instant alerts, and clear guidance.Real-time scans alert you to missing backups, malicious tokens, dangerous approvals, and fraudulent addresses before you interact with them.Web3 wallets allow users to access DeFi applications directly without an intermediary, but that access comes with tradeoffs. Bad actors exist in every sector, and Web3 is no exception. Connect to the wrong app – and your wallet can be drained in a matter of seconds. Getting outside of a centralized exchange environment to explore the world of Web3 exposes you to thousands of lesser-known projects that haven't undergone strict vetting processes. Some can carry significant risks such as malicious smart contracts with hidden backdoors or rug pull mechanisms that lock your funds.To help safeguard your Web3 journey, we launched the Binance Wallet Security Center – a dashboard that identifies, assesses, and helps you manage threats across the DeFi landscape.What is Binance Wallet Security Center Binance Wallet Security Center is a central hub for users to manage their wallet safety. Here, you’ll find essential security tools, FAQs, and educational resources in one place. One of the most useful features available to you is Security Scan. Beyond acting as an information hub, Binance Wallet Security Center monitors your wallet in real time for potential risks including suspicious addresses, risky assets, and abnormal permissions. The homepage displays green when no risks are detected (picture on the left), while active risks (as pictured on the right) appear in red when action is needed.Security Center HomepageClicking [Check Now] gives you a summary of each detected risk and actionable advice to keep your wallet safe. Security Scan: Four Layers of ProtectionSecurity Scan monitors four key areas of your wallet:Wallet Security: Checks if your wallet is properly backed up and secure, alerts you to missing backups, unauthorized access attempts, or abnormal permissions before they become problems. Asset Security: Analyzes every asset in your wallet and watchlist; flags risky assets, such as tokens with malicious smart contracts, helping you find out if that meme coin can actually be sold before you buy it.Approval Security: Reviews all active approvals connected to your wallet, helping you see which ones are dangerous, excessive, or unnecessary, and revoke them instantly.Transaction Security: Examines your transaction history and on-chain interactions to detect potential threats, helping you avoid sending assets to risky or fraudulent addresses; acts as a safety check for common on-chain mistakes, such as interacting with suspicious destinations.How to Access Binance Wallet Security Center?Open the settings page by tapping the menu icon in the top-left corner of the Binance Wallet homepage, then select [Security Center].Final ThoughtsFull control over your assets and private keys come with increased responsibility. Binance Wallet Security Center helps you take control and secure your Web3 journey, allowing you to find essential security tools and educational resources in one dashboard, and review and manage your wallet’s overall security in real time. Binance Wallet Security Center reflects our focus on building a safer Web3 ecosystem. We continue investing in tools that help you explore DeFi with confidence, but the best defense starts with you. Understanding best security practices is no longer optional. Stay vigilant and stay informed!Secure Your Web3 Journey NowFurther ReadingWeb3 Wallet Security – Stay SAFU with Binance MPC Wallet4 Critical Tools to Enhance the Security of Your Binance AccountThe Liquidity Flywheel That Powered Binance to 300 Million UsersDisclaimer: Digital asset prices are subject to high market risk and price volatility. The value of your investment may go down or up, and you may not get back the amount invested. You are solely responsible for your investment decisions and Binance is not liable for any losses you may incur. Past performance is not a reliable predictor of future performance. You should only invest in products you are familiar with and where you understand the risks. You should carefully consider your investment experience, financial situation, investment objectives and risk tolerance and consult an independent financial adviser prior to making any investment. This material should not be construed as financial advice. For more information, see our Terms of Use and Risk Warning.

Main TakeawaysBinance has renewed its partnership with Islamabad United as the Official Crypto Exchange Partner for PSL Season 11.The partnership will continue fan-focused initiatives that advance blockchain education in Pakistan.New Pakistani users can receive a PKR 1,000 welcome reward between February 4-15, 2026, subject to eligibility requirements.Binance has renewed its partnership with Islamabad United as the Official Crypto Exchange Partner for Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 11. Building on a successful inaugural collaboration in PSL Season 10, Binance will retain its back-of-shirt jersey placement for the second consecutive year.By engaging cricket fans across the country, Binance and Islamabad United will collaborate on fan-focused initiatives that promote blockchain education while continuing to support Pakistan’s broader crypto community through responsible digital engagement.Supporting Pakistan’s Growing Digital-asset EcosystemPakistan remains a key market for Binance – home to a young, tech-savvy population increasingly exploring digital assets. Following Binance’s No-Objection Certificate from PVARA, this renewal reflects Binance’s long-term commitment to fostering a safe, sustainable crypto ecosystem in the country.“Cricket is deeply woven into Pakistan’s culture, and Islamabad United gives us an incredible platform to engage with millions of passionate fans across the country,” said Tarik Erk, Binance’s Regional Head for MENAT and Senior Executive Officer, Abu Dhabi. “Following our No-Objection Certificate from PVARA, renewing this partnership signals our long-term commitment to Pakistan’s digital-asset ecosystem. We’re excited to build on last year’s success and continue making blockchain technology accessible to communities nationwide.”“Binance has been an excellent partner, and we’re thrilled to have them back for PSL 11. This collaboration allows us to connect our passionate fanbase with new opportunities in the digital space. As champions on the field, we’re equally committed to being at the forefront of innovation off it, and this partnership reflects that vision,” said a spokesperson for Islamabad United.Welcome Reward for New Pakistani UsersTo celebrate the partnership renewal, Binance is offering new Pakistani users an exclusive welcome reward between February 4 and 15, 2026. New users who sign up through the Binance app using the referral code “MakeYourMove” and complete verification will receive PKR 1,000 to start exploring digital assets.Final ThoughtsIslamabad United remains the most successful franchise in PSL history, having won three championship titles. The team’s commitment to innovation and excellence aligns with Binance’s focus on making blockchain technology more accessible, while supporting responsible engagement across Pakistan’s growing digital-asset ecosystem.Further ReadingBinance and Pakistan Partner to Advance Digital-Asset Innovation and Regulatory DevelopmentBinance Academy Partners With Pakistan's Ministry of IT and Telecom to Revolutionize Blockchain EducationBinance Donates $150,000 to Alkhidmat Foundation to Support Flood Relief Efforts in PakistanTerms & ConditionsCampaign is valid for specified dates only and open to Pakistan residents.Only the first 1,000 winners will be rewarded. Up to 100 winners will be selected each day during the campaign period.Participants must be 18+ years and eligible as per Binance Terms of Use.Only new Binance users registered during the campaign period qualify.Users must complete account verification to be eligible for rewards.Existing Binance users are not eligible.Rewards are limited, non-transferable, and not redeemable for cash.Binance reserves the right to substitute rewards of equal value if required.Any fraudulent activity, multiple accounts, or misuse will result in disqualification.Binance may suspend or terminate accounts found violating campaign rules.Winner selection (if applicable) is final and at Binance’s discretion.Binance may modify, extend, or end the campaign without prior notice.Participation implies acceptance of Binance’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.Disclaimer: Digital assets are subject to high market risk and price volatility. The value of your investment may go down or up, and you may not get back the amount invested. You are solely responsible for your investment decisions and Binance is not liable for any losses you may incur.

Key TakeawaysOctober 10 was a market flash crash, primarily driven by macroeconomic factors, market makers’ risk protocols, and network congestion.Binance’s core systems were fully operational throughout the market shock. There was no platform-wide downtime nor glitch, and all core matching, risk checks, and clearing functions continued without interruption.Binance has taken responsibility for two platform-specific incidents; the two issues did not cause the flash crash.On October 10, 2025, the crypto market faced a macro shock. While some placed the blame on a Binance glitch, the reality was that cascading liquidations were driven by macro risks from highly leveraged positions, market makers’ risk controls limiting liquidity, and Ethereum network congestion delaying transfers. In this blog, we’ll be sharing the facts to be fully transparent and acknowledge where our platform faced strain.The Macro SetupFollowing headlines related to the trade war, global financial markets fell sharply, with virtually every asset class impacted. Crypto, having rallied for months into early October and carrying elevated leverage, was particularly exposed. Across the derivatives market, positions were near record levels, with BTC futures and options open interest exceeding $100 billion. On-chain data showed most Bitcoin holders were sitting on profits – conditions ripe for rapid profit-taking and forced deleveraging once a shock hit. The impact wasn’t confined to crypto: U.S. equity markets shed roughly $1.5 trillion in value that day, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq enduring their largest single-day drops in six months and $150 billion in systemic liquidations.Extreme Market Movement Triggered Market Makers’ Risk ControlsAs the sell-off intensified, the extreme market movement triggered market makers’ algorithmic risk controls and circuit breakers and automatically started to manage inventory and reduce exposure. This behavior, while expected under extreme volatility, temporarily pulled liquidity from order books. According to the order book depth from Kaiko's data (figure 1), ‘BTC liquidity was zero or near zero at every level’ on some exchanges — except for Binance, Crypto.com, and Kraken, major exchanges had almost no bid orders within a 4% price spread. This thinning meant that each additional forced sell moved prices more than usual. On top of that, cross‑venue risk management and arbitrage across exchanges were impaired.Figure 1: BTC Minimum Depth Dries Up, Causing Spreads to Widen Significantly During the October 10 CrashSource: Kaiko, Binance Research (Pairs: BTC-USDT, BTC-USDC, BTC-USD - based on average values per minute on October 10, 2025)Network CongestionA compounding factor in the October 10 flash crash was blockchain congestion on Ethereum which caused gas fees to spike from single digits to over 100 gwei at times and delayed block confirmation, slowing arbitrage and cross-platforms flows. In an already thin market, this widened spreads and made position rebalancing even more difficult, creating a brief liquidity vacuum that amplified price swings. Until selling pressure eased and markets stabilized, it was difficult to rebalance between exchanges or to deploy liquidity where it was most needed.Implications Across MarketIn the thinnest markets, even modest orders impact the order book, creating sharp “wicks” on charts. Mechanical selling and forced liquidations amplified price movements, while slowed arbitrage and cross‑venue transfers widened temporary price gaps. Some pegged or derivative tokens briefly decoupled from their reference values, reflecting the same stresses: thin liquidity, rapid flow, and delayed capital movement.Like All Exchanges, Binance Faced Strain Processing High Volume Under Extreme Market ConditionsThe October 10 dislocation was a systemic, macro‑driven risk‑off move. That said, we acknowledge that parts of the Binance platform experienced temporary strain under extreme market conditions and have compensated impacted users, and strengthened safeguards. Importantly, Binance’s platform-specific issues did not cause the flash crash. With the highest-volatility window between 21:10–21:20 UTC, roughly 75% of the day’s liquidations had already taken place before the widely-reported three-token depeg (USDe, BNSOL, WBETH) occurred at 21:36 UTC. This timing shows that most deleveraging happened during the initial macro shock which started at 20:50 UTC, when forced liquidations accelerated price declines amid thinning order books.This confirms that the primary driver was a market-wide risk-off and liquidation reflexivity, not platform-specific anomalies. Binance’s core matching engine, risk checks, and clearing systems remained fully operational without interruption throughout.The following detail our findings of the two incidents:Incident 1: Asset transfer subsystem degradation (21:18-21:51 UTC)During the peak of the sell‑off, our internal asset‑transfer subsystem slowed for about 33 minutes. This affected moving some funds between Spot, Earn, and Futures. Core matching, risk checks, and clearing continued operating; the disruption was confined to the transfer path and its dependents. A small number of users also saw balances display as “0” in the UI when backend calls failed; this was a fallback display issue, not a loss of funds.Root cause: a performance regression on a hot read path to the asset database that surfaced under surge load. One frequently called API lacked an effective cache and read directly from the database. Under traffic 5-10x normal, database connections saturated, thread pools backed up waiting for connections, and timeouts rippled outward. A prior cloud‑provider version upgrade had also removed a built‑in query‑caching behavior, reducing headroom for this specific query under stress.Remediation: We have fully compensated all eligible users who were impacted by this incident during the 21:18-21:51 UTC window based on system logs and documented attempts.To resolve the incident, we’re adding caching, expanding database capacity and replicas, optimizing connections, separating critical functions, and improving UI fallbacks.Incident 2: Index deviations for USDe, WBETH, and BNSOL (21:36-22:15 UTC)After order‑book depth thinned across the market and on‑chain congestion slowed cross‑venue rebalancing, the indices for USDe, then WBETH and BNSOL, deviated abnormally from expected values. The combination of thin local liquidity, accelerated liquidations, and slower cross‑venue flows meant that temporary moves on our venue carried too much weight in the index calculation during stress.Root cause: Index inputs for these 3 tokens were overweight on our own order books and not sufficiently anchored to underlying reference values (especially for wrapped/staked tokens), while outlier/deviation guards were not tight enough for a fast‑moving, thin market. Remediation: We tightened parameters during stabilization and immediately began a methodology update for these 3 tokens. All impacted users have been fully compensated.K-line display: On 12 October (UTC) we had announced and implemented a front-end display update,  to optimize K-line charts display price data. This was in consideration of the $0 wick for ATOM/USDT and IOTX/USDT that occurred during a period of extremely low liquidity, where due to intense sell pressure, the system matched legacy bid orders from 2019, resulting in a one-off candlestick reflecting the artificially low price. This was a UI adjustment and did not affect any actual trading data or API information. Some misunderstood it as an attempt to alter data and upon receiving community feedback, we promptly rolled back the update. Binance has never, and never will tamper with actual trading or historical data. Putting Our Users FirstIn addition to technological improvements, as of October 22, 2025, we have fully compensated eligible users impacted by both incidents above and credited them with over US$328 million.As previously announced, Binance launched the Together Initiative on October 14, a US$300 million discretionary goodwill program, designed to provide support to users impacted by the flash crash yet did not qualify for compensation as they were not directly impacted by Binance’s platform issues above, and a US$100 million low‑interest loan fund for institutional participants severely affected by market conditions to stabilize operations. Binance will continue to prioritize user protection and the steady development of the industry, and will continue to invest and build upon its efforts to promote the long-term healthy development of the crypto ecosystem.Further ReadingBinance Launches the $400 Million “Together Initiative” to Support Market Recovery and Restore ConfidenceResolution of USDe, BNSOL, and WBETH Price Depeg and Risk Control EnhancementsStatement on Recent Market Volatility and Latest Progress Update on User Protection MeasuresDisclaimer and risk warning: The compensation plans and Together Initiative described herein is provided only to eligible users on a goodwill basis in Binance’s sole discretion, without admission of fault or liability by Binance. It does not waive any of Binance’s rights or create any obligation on Binance to provide compensation or restitution in similar or future circumstances, or on any other claim, issue or matter relating to or arising from the aforementioned incident. Nothing in the compensation plans, the Together Initiative nor this communication shall constitute financial advice, or any form of guarantee. The determination of eligible users and compensation amounts will be a final determination made and calculated by Binance. Any claim beyond, outside of or in addition to the compensation plans or Together Initiative shall be separately submitted to Binance and evaluated on a case-by-case basis, in respect of which all of Binance’s rights remain reserved. Digital asset prices are subject to high market risk and price volatility. The value of your investments can go down or up, and you may not get back the amount invested. You are solely responsible for your investment decisions and Binance is not liable for any losses you may incur. Past performance is not a reliable predictor of future performance. You should only invest in products you are familiar with and where you understand the risks. You should carefully consider your investment experience, financial situation, investment objectives and risk tolerance and consult an independent financial adviser prior to making any investment. To learn more about how to protect yourself, visit our Responsible Trading resource page. For more information, see our Terms of Use and Risk Warning.

Main TakeawaysWorking at Binance isn’t for everyone. This article is an honest take on what it feels like to work in a high-bar, high-tempo environment built around our five core values. Our values show up in our work daily: protecting users, reducing friction, staying fast and autonomous, taking direct feedback, and collaborating globally without bloated meetings.If this pace energizes you, read on to understand how we work and what we expect, then explore open roles on our careers page.If you’re looking for a predictable routine, comfortable certainty, and a job that stays neatly inside the lines, this is your sign to close the tab. Binance is a high-performance, results-driven place where ownership is real and execution speed matters. While it may appeal to some, it may be the deal-breaker for others.Still here? Below are five reasons you might not want to join Binance, each tied to a core value – and each a feature if you are the kind of builder who thrives here. For a quick peek, hit play on our culture video below to see it in motion.Freedom: Not Your Typical 9-5Since Binance is global and remote-first, adapting time zones are part of the job. If you love neat calendars, predictable hours, and everyone online at the same time, this will test your patience and your planning skills.But here’s the fun part: “Freedom” at Binance is real. You’re trusted to manage your schedule and your output, which means you can build a rhythm that actually fits your life. Some days run long, some hours are weird, and sometimes, that’s exactly what makes it great.If you are a night owl, you can build your rhythm around it. If you want to hit the gym at 2pm and enjoy an empty pilates class, go for it. When you see a cheap flight home on a Monday instead of a Sunday, take it. The point isn’t “always on,” it’s high trust: you own your time, your outcomes, and your impact. If you want rigid structure handed to you, this will feel chaotic. If you want autonomy and can handle the accountability that comes with it, it’s hard to beat.Humility: Feedback is Part of the JobAt Binance, you’re trusted to take ownership and make calls without someone hovering over your shoulder. The catch is you’re also seriously accountable. From the outside, that can look intense: you’ll own complex work, escalate messy issues, coordinate decisions across teams, and stay open to feedback even when it’s a little humbling.If you need feedback to be gentle, indirect, or wrapped in a compliment sandwich, you’ll struggle. Sometimes you’ll get a message that basically says, “Not good enough yet.” Sometimes someone more junior will spot your mistake, in a group chat, with receipts. If your default mode is defensiveness, Binance will be a frustrating place to be.Humility here is practical: take a breath, say “good catch,” fix it, and ship the better version. You don’t point fingers or blame the process, or treat disagreement like drama.While it can be uncomfortable, it can also be a turning point. You can get better fast when you stop spending energy protecting your pride and start spending it to improve the work at hand.Collaboration: Less Hierarchy, More MomentumBinance isn’t a top-down place where decisions wait politely for titles to weigh in. Teams are empowered, adaptable, and expected to move fast. So if you rely on strict chains of command, or you’re used to alignment coming from seniority rather than results, our flat hierarchy will feel unfamiliar.Collaboration here is straightforward: shared goals, honest communication, and a bias toward action, often asynchronous. Speed at this scale comes from being direct, making clear inquiries, giving the right context, and pulling in the right people at the right moment.In practice, it looks like this: you ask, provide context, and follow up fast until it’s resolved. Instead of dragging half the organization into a meeting to “align,” you’re expected to write things down, make decisions visible, and move the work forward in a way others can build on. In an asynchronous environment, trust is built through follow-through. Even if you have never met a teammate in person, you’ll feel the strength of collaboration when the work ships and the outcome is clear.If you love structure for structure’s sake, you’ll feel friction. If you love sharp teammates who move quickly and stay focused on the team outcome, you’ll thrive. Of course, when teams are empowered to move, the pace gets real, fast.Hardcore: Build While You RunCrypto never sleeps. That means you’re always learning, iterating quickly, and getting comfortable with a little uncertainty. Our “Hardcore” value is about resilience, urgency, and building with focus in a fast-moving environment.If your ideal workday requires perfect clarity before you start, this won’t feel like a fit. There are moments when the right answer isn’t obvious, the situation is evolving in real time, with the expectation to run. You build a playbook while you’re running it. Amid ambiguity, you make the call, test it, iterate fast.Day to day, “Hardcore” looks like this: you pick the highest-impact problem and get moving. You ship the first useful version, then improve it fast. You work hard, stay curious, and keep your energy pointed at outcomes. When something doesn’t land, you don’t spiral or stall. You learn fast, fix what broke, and get back up with a better approach.The upside is that when you deliver, people notice. You need a growth mindset that can take the pressure, learn quickly, and keep momentum when things are moving fast and not fully defined.The reason we push this hard is that the end game is always the user. User-Focused: Our North StarIf you’re not excited about building things that are genuinely useful for users, this probably isn’t your playground. At Binance, when your work goes live, real people use what you ship, every day, at scale.Being “User-Focused” is the job. You’ll obsess over edge cases because users shouldn’t pay for our assumptions. You’ll rewrite a copy until it’s crystal clear because clarity protects people. You’ll fight to remove friction because users’ time matters. And you’ll take pride in the invisible work, the safeguards, improvements, and fixes that keep users secure and their trust intact.If you’re chasing recognition more than outcomes, you might miss the point, because satisfying users is our end game. But if you love making things smoother, safer, and more reliable for users, you’ll fit right in.Final Thoughts: Binance is Not for EveryoneBinance’s vision is to increase the freedom of money globally, and we don’t take that lightly. This culture is built for people who have high standards, real ownership, and work that ships into the real world.Here’s the last reality check: if you’re after comfort, predictability, and low-stakes days, you’ll probably be happier elsewhere. But if you want a role that stretches you, trusts you, and keeps you interested because the impact is real, you might have found your place.Comfort seekers, skip this. Builders, come exchange the world. Explore open roles at binance.com/careers now! Further ReadingNaomi's Binance Seeds Story – Learning Fast, Leading Early, Transitioning WellMaking It Count: How Bola Turned a Short-Term Opportunity With Binance Into a Full-Time WinHow Binancians Are Fostering Accountability Through Radical Candor

Main TakeawaysBinance Case Challenge Season 2.0 drew 527 team submissions from 1,581 MBA students across 25 top-tier Indian business schools, reflecting growing interest in Web3 and digital assets among India’s future business leaders.The top three teams presented at Binance Blockchain Week 2025 in Dubai, bringing student-led research and market ideas to a global audience of builders, policymakers, and industry leaders.This season focused on a practical adoption question for India: why equity market participation is high while participation in digital assets remains relatively low, and what solutions could help close this gap.On December 4, 2025, Binance concluded the Grand Finale of Binance Case Challenge Season 2.0, building on our engagement with India’s academic community and our longer-term focus on supporting the next generation of Web3 talent. This year, finalists from leading Indian universities presented on the Innovation Stage at Coca-Cola Arena during Binance Blockchain Week 2025, giving students the chance to share ideas on a global platform that brought together builders, policymakers, and innovators across the industry.A National Case Challenge Built Around a Real Adoption QuestionReceiving 527 team submissions from 1,581 MBA students across 25 top-tier Indian business schools, season 2.0 saw a sharp increase in participation and depth – up from 61 teams from 10 institutions in the first season.The central question was grounded in India’s financial landscape: Why does the country have a significantly larger base of equity investors compared to the relatively small pool of individuals participating in virtual digital assets (VDAs)? Students were asked to propose actionable ideas touching market behavior, product design, AI-driven insights, regulatory understanding, and community engagement.To evaluate submissions at scale while maintaining rigor, the competition used a multi-stage process that combined AI-driven screening, expert assessment, virtual pitches, and jury review, eventually identifying three finalists:The Misfits – SPJIMR MumbaiTeam Cryptoknights – IIM BangaloreTeam Tokken3 – IIM LucknowSupporting Young Talent With Global ExposureFor the three finalist teams, the case challenge continued with a trip to Dubai and a live Grand Finale at Binance Blockchain Week, where they presented their ideas to a global audience. The jury included S.B. Seker, Head of APAC at Binance, and Staci Warden, CEO of the Algorand Foundation, and teams were assessed through a seven-minute pitch and a three-minute Q&A focused on regulatory awareness, feasibility, user insight, storytelling, and strategic clarity.The winning team, The CryptoKnights from IIM Bangalore, received USD 10,000; the First Runner-Up, Team Tokken3 from IIM Lucknow, was awarded USD 6,000; and the Second Runner-Up, The Misfits from SPJIMR Mumbai, received USD 4,000, recognizing their research, insight, and innovative thinking.Rachel Conlan, Global Chief Marketing Officer at Binance, shared that the Case Challenge demonstrated the scale of talent emerging from India and why the country is poised to shape the industry’s next chapter. “Bringing them to Blockchain Week is intentional – it puts their ideas in front of global builders, regulators, and innovators, and that is where real learning happens. The clarity and ambition these students showed reaffirm our belief that the future of this industry will be shaped by sharp, informed thinkers who understand both innovation and responsibility.”S.B. Seker, Head of APAC, Binance, added, “What stood out this season was the level of research and clarity in the students’ thinking. Their proposals balanced ambition with a strong understanding of India’s regulatory and economic realities. It’s encouraging to see this depth of talent, and it reinforces the importance of investing in platforms that give students both structure and global exposure. The ideas presented here offer valuable perspectives on how India could accelerate responsible digital-asset adoption in the years ahead.”By expanding academic partnerships, scaling structured learning initiatives, and opening global platforms to students, Binance is reinforcing India’s trajectory as a key centre for emerging Web3 talent.Final ThoughtsSeason 2.0 of Binance Case Challenge showcased how India’s next generation of business leaders is increasingly engaging with blockchain and digital assets through a practical lens – adoption barriers, user trust, product design, and regulatory realities. These are the same questions the industry has to answer if Web3 is going to expand responsibly.For us, initiatives like the Binance Case Challenge are part of our broader effort to connect education to real-world problem solving – helping build the talent base that will shape the future of digital finance.Further ReadingBinance Blockchain Yatra Reaches Ahmedabad – Gujarat’s Entrepreneurial Spirit Meets Web3 InnovationNaomi’s Binance Seeds Story – Learning Fast, Leading Early, Transitioning WellBinance Blockchain Week Dubai 2025: Day 2 Ends With a Bang

During periods of market volatility and pressure, the impact felt across the industry is naturally also felt by Binance. This reflects the broader challenges our industry must address as it continues to mature. As the crypto ecosystem expands and becomes more complex, expectations continue to rise – especially around governance, risk management, and responsibility.As a global industry leader, we hold ourselves to higher standards and continuously work to improve and adapt – always taking feedback from our community and the wider public seriously.In 2025, as part of Binance’s ongoing investment in industry development, we carried out the following work focusing on risk control, compliance cooperation, and ecosystem building:Recovery of Incorrect Deposits: In 2025, Binance assisted users in 38,648 cases of incorrect deposit recovery, totaling $48 million. To date, Binance has helped recover a cumulative amount exceeding $1.09 billion.Risk Control and User Protection: We assisted 5.4 million users throughout the year in identifying potential risks, cumulatively preventing approximately $6.69 billion in scam-related losses.Combating Illegal Activities and Cooperation with Law Enforcement:  We collaborated with global law enforcement agencies to combat illegal activities leading to authorities confiscating $131 million in ill-gotten funds.Token Listings Distribution and Ecosystem Diversity: In 2025, Binance’s spot listing program covered 21 public blockchains, largely ETH, BSC, and SOL (32, 18, and 9 projects respectively). Among these 21 blockchains, 13 were newly launched, including blockchains for payment, gaming, social, and other use cases.Asset Transparency and Reserves: By the end of 2025, Binance’s proof-of-reserves showed user assets of approximately $162.8 billion fully backed, covering 45 different crypto assets.When questions and concerns arise, we respond with action. Through these efforts, we aim to support the industry’s long-term, sustainable growth.Guided by our belief that BTC serves as the core asset in the crypto ecosystem and represents long-term value, Binance will continue to stand alongside our industry through market cycles and uncertainty, continuously investing resources into the crypto ecosystem. Accordingly, Binance will convert the SAFU fund’s $1 billion stablecoin reserves into Bitcoin reserves, with plans to complete the conversion within 30 days of this announcement.Binance will conduct regular rebalancing of the SAFU fund based on monitoring its market value. If the fund’s market value falls below $800 million due to BTC price fluctuations, Binance will rebalance the fund to restore its value to $1 billion. This initiative forms part of Binance’s long-term commitment to industry building, and we will continue to advance related efforts and share updates with the community.Binance will continue to respond to market concerns with action, consistently participating in and promoting industry development under the principles of openness, transparency, and long-term commitment.Finally, we thank the Binance community, our users, and Binance Angels for your ongoing support and trust in Binance.

Main TakeawaysStablecoins are no longer a crypto niche, with $33 trillion in 2024 transactions marking their arrival as legitimate financial infrastructure.Emerging markets like Africa lead stablecoins adoption, surpassing traditional banking infrastructure. Industry leaders predict billions of AI agents will need a payment system within 3-5 years, and stablecoins are positioned to become the "invisible rails" for autonomous economic activityAt the 2026 World Economic Forum in Davos stablecoins took center stage as a legitimate, transformative force in global finance. With over 3,000 leaders from 125+ countries convening under the theme "Collaboration for the Intelligent Age," the consensus was clear: stablecoins have evolved from experimental technology to essential infrastructure.What captured attention at Davos was the fundamental shift in conversation: from whether stablecoins would succeed to how they would reshape payments, cross-border finance, and the very architecture of money.Stablecoins Come of Age: From Crypto Niche to Financial InfrastructurePerhaps the most symbolic moment was WEF's first-ever official panel dedicated entirely to stablecoins: "Where Are We on Stablecoins?" – a main-stage discussion featuring heavyweight voices from traditional finance, international organizations, and the crypto industry.Dan Katz, First Deputy Managing Director of the IMF, while acknowledging that the $300 billion stablecoin market remains "very, very tiny" in the context of global finance, emphasized the importance of remaining "balanced" and "open-minded" about both benefits and risks. The IMF’s perspective reflects a growing institutional acceptance: stablecoins aren't going away, so the focus must shift to establishing clear frameworks that harness their potential while managing their risks.The regulatory landscape has transformed dramatically. The passage of the U.S. GENIUS Act in 2025, Europe's MiCA framework, and similar legislation in Japan, UAE, Hong Kong, and Singapore has created areas of regulatory clarity that's giving traditional financial institutions confidence to engage. As Katz noted, the next frontier is "effective interoperability:" ensuring these national frameworks can work together to realize stablecoins' cross-border potential.Explosive Growth Meets Mainstream AdoptionJeremy Allaire, CEO and co-founder of Circle (issuer of USDC, the second-largest stablecoin by market capitalization), pushed back against suggestions that stablecoin adoption has been slow. "It depends on your definition of fast," he said, pointing to USDC's 80%+ annual growth rate over multiple years and a 580% year-over-year increase in transaction volume in Q3 of the most recent quarter.More importantly, Allaire highlighted the breadth of use case proliferation, noting how stablecoins are being integrated across the entire economic system. Cross-border trade settlement, trade finance, and remittances are all experiencing rapid stablecoin integration.Allaire also noted the role of leading platforms like Binance: "With over 300 million users, 20% of their users are in Africa – far higher penetration than the banking system in Africa. People are using it primarily as a dollar substitution mechanism, as a way to store value, make peer-to-peer payments."The Africa Story: Financial Inclusion at ScaleVera Songwe, co-founder of the Liquidity and Sustainability Facility and former UN Under-Secretary-General, brought the discussion back to stablecoins' most immediate impact: financial inclusion in emerging markets, particularly Africa.For every $100 sent in remittances to Africa, $6 disappears in transaction costs and processing delays. Remittances now triple official development assistance to the continent, making these costs a significant economic drain. Stablecoins reduce that cost to approximately $1 and settle in minutes rather than days.Songwe also emphasized stablecoins' role as a hedge in countries where annual inflation regularly exceeds 20%. "The fastest way poverty increases is inflation," she stated. "With a smartphone, you have access to a stablecoin. So you can actually save in a currency that is not exposed to the fluctuations of inflation."Interestingly, Songwe and others are working on an African stablecoin platform backed by Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) rather than solely the U.S. dollar. This would mirror Africa's diverse trading relationships while maintaining the stability benefits, potentially addressing concerns about dollar dominance while improving fiscal and monetary discipline across the continent.The AI-Stablecoin Convergence: Money for the Intelligent AgeIf there was a single unifying theme at Davos 2026, it was the intersection of artificial intelligence and digital finance. Jeremy Allaire articulated this clearly, describing stablecoins as "money as a native data type on the internet:" fully programmable, cryptographically verifiable, and capable of scaling from 25-cent microtransactions between AI agents to billion-dollar international bond settlements."Three years, five years from now, one can reasonably expect that there will be billions, literally billions of AI agents conducting economic activity in the world continuously," Allaire predicted. "They need an economic system. They need a financial system. They need a payment system. There is no other alternative in my view other than stablecoins to do that right now."Yat Siu of Animoca Brands drew a parallel to media consumption in the 1990s: "The growth is rapid, but in relative terms it seems very low. I think with stablecoins and digital assets we're at that stage." Just as the internet democratized content creation, programmable money is democratizing financial innovation, bringing creativity from outside traditional finance into the space.The Great Debate: Interest-Bearing Stablecoins and Banking ConcernsOne of Davos's liveliest controversies centered on whether stablecoins should pay interest. Traditional banks, including Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan, expressed concern that interest-bearing stablecoins could trigger massive deposit flight, undermining banks' lending capacity and potentially destabilizing the economy during stress periods.Allaire responded by saying that under the GENIUS Act, MiCA, and similar laws globally, stablecoins are defined as "cash instruments" – payment tokens used for settlement, not investment vehicles. This classification, he argued, is correct and should be preserved. However, he distinguished between issuers paying interest and partners offering rewards. He also pointed to money market funds as historical precedent, which grew to $11 trillion without destroying bank lending. Rethinking Money: Velocity, Monetary Policy, and the New Physics of ValueA fascinating technical discussion emerged around stablecoins' impact on monetary policy. Pierre Gramegna, Managing Director of the European Stability Mechanism, raised a critical question: If stablecoins dramatically increase payment velocity, could this expand effective money supply and trigger inflation?Allaire offered a counterintuitive response, describing what he calls "the new physics of money." Just as the marginal cost of storing and transmitting data has collapsed to near-zero, blockchain enables value transfer at similar economics. This suggests that hypervelocity might actually reduce the required monetary base rather than expand it. Dan Katz agreed that the impact is likely supply-driven rather than demand-driven, meaning that traditional inflationary pressures may not materialize. He also noted that central banks regularly update their operational frameworks, so "we shouldn't wed ourselves to a particular framework frozen in time."For emerging markets, Songwe added, the question is fundamentally about efficiency. "Africa has been at 5 days of settlements whereas Europe is 1 hour. We're hurrying to efficiency." The stablecoin efficiency gains matter more for markets still operating with significant friction.CZ's Vision: Beyond Payments to Programmable InfrastructureBinance co-founder Changpeng Zhao (CZ) brought a pragmatic, forward-looking perspective to Davos discussions. In his assessment, two parts of crypto have definitively "proved themselves at scale": crypto exchanges and stablecoins.CZ was refreshingly candid about current limitations: "We've tried crypto payments, but we haven't really conquered it yet. Nobody really pays in crypto yet." This honesty underscores that despite progress, mainstream transactional use remains an ongoing challenge rather than a solved problem.However, CZ's most compelling insights focused on future infrastructure. He revealed ongoing discussions with approximately a dozen governments about tokenizing state-owned assets, from infrastructure and real estate to commodities and natural resources. This represents a fundamental reimagining of how sovereign balance sheets could function, enabling fractional ownership, broader participation, and new capital formation without traditional bond markets.CZ also highlighted the convergence of AI and crypto: "As autonomous software becomes more common, crypto might be used as their native currency."Richard Teng: The “Killer App” ThesisCo-CEO Richard Teng, representing Binance at Davos, brought a practitioner's perspective that grounded the high-level discussions in operational reality. In a CNBC interview, he stated: "Stablecoins are one of the killer apps within the crypto space."Traditional financial infrastructure, built decades ago, is "very archaic, very slow, costly," Teng explained. Cross-border fund transfers take two to three days at high cost. Stablecoins solve this instantly at a fraction of the price – a value proposition retail users have long understood.What's changed, according to Teng, is institutional adoption. "Now with the GENIUS Act coming through in the US, the institutions, the banks are embracing it, saying 'look, these are superior technology and superior architecture that can solve a lot of problems.'" The numbers support this shift: stablecoin market cap grew over 50%, while transaction volume more than tripled.Particularly notable was Teng's emphasis on corporate treasury adoption, a use case that flies under the radar but may prove transformative. Companies managing global operations face constant friction with traditional banking: settlement delays, weekend closures, uncertain arrival times, high fees. Stablecoins eliminate these pain points while reducing capital requirements.Richard's perspective reinforces a theme running through all the Davos discussions: stablecoins succeed by being demonstrably better solutions to existing problems and eliminating friction that costs businesses time and money every single day.Final Thoughts: The Stablecoin DecadeDavos 2026 made it clear that the debate about whether stablecoins will matter is over. The new questions are about how they'll evolve, how traditional finance will adapt, and how regulators will balance innovation with stability.The consensus emerging from Davos suggests several likely trajectories:Stablecoins will continue serving as essential infrastructure for cross-border payments and emerging market financial inclusion, with the most dramatic impacts in regions underserved by traditional banking. The convergence with AI will accelerate, with stablecoins becoming the native payment layer for autonomous economic agents. Regulatory frameworks will continue maturing toward interoperability, enabling cross-border flows. Traditional financial institutions will increasingly integrate stablecoin rails rather than compete against them, recognizing the efficiency gains. Alternative models, such as Africa's SDR-backed stablecoin platform, will emerge to address legitimate concerns about dollar dominance while maintaining stability benefits.But perhaps the most important insight from Davos is one that applies beyond stablecoins – the democratization of financial innovation. As Yat Siu observed, programmable money is doing for finance what the internet did for media: opening it to creativity and innovation from outside the traditional expert class.Further ReadingBinance at Goals House Davos 2026 — Blockchain Use Cases for Financial InclusionBinance at the Historic UN Convention Against Cybercrime in Hanoi4 Simple Strategies to Earn Income with Stablecoins on Binance Earn (2025 Guide)

By Olga Martynova, founder of KGSToken LLCMain TakeawaysKGST is a stablecoin pegged 1:1 to the Kyrgyz som (KGS), designed to bring the national currency into regulated digital rails for practical use cases such as remittances, business settlements, and digital commerce.The model is built around full fiat backing, controlled issuance and redemption, and activity routed through licensed virtual asset service providers with AML and consumer protection requirements.KGST’s listing on Binance, including the KGST/USDT spot pair, expands access to KGST through a global virtual-asset platform while remaining anchored to a local unit of account.Note: This article is a guest post contributed by the founder of KGSToken LLC, the private-sector firm issuing KGST. It is published for informational purposes and reflects the author’s views only. It does not necessarily reflect the views of Binance.If you live in Kyrgyzstan, a lot of “digital finance” is about practical movement of funds: receiving money from abroad, paying for services, settling with suppliers, and keeping track of everything in the som, preferably without extra conversions or delay.Listed on Binance in late December 2025, KGST is a stablecoin pegged 1:1 to the Kyrgyz som (KGS) that is designed to serve those everyday financial needs. By representing the som as a digital token, KGST makes transfers and settlements easier to execute through digital wallets and virtual-asset services, while staying tied to the same unit of currency people already use in daily life. Read on to learn more about how KGST is designed and structured, how it came to be, and how it fits the broader picture of digital transformation in Kyrgyzstan and Central Asia.No Longer NicheThe rise of KGST is a sign of where Kyrgyzstan’s virtual-asset market is today, its  expansion visible in licensing and activity. The number of virtual-asset exchange operators in Kyrgyzstan increased from 6 in 2022 to 169 by 2025. Volume figures show the same trend: transaction volume grew from 5.2 billion som in 2022 to 587.3 billion som in 2024, which is roughly $6.7 billion at an exchange rate of about 87 som per U.S. dollar. In the first six months of 2025, virtual-asset transaction volume in Kyrgyzstan was estimated at around 860 billion som – roughly $9.9 billion.Tax revenue is another indicator of the space’s growing maturity. Tax receipts from virtual asset service providers rose from 73.1 million som in 2023 to more than 1.65 billion som in the first half of 2025, or roughly $19 million.Adoption metrics support the picture of a market with real participation. Kyrgyzstan ranks 19th in the global crypto adoption index and leads Central Asia. Against this backdrop, a som-pegged stablecoin is well-positioned to connect existing demand with a clearer, regulated digital instrument that stays anchored to the national currency.The government views the development of digital financial instruments as part of a broader economic growth strategy. In May 2025, Kyrgyzstan established the National Council for the Development of Virtual Assets and Blockchain Technologies under the President of the Kyrgyz Republic, signaling a coordinated approach to digital-asset policy and infrastructure. The Council’s role is to coordinate policy and infrastructure initiatives and advance the broader goals of strengthening the investment climate, supporting innovation, and building national capability in virtual assets and blockchain.For KGST, the roadmap for the near term includes aligning with digital som initiatives and scaling liquidity. Targets discussed include more than 500 million KGST in circulation within 12 to 18 months, alongside tens of thousands of active users. Kyrgyzstan is building a system where the digital som and blockchain technologies work for the benefit of every citizen. KGST is the first step toward making finance in the region transparent, accessible, and truly global.Robust Design For Practical UseKGST is designed to reduce friction. For many people in Kyrgyzstan, that can mean receiving a remittance and knowing what it is worth immediately or moving money between platforms without needing to time exchange rates. The stablecoin’s job is to maintain fixed value, be available when needed, and work across common digital rails.In addition to supporting remittances and small business settlements, KGST can serve as a simpler entry point into digital finance. A stablecoin tied to the som is easier to understand than a floating asset, reducing cognitive and financial barriers for new users.KGST is structured around full fiat backing and controlled issuance. Each token is backed 1:1 by Kyrgyz som held in reserve accounts at licensed state-owned banks. Tokens are issued only after fiat funds are received into reserve accounts. When KGST is redeemed, the tokens are burned. The intent is to eliminate uncollateralized issuance and keep the 1:1 relationship tight through a deposit-and-redemption cycle that expands and contracts supply based on real reserves.The structure is implemented in accordance with the country’s virtual-asset legislation and supervised by authorized state bodies. Operations are intended to flow through licensed virtual asset service providers that apply AML and counter-terrorist financing controls, including customer identification, transaction monitoring, and safeguards designed to reduce illegal use, especially in cross-border transfers.Why BNB Chain, and What it Enables in PracticeKGST is issued as a BEP-20 token on BNB Chain for several reasons: fast confirmation times, low transaction fees, and broad infrastructure support.For everyday transfers and smaller payments, fees matter: when costs are low and predictable, users can move funds more frequently instead of batching transactions. This is particularly relevant for remittances, freelance payments, and small business settlements.BNB Chain’s widely supported token standard also simplifies integration with wallets and infrastructure providers. That lowers the barrier for KGST to be supported across commonly used tools and services, helping it fit naturally into existing digital workflows.What the Binance Listing AddsBinance listed KGST on December 24, 2025, opening spot trading for the KGST/USDT pair. Deposits were enabled ahead of trading, withdrawals followed, and the listing fee was set at zero.In practice, this expands access to KGST within global market infrastructure. Symbolically, it shows how a national stablecoin can connect regulated reserves and local compliance frameworks with international liquidity and distribution.Market data shows KGST trading close to its intended peg, around $0.0114, consistent with the som’s exchange rate. As of early 2026, circulating supply is approximately 452 million KGST, with consistent daily trading volumes and price fluctuations typically within a narrow range.Final ThoughtsKGST offers users familiarity combined with digital convenience; businesses can benefit from more predictable settlement tools. In the larger scheme of things, KGST illustrates how regulated stablecoins can link local economies to global infrastructure without sacrificing reserve discipline or compliance.If the next phase of crypto adoption is to feel intuitive to more people, it will likely be built from elements like these: familiar units of account, transparent backing, regulated distribution, low-friction rails, and integration with global platforms. The work being done in the Kyrgyz Republic to build these digital pillars is laying a foundation for turning the nation into a regional hub for virtual assets and Web3 technologies in Central Asia.Further ReadingBinance Partners with Kyrgyzstan to Boost Crypto DevelopmentBinance Will List KGST & Enable Trading Bots Services on Binance SpotBinance Will Add KGST (KGST) on Earn, Buy Crypto & ConvertDisclaimer: Content includes comments and opinions from third parties outside of Binance. Please note that: (a) all content is presented on an "as is" basis for general information purposes only, without representation or warranty of any kind; (b) such comments and opinions belong to these third parties, and do not purport to reflect the views, comments or opinions of Binance; and (c) correspondingly, their comments and opinions as expressed on our platform is not intended to be and shall not be construed as an endorsement by Binance. We shall not be liable or responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from your use of such information. The content shall not be construed as financial advice.

Main TakeawaysBinance Wallet users can now buy crypto using their local currencies via the new Buy with P2P option, in addition to the existing Buy with Card. Buying through the P2P channel automatically matches users with the best available P2P market rates for a fast and seamless trading experience.The new service is powered by Binance Connect, the official fiat-to-crypto gateway of Binance enabling a wide range of payment rails for buying crypto and designed with local needs in mind.Bypass the extra steps and find the best marketplace rate instantly, all within your Binance Wallet! The new Buy with P2P feature simplifies your trading by automatically matching you with the best offers available across our peer-to-peer platform, in your preferred currency, so that you don’t have to browse through listings manually.What Is Binance Wallet?Binance Wallet is a self-custody crypto wallet within the Binance app also available via web, designed to empower users in the realm of decentralized finance (DeFi). Serving as a digital gateway to blockchain-based decentralized applications (DApps), it offers users a secure and convenient method to manage their cryptocurrencies, execute token swaps across multiple chains, earn yields, and interact with a variety of blockchain platforms. One of the primary fiat deposit methods available on Binance Wallet is Buy with Card, allowing users to purchase cryptocurrencies directly using their credit or debit cards. This method provides a fast and convenient way to convert fiat currency into crypto without leaving the wallet interface.Now Live: Buy Crypto with Local Currencies via P2P on Binance WalletWe are excited to announce that users can now buy crypto using their local currencies through P2P (peer-to-peer) trading on Binance Wallet, powered by Binance Connect. This new feature enables a more flexible and localized buying experience, connecting buyers and sellers directly within the wallet.What Is Binance P2P?Binance P2P (peer-to-peer) is a marketplace-style platform that allows users to buy and sell cryptocurrencies directly with one another, without the need for an intermediary. This decentralized trading method offers several key benefits, including increased convenience, speed, and flexibility.Key benefits of Binance P2P include:Convenience and Speed: Users can quickly find the best available offers automatically matched by the system. Local Currency Support and Flexibility: Binance P2P supports a wide range of local currencies, enabling users to trade crypto using their preferred fiat currency, making it easier to access crypto markets globally.Enhanced User Experience: The platform offers a user-friendly interface, secure escrow services, and multiple payment options, ensuring safe and smooth transactions.How P2P Works Within Binance WalletWithin Binance Wallet, P2P trading is integrated seamlessly, allowing users to initiate and complete peer-to-peer crypto transactions without leaving the wallet environment. Users are automatically matched with best offers across the P2P platform, and can make payments directly through the wallet, simplifying the entire process. The integration connects transactions in Binance P2P Express mode, reducing the time and effort required to find suitable trading partners.Integration with Binance ConnectThis latest addition to Binance Wallet’s fiat deposit methods is made possible by Binance Connect, acting as a bridge enabling streamlined connectivity between Binance Wallet and P2P payment and trading services. Binance Connect ensures secure, fast, and reliable transactions, enhancing the overall user experience and making P2P trading more accessible and trustworthy.This enhancement broadens the options available to Binance users when purchasing crypto via Wallet, offering more payment choices and greater convenience. To integrate Binance Connect to your platform as a business partner, please submit your request via the Partner Contact Form.How to Buy Crypto with P2P on Binance Wallet1. Open your Binance Wallet, tap [Receive], then select [Buy with P2P].2. Enter the amount of fiat you want to spend, select the token you wish to buy, and choose your preferred payment method by tapping the [Pay with {Payment methods}] drop-down menu. 3. Tap [Continue] to proceed with the order.4. Review the order details, including any fees that may be charged depending on the payment method by tapping the ellipsis button. Tap [Confirm] to continue the order.5. Follow the instructions to complete your order.For a detailed guide, visit How to Buy Crypto with P2P on Binance Wallet.Note: The products or features referred to above may not be available in your region. Users are responsible for informing themselves about and observing any restrictions and/or requirements imposed with respect to the access to and use of Binance services in each country from which the services are accessed.Final ThoughtsWhen it comes to buying crypto, the more payment methods available, the better. With the new Buy with P2P service within Binance Wallet, users can enjoy the expanded option to buy crypto directly with local currencies, choosing from better rates and access to preferred payment methods available in their region. Powered by Binance Connect, the experience is more flexible and efficient than ever, designed around local needs.Try the new P2P on-ramp today and experience a smoother, more convenient way to buy crypto within Binance Wallet.Further ReadingBinance Wallet Integrates Binance Connect: Instantly Buy Crypto Using FiatHow Binance Connect Is Powering Fiat-to-Crypto On-Ramps for Web3 Wallets and DApps Binance Wallet: A Seamless Journey into Web3Disclaimer: Digital asset prices can be volatile. The value of your investment may go down or up and you may not get back the amount invested. You are solely responsible for your investment decisions and Binance is not liable for any losses you may incur. Not financial advice. For more information, see our Terms of Use and Risk Warning.The Binance Wallet Services are offered by Binance Barbados Limited, and involve the provision of unregulated, third-party services, which are not supervised by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of the Abu Dhabi Global Market, or any other regulatory authority.  Binance Wallet is not responsible for your access or use of third-party applications (including functionality embedded within the Binance Wallet) and shall have no liability whatsoever in connection with your use of such third-party applications, including, without limitation, any transactions you dispute. Please carefully review the Terms of Use and Risk Warning and always do your own research.Binance Connect is only available to users who are eligible and may not be available or may be restricted in certain jurisdictions or regions or to certain users, depending on legal and regulatory requirements.

By Nina Rong, Executive Director, BNB ChainMain TakeawaysFermi is the next major performance upgrade for BNB Smart Chain, reducing block time from 0.75 seconds to 0.45 seconds while keeping network behavior stable under real production load.The upgrade is delivered through the BSC v1.6.4 client, with v1.6.5 following as a synchronized maintenance release.Faster blocks are only useful if they remain predictable at scale, and Fermi is designed to improve responsiveness for users and developers without compromising reliability.Block time sounds like an abstract metric until you’ve built or used an application that depends on timing. When a network is slow, users feel it as hesitation: swaps take longer to confirm, game actions lag, and simple actions like staking or minting turn into wait states. Developers feel it as latency that forces design tradeoffs, like adding extra buffering, reducing interactivity, or moving logic off chain just to keep an app responsive.But in a chain that runs at global scale, raw throughput is no longer the whole story. We’ll need to make sure the whole system behaves predictably while it runs faster reliably under real production conditions – across validators, nodes, infrastructure providers, wallets, and applications.Hence, shorter blocks, delivered in a way the network can sustain in production, constitutes the next chapter of BSC’s evolution with the Fermi hard fork. It completes our short block interval roadmap so BSC can run faster without sacrificing the reliability developers, users, and operators depend on.What Is the Fermi Hard Fork?Fermi is the next major performance milestone for BNB Smart Chain, delivered through the BSC v1.6.4 client, with v1.6.5 following as a synchronized maintenance release.At a technical level, Fermi is about tightening the full block lifecycle so the chain can produce blocks more frequently while remaining stable even as throughput increases. This combination matters as shorter blocks can introduce new stress points if the chain cannot propagate blocks efficiently across a global network, or if validators and infrastructure providers cannot keep up with the pace.For users, this means faster confirmations and a smoother experience when interacting with applications on BSC. For developers, it means lower latency and more responsive on-chain interactions, which is especially important for applications where speed is core to product experience. For node operators, it means running a faster chain without trading away stability.What is New With Fermi?Fermi introduces a set of BEPs that work together to improve end-to-end performance. The most visible change is the block interval reduction from 0.75 seconds to 0.45 seconds, the shortest in BSC’s history.In practice, this reduction would show up in the places users and builders actually notice. Across wallets, infrastructure, and applications, the chain simply feels faster. Transactions can be included sooner, confirmation times tighten, and DApps feel more responsive during peak activity – particularly for high-frequency DeFi use cases, advanced trading strategies, and workflows where users expect fast on-chain settlement.How Fermi Fits Into the BNB Chain 2026 RoadmapEvery BNB Chain hard fork reflects what we’ve learned from operating at scale. With Fermi, we’re refining everyday performance – ensuring that speed gains come with the stability our ecosystem expects.This upgrade also sets the stage for what comes next in 2026. Our 2026 roadmap remains focused on making BNB Chain faster and more capable while keeping the network stable and predictable for our users, developers, validators, and infrastructure providers.Final ThoughtsSpeed is only meaningful when it translates into real usability. Fermi is a step toward a chain that feels faster in everyday interactions while preserving the stability that allows an ecosystem to build with confidence, even as on-chain finance and consumer applications keep growing. As this work is incremental by design, Fermi is one step in a broader roadmap while we keep aiming to ship upgrades that make BSC faster and more capable without compromising the reliability the ecosystem depends on.Further ReadingInnovation at Binance – A Production Framework for Fixing the Small-File ProblemBinance Research: What Crypto’s 2025 Taught Us – and What to Watch in 2026Meme Rush on Binance Wallet – Instant Meme Token Insights with AI-Powered StoriesDisclaimer: Content includes comments and opinions from third parties outside of Binance. Please note that: (a) all content is presented on an "as is" basis for general information purposes only, without representation or warranty of any kind; (b) such comments and opinions belong to these third parties, and do not purport to reflect the views, comments or opinions of Binance; and (c) correspondingly, their comments and opinions as expressed on our platform is not intended to be and shall not be construed as an endorsement by Binance. We shall not be liable or responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from your use of such information. The content shall not be construed as financial advice.

Main TakeawaysScammers airdrop lookalike tokens that copy a trending memecoin’s name, symbol, and icon to bait users into swapping the wrong asset.Token names are easy to copy. The most reliable check before you swap is the token contract address, verified on a block explorer for the correct chain.On-chain transactions are generally irreversible. If you swap into an impersonation token contract, recovery can be difficult.When a memecoin starts trending, scammers often deploy multiple fake tokens that look almost identical to the real one. Because on-chain data is public, scammers can airdrop these fake tokens to many wallets, hoping users will interact with them later.This typically shows up as an unfamiliar token appearing in your wallet, or as multiple search results with similar names when you try to swap on a DEX. If you select the wrong token, you can end up swapping USDT or other assets into a token that has little to no value.Why Token Name Matching Is Not EnoughA token’s name, ticker, and icon can be copied in minutes. That means “it looks right” is not a security check.A token contract address (or token address on chains like Solana) is a stronger identifier – its on-chain reference is what distinguishes the real asset from clones. The safest routine is to verify the address before every swap, especially when a token is trending and search results show many similar entries.What Is a Token Contract Address?A token contract address is the on-chain identifier for a token. Think of it as the token’s “ID” on a specific network.On EVM chains (Ethereum, BNB Chain, Polygon, etc.), it is a contract address.On Solana, you will typically verify the token address shown in explorers such as Solscan.Top 5 Tools You Can Use to Verify Token AddressesUse a block explorer that matches the chain you are trading on:Etherscan (Ethereum, and supported networks) BscScan (BNB Chain)Solscan (Solana)DexScreener (multi-chain market views)Token Sniffer (risk signals for some EVM tokens)Best practice is to cross-check the token address using two sources, such as an official project channel plus a block explorer.How to Verify a Token Using a Block Explorer Please note: Images and information in this section are presented as examples only.Confirm the chain first. Make sure you know which network the token is on (for example, Ethereum, BNB Chain, or Solana).Use the correct block explorer.Ethereum (EVM): Etherscan (etherscan.io)BNB Chain: BscScan (bscscan.com)Solana: Solscan (solscan.io)Search the token, then slow down. Enter the token name or symbol (for example, “Uniswap” or “UNI”). Trending tokens often have many lookalikes that appear in search results.Open the token page and find the address.On EVM networks, check the token contract address.On Solana, check the token address (mint address).Verify the address before you swap. Copy the address and cross-check it against the project’s official channels or your own transaction history. A checkmark can be a helpful signal, but not a substitute to verifying the address.If the address does not match, do not swap. On-chain transactions are typically irreversible.Case Study: Lookalike Tokens for a Trending MemecoinPlease note: Images and information in this section are presented as examples only.In a recent example involving a trending memecoin, multiple tokens appeared under the same name in search results on Solana, with each token under a different token (mint) address. Swapping USDT into one of the impersonation tokens instead of the authentic token address resulted in a loss for users.When a token is trending, it is common for explorers and DEX search to surface many lookalikes. Selecting the token by name alone is risky; selecting by a verified address is the safer path.Here is how you can verify the intended token before swapping:Confirm the token’s network. Check the project’s official channels or a trusted explorer/market tracker to confirm the token is on Solana.Verify the token address on a Solana block explorer. Open Solscan and search for the token. On Solana, focus on the token address (mint address) as the primary identifier.Save the verified address for future reference. For example, the token address you intend to swap, shown on Solscan, is: AGdGTQ…wupumpWatch for lookalikes with the same token name, but different addresses. During interest spikes, multiple tokens can impersonate the same name while using completely different token addresses. For example, an impersonation token address could look like: 2u8vLD…zi9uXNThis does not match the verified token address of the real token you intend to swap.Cross-check using a second tool if needed. You can use OKLink Solana to compare token profiles and confirm the token address matches the verified one.If the address does not match, do not swap.Extra Checks When a Token is TrendingIf you are unsure, these signals can help you avoid obvious impersonators:Check the token creation time (first mint): A brand new token created minutes ago during a trend spike can be an impersonator.Review holder distribution and liquidity signals on the explorer or market trackers: Extremely thin liquidity often means you cannot exit safely.Treat unexpected airdrops as suspicious: Do not swap, “claim,” or interact with tokens you did not sign up to receive.Final ThoughtsMeme token impersonation succeeds because it exploits familiarity. Remember that in an on-chain environment, token names and icons alone are not reliable identifiers. Before every swap, verify the token contract address on the relevant chain explorer and confirm it matches a trusted source or your own transaction history. This 30-second habit can help prevent irreversible lossess.Further ReadingKnow Your Scam: How to Spot And Avoid Fake Investment SchemesHow to Report Scams on Binance Support“Free” Crypto Offers: Hidden Dangers & How to Avoid ScamsDisclaimer: Digital asset prices can be volatile. The value of your investment may go down or up, and you may not get back the amount invested. This content is for general information only and should not be construed as financial or investment advice. For more information, see our Terms of Use and Risk Warning.On-chain transactions are generally irreversible. Always verify token contract addresses, approvals, and transaction details before swapping or interacting with unfamiliar tokens. This content is for anti-scam and security education only and does not constitute financial or investment advice.

Main TakeawaysAt Goals House Davos, Binance hosted a lunch discussion on how blockchain can expand financial inclusion through practical, scalable use cases.The conversation focused on three areas where blockchain is already showing measurable value: remittances and cross-border payments, SME trade and working capital, and programmable aid and targeted disbursements.Participants also discussed what responsible scaling requires, including consumer protection, clear governance, and effective AML, counter-terrorist financing, and sanctions compliance.Against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, intensifying geopolitical tensions, and accelerating climate disruption, leaders from government, business, and civil society gathered in Davos. As a convening platform alongside major global moments, Goal House brings together leaders and experts to turn dialogue into partnerships and actionable next steps.“What I love about Goal House is not about having the solution to the problem upfront, it’s about bringing the community together to discuss what could be somewhat potential” – Rachel Conlan, Binance, CMOAt Goals House Davos 2026, Binance hosted a lunch roundtable discussion titled Trusted Digital Finance: Inclusion with Integrity. With Binance represented by Co-CEO Richard Teng and CMO Rachel Conlan, and joined by our CFO, General Counsel, and Head of VIP and Institutional, the discussion brought global leaders together across finance and technology to explore how blockchain can expand financial access through real-world use cases responsibly.Why Financial Inclusion Still Demands New InfrastructureAccording to the World Bank, more than 1.4 billion adults worldwide remain unbanked, with the majority living in developing economies. For many people, the barrier is access: high transaction costs, limited physical banking infrastructure, and identification requirements that can be difficult to meet. These constraints disproportionately affect women, rural populations, and low-income communities, reinforcing inequality and limiting economic mobility.The discussion started from a premise that if blockchain is going to power real inclusion, it needs to reduce friction for real users, under real constraints, in ways that institutions and policymakers can evaluate and oversee.Three Use Cases Where Blockchain Is Already Creating Measurable ValueRather than debating blockchain in the abstract, the conversation focused on three high-need areas where blockchain-based systems can offer clearer improvements in cost, speed, transparency, and accountability.The first was remittances and cross-border payments. For many households, cross-border flows are lifelines. When settlement is slow or fees are high, families feel it directly. Participants discussed how blockchain rails can lower settlement times and improve transparency around fees and routing, and why integration with local payment systems is essential for last-mile usability.The second was SME trade and working capital in emerging markets. Small and medium-sized businesses often face financing gaps and administrative friction that limit growth, even when demand is strong. The discussion explored how tokenized settlement and on-chain financing rails can reduce frictions, expand access to credit, and make working capital more available to businesses that are underserved by traditional channels.The third was programmable aid and targeted disbursements. Humanitarian and climate-related funding often faces a difficult tradeoff between speed and accountability. Participants discussed how auditable on-chain flows can support faster delivery and clearer reporting on where funds go, while still requiring careful design to protect recipients and ensure appropriate oversight.Aside from Technology, Inclusion Depends on TrustA consistent theme was that inclusion only scales when systems are trusted. That means safeguards and standards, not just product functionality. The lunch addressed the role of consumer protection, governance, accountability, and effective AML, counter-terrorist financing, and sanctions compliance. Participants also discussed reserve transparency and risk management standards where stablecoins are part of the model, and the importance of interoperability with local payment rails and emerging digital public infrastructure.Final ThoughtsThis lunch at Goals House Davos took place alongside the World Economic Forum, where leaders across government, business, and civil society discussed five interconnected global challenges: Growth, Geopolitics, Technology, People, and Planet. In this setting, Trusted Digital Finance: Inclusion with Integrity reflected a pragmatic shift in the industry conversation. The most important questions are becoming less about whether blockchain can be useful and more about how to deploy it responsibly, at scale, for the people who need it most.For Binance, this work spans education, partnerships, and technology deployment that helps digital finance become more accessible without lowering the bar on compliance, user protection, and accountability. As digital finance evolves, we believe the path to broader inclusion will be shaped by infrastructure that is transparent, interoperable, and designed to earn trust in the markets it serves.Further ReadingBinance Drives Responsible Growth Through Compliance and Law Enforcement PartnershipsBinance at the Historic UN Convention Against Cybercrime in HanoiCrackdown on Kidflix: How Binance Assisted Law Enforcement in Taking Down a Child Exploitation Platform

Main TakeawaysAccount takeover attacks can result in changed account settings, the rightful owner getting locked out, and their balance being wiped out. Binance uses an 8-level defense that gradually tightens safeguards as signs of unusual activity become more pronounced.Your best edge is fast action and strong habits. Enable passkeys, take warning messages from Binance seriously, and lock down your account immediately if anything looks unfamiliar.Account takeovers are one of the fastest ways users can lose their crypto. Attackers don’t typically “hack the blockchain.” They target victims directly, exploit their emotions, and manipulate them into giving away sensitive details through phishing links, malware, SIM swaps, deepfakes, and fake support chats – before draining victims’ accounts of funds.On Binance, account protection is a layered system based on a real-time risk detection engine. This approach ensures a smooth and secure crypto experience for users across the platform.How are Account Takeover Attacks ExecutedMost takeover attacks follow the same pattern that relies on speed and pressure.First, an attacker tries to steal your login credentials. That can happen through phishing, social engineering, or even finding your information on the dark web.Once inside, they’ll quickly work to change passwords and attempt withdrawals before you have time to react. To learn more about how account takeover attacks work, take a few minutes to read this blog article: Stay Safe: What Are Account Takeover Attacks?How Binance Protects Users Against Account TakeoversThere’s no single “magic” setting that can stop all would-be hackers. We can’t disable every account at the first sign of unusual activity nor can we allow a likely compromised account to roam free with zero intervention. Instead, we use progressive levels of controls tailored to each specific case, from gentle alerts to aggressive intervention, that tighten as risk increases. Here’s an inside look at how it works, starting from the first level of defense.Level 1: Multi-Channel Notifications When suspicious activity is detected, Binance can alert you through multiple channels, including emails and in-app pop-up messages.If you receive one of these notifications, don’t dismiss it. Open your account and review all activities. See any devices, locations, login times you don’t remember? Revoke the sessions and change your password immediately.Level 2: One-Time Password (OTP) Verification For sensitive actions, Binance requires a unique, time-sensitive one-time password (OTP) to confirm it’s really you. So, even if an attacker has your login details, they still need to bypass the OTP. Treat unexpected OTP prompts as a red flag. If you didn’t initiate the action, secure your account right away. Hackers have likely stolen your login credentials and are trying to breach your account.Level 3: Roaming Verification Binance triggers additional verification checks for logins or actions that come from a new device, location, or unusual IP address. If it is really you – for example, you’re on vacation in a new country – simply proceed to verify your identity. If you see “new device” prompts you don’t recognize, don’t approve them.Roaming verification helps block access from unfamiliar or high-risk areas and prevents unauthorized sessions from progressing.Level 4: Passkey Authentication (FIDO) Binance supports passkeys, a FIDO (Fast Identity Online standard)-based login method that uses a device-linked cryptographic key instead of a password. Passkeys are bound to your device (Face ID/Touch ID), making them highly resistant to phishing and password theft. Enabling passkeys is one of the strongest upgrades you can add to your Binance account. Even if one layer of defense is compromised, your account remains protected.Level 5: Facial Recognition Verification For higher-risk actions, Binance may ask for facial verification to make sure it’s really you. It’s a quick liveness check that helps block impersonators by matching your face to the identity on your account before a sensitive action goes through.Level 6: Forced Logouts If we detect signs your account has been taken over, Binance can force a hard reset and log out all active sessions across devices. That instantly kicks out any pesky hackers and gives you a clean moment to reset your password and tighten security before anyone can keep poking around.Level 7: Single Withdrawal RejectionIf one withdrawal looks off, Binance can block that specific attempt. You’ll get a notification, and if it was you, you can try again after additional verification. If it wasn’t you, that rejection can be the one thing that stops serious and irreversible damage.Level 8: Withdrawal Function Block When risk signals are high, Binance may temporarily pause withdrawals on the account. This is the final level of defense, used as a hard stop in emergency situations to prevent an account from being emptied while we are verifying what’s happening. Withdrawals are only restored after security checks and confirmation from the account owner.Final ThoughtsPowered by real-time monitoring, AI-driven anomaly detection, and Binance’s threat intelligence database, our risk framework helps stop potential account takeovers early while keeping day-to-day activity smooth for genuine Binance users – with safeguards that scale from gentle alerts to stronger intervention when needed.If you want to go one level deeper on how our security systems work and what to do in specific scenarios, explore our FAQ on changing your password, as well as our blog posts about passkeys and biometric two-factor authentication.Remember, your vigilance is the ultimate defense. Keep your credentials safe, stay informed, and make full use of Binance’s security features. If you ever notice unusual activity or receive a security alert, act fast:Change your passwordTurn on passkeys and 2FAWhen in doubt, contact Binance SupportFurther ReadingStay Safe: What Are Account Takeover Attacks?Stay Safe: How to Detect and Avoid Account Takeover AttacksFrom Detection to Recovery – Binance’s 2025 Anti-Scam Efforts

Main TakeawaysRetail mining results depend less on your ASIC’s rated hashrate and more on fundamentals like stable high-voltage power, reliable wired networking, and correct pool setup that keeps uptime high and rejected shares low.Choosing the right pool is a risk-management decision: understand payout models (PPS, FPPS, PPS+, PPLNS), fees, and reliability so your reward variance matches your tolerance and operating reality.Most preventable earnings loss comes from configuration mistakes (wrong endpoints or ports, missing failover pools, inconsistent worker naming, outdated firmware, and unmonitored latency and stale shares) that reduce effective hashrate over time. For those who don’t know much about cryptocurrency mining, it can look simple: power up an ASIC, connect to a pool, and earn rewards. In reality, most performance comes down to fundamentals that are easy to miss – stable power, reliable network, correct pool URLs and failover settings, and a payout method that matches your tolerance for variance. Small configuration mistakes can reduce effective hashrate through downtime, latency, and rejected shares, lowering earnings even when your miner’s rated hashrate looks strong.This guide for new retail miners covers the essential setup steps, how to choose a pool, how payout models work, and the common errors retail miners should avoid.Connecting Your ASIC: From Hardware Setup to Network ConfigurationConnecting an ASIC miner is usually straightforward, but a stable setup matters because uptime and share quality directly affect what you earn. Before you configure a pool, take a look at some key considerations listed below.1. Power & Electrical SetupMost ASICs are designed for high-voltage AC input, typically 200 to 240 V. Newer industrial-grade models may also support three-phase power (for example, 380 to 415 V or 480 V), which further improve power efficiency and reliability at scale. Make sure your power supply and electrical infrastructure match your miner’s requirements, and avoid shared or overloaded circuits to reduce the risk of instability, shutdowns, or hardware damage.2. Network ConnectionConnect the miner to the internet via Ethernet for maximum stability. Some models support Wi-Fi, but wired connections are generally more reliable for continuous mining.3. Find the Miner on Your Network and Secure Your Admin InterfaceAfter the miner boots, find its IP address using your router’s admin panel, a manufacturer scanning tool, or a network scanner. Enter the IP address in a web browser to open the admin interface, then change the default login credentials immediately.After confirming that the network is stable and the system is working properly, the miner is ready to be configured to a mining pool, where you can direct your hashrate and set up how rewards are paid out.Choosing the Right Mining Pool: Key Factors Retail Miners Should ConsiderSelecting the right mining pool is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a retail miner. While joining a pool improves your chances of earning rewards by combining your hashrate with others, not all pools are created equal. The following considerations can help you choose a pool that fits your goals and setup. Fee Structure and Payout MethodMining pools typically charge a fee – usually between one and four percent – to cover operational costs. But choosing a pool isn’t just about finding the lowest fee. It’s also important to understand how fees are calculated and what payout method the pool uses:PPS (Pay-Per-Share)PPLNS (Pay-Per-Last-N-Shares)FPPS (Full-Pay-Per-Share)PPS+ (Pay-Per-Share-Plus)Reputation and TrustworthinessA pool’s reputation reflects how reliably and fairly it operates. Look for pools with strong community feedback, transparent reward records, and a history of consistent payouts. Well-established pools with good reviews reduce the risk of service disruption or withheld rewards.Pool Size & HashrateThe total computational power of a pool affects how often blocks are found. Larger pools usually generate more frequent and predictable payouts, while smaller pools may pay less often but can sometimes offer higher individual shares.Reliability, Security, and ExperienceStable infrastructure and strong security are essential because every outage, latency spike, or stale share can reduce earnings. Backed by Binance’s global infrastructure and high uptime, Binance Pool helps retail miners convert more of their nominal hashrate into effective hashrate – with exchange-grade security and clear performance data.For retail miners, transparency and ease of use also matter. Binance Pool allows miners to receive rewards directly in their Binance accounts, easily convert or use them to other products, and participate in campaigns like Super Mine for additional rewards beyond standard payouts.Understanding Payout Methods: How Mining Rewards Are Calculated and DistributedMining pools use different payout methods to determine how rewards are calculated and distributed among participants. Understanding these mechanisms can help you set realistic expectations around payout stability, variance, and timing.Payout Methods ComparisonPayout MethodHow Rewards Are CalculatedReward StabilityFee LevelBest Suited ForSupported Coins on Binance PoolPPSFixed payout for each valid share submittedVery StableModerateRetail miners who prefer predictable, steady rewardsLitecoin (LTC), Zcash (ZEC), Dash (DASH), Nervos (CKB)FPPSPPS rewards + transaction feesVery StableModerateMiners seeking stable payouts that reflect full block valueBitcoin (BTC), Bitcoin Cash (BCH)PPS+Block rewards via PPS, transaction fees via PPLNSStableModerateMiners balancing stability with fee-based upsideEthereum Classic (ETC), EthereumPoW (ETHW), RavenCoin (RVN)PPLNSRewards distributed only when blocks are foundVariableLowerLong-term miners comfortable with payout varianceDogecoin (DOGE), Elastos (ELA), KASPA (KAS), Bellscoin (BELLS), Luckycoin (LKY), Junkcoin (JKC) and Pepecoin (PEP), Conflux Network (CFX)Payout models differ mainly in risk distribution and reward consistency. Retail miners with smaller or fluctuating hashrate often prioritize stability, while miners with continuous uptime may accept more variance to reduce fees over time.To better estimate expected rewards under different payout methods on our platform, refer to How to Calculate Mining Earnings on Binance Pool.Common Configuration Mistakes That can Impact Stability and RewardsEven when your ASIC hardware is properly connected, mistakes in your miner or pool settings can reduce your effective hashrate, increase rejected shares, or cause irregular reward payouts. These configuration issues are often not immediately visible on the device itself and usually only surface when you check pool-side performance metrics.1. Incorrect Pool Endpoint or Port ConfigurationUsing an incorrect pool URL, port, or protocol can cause intermittent connectivity or force miners to reconnect repeatedly, reducing effective uptime. Some endpoints are optimized for specific regions, coins, or payout modes.Best practice: Always use the officially published pool endpoints for the selected coin and algorithm. On Binance Pool, ensure the mining URLs and port match the intended mining algorithm.2. Improper Failover (Backup Pool) ConfigurationSome miners configure only a single pool URL on their ASIC, leaving the device with no effective failover. When the primary pool becomes temporarily unreachable due to network issues or maintenance, the miner has no alternative endpoint to switch to, resulting in avoidable downtime and lost hashrate.Best practice: Always configure all three pool URLs (primary, secondary, and tertiary). Each URL should point to a valid, reachable endpoint that supports the ASIC’s algorithm and coin. Properly configured failover allows the miner to automatically switch pools during connectivity issues, ensuring continuous mining and minimizing interruptions caused by network instability.3. Worker Naming and Account Mapping ErrorsIncorrect account names, sub-account IDs, or inconsistent worker naming can cause hashrate to appear inactive or be attributed incorrectly, complicating performance monitoring and reward verification.Best practice: Use standardized worker naming conventions and verify account identifiers before deployment, especially when managing multiple ASICs.4. Firmware Version and Performance Profile IssuesOutdated firmware may lack optimizations or bug fixes, while aggressive overclocking or power profiles can increase hardware error rates, triggering rejected shares or thermal throttling.Best practice: Deploy stable, manufacturer-recommended firmware and monitor ASIC-side metrics such as hardware error rate, temperature, and fan performance alongside pool-side rejection statistics.5. Network Latency and Share RejectionHigh stale or rejected share rates are often caused by local network instability rather than insufficient hashrate. Unlike pools that require manual regional endpoint selection, Binance Pool uses globally optimized URLs that automatically route miners to the appropriate backend servers.Best practice: Use a stable wired Ethernet connection and monitor rejection-related metrics in the Binance Pool dashboard to identify and resolve connectivity issues.Final ThoughtsStable mining performance comes down to getting the fundamentals right: consistent power, reliable connectivity, secure access to your miner, and accurate pool configuration (including failover). These basics directly affect your effective hashrate and the share of rewards you actually receive.Once your hardware and network are stable, the next step is choosing a pool that offers dependable infrastructure and transparent performance data. Ideally, look for a seamless experience – for example, the ability to receive rewards directly to your exchange account, simplified conversions, and access to additional reward opportunities – features that are available on Binance Pool!Further Reading2025 Binance Pool Recap – Market Trends, Pool Upgrades, and What’s NextBoost Your Rewards with Mining and Binance EarnBinance Super Mine – an Expanding Mining Rewards EcosystemDisclaimer and Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to high market risk and price volatility. The value of your investment may go down or up, and you may not get back the amount invested. You are solely responsible for your investment decisions and Binance is not liable for any losses you may incur. Past performance is not a reliable predictor of future performance. You should only invest in products you are familiar with and where you understand the risks. You should carefully consider your investment experience, financial situation, investment objectives and risk tolerance and consult an independent financial adviser prior to making any investment. This material should not be construed as financial advice. This product may not be available in certain countries and to certain users. This content is not intended for users/countries to which prohibitions/restrictions apply. For more information, see our Terms of Use and Risk Warning.