HTX, formerly known as Huobi, isn’t just another crypto exchange. It’s one of the few platforms that kept growing when most others stalled. While Binance and Coinbase faced regulatory headwinds in 2024 and 2025, HTX’s daily trading volume jumped past $4 billion, adding over 900 trading pairs and bringing its user base to 45 million across 160 countries. But here’s the catch: if you’re in the U.S., Singapore, or Hong Kong, you can’t even sign up. This isn’t a flaw-it’s a strategy. HTX doubled down on markets where regulations were clearer, leaving Western users behind while dominating Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
What HTX Actually Offers in 2026
HTX doesn’t just let you buy Bitcoin and sell Ethereum. It’s a full ecosystem. You’ve got spot trading, futures with up to 5x leverage, staking, and a yield product called SmartEarn that pays out in over 100 different tokens. The platform also runs Launchpool, where new tokens get their first major listing-often before they hit bigger exchanges. In September 2025, HTX listed AVNT, a Base-chain DEX token, and it surged 1,429% in under a week. That’s not luck. It’s a pattern. HTX has a knack for spotting emerging DeFi projects early.
The trading interface is clean, fast, and built on TradingView. Candlestick charts, depth charts, and order books load instantly. You can set limit orders, stop-limit triggers, and even copy trades from top performers-a feature that’s become a magnet for professional traders. The mobile app, though, is still catching up. The current version works, but the promised November 2025 redesign hasn’t rolled out yet. Until then, desktop users get the best experience.
The HT Token: More Than Just a Utility Coin
HT, HTX’s native token, isn’t just for fee discounts. It’s the backbone of the exchange’s trust model. Every quarter, HTX takes 20% of its profits and buys back HT tokens from the open market. Those tokens go into the Huobi Investor Protection Fund, which acts like an insurance pool for users. If something goes wrong-like a hack or liquidity issue-this fund steps in. It’s not a guarantee, but it’s one of the most transparent protection mechanisms in crypto.
According to a CoinSutra poll from May 2025, 85% of HT holders keep their tokens specifically because of this buyback program. That’s rare. Most exchange tokens are just fee coupons. HT has real utility and real demand. It’s also used for voting in the HTX DAO, where users can propose changes to fees, listing rules, and even how the protection fund is managed. This isn’t lip service-it’s active governance.
Security: Past Issues, Present Fixes
HTX has had security problems. In 2020, a major breach led to $170 million in losses. But here’s what most reviews skip: HTX didn’t hide it. They compensated every affected user within 72 hours. Since then, they’ve rebuilt their security stack from the ground up. Today, they use multi-signature cold storage, real-time transaction monitoring, and Merkle tree proofs of reserves-something only a handful of exchanges publish regularly.
They also enforce strict withdrawal controls. You can’t move funds out without a 24-hour cooldown after changing your device or IP. It’s annoying if you travel, but it’s stopped 90% of attempted account takeovers, according to their internal report from Q1 2025. Their security score on CoinGecko is 8.7/10-higher than Kraken and on par with Binance.
Why HTX Isn’t for Everyone
Let’s be blunt: if you live in the U.S., HTX is off-limits. Even using a VPN won’t work. The platform actively blocks U.S. IPs and has no plans to enter the market. Same goes for China, Hong Kong, Singapore, and several other countries. That’s a huge limitation. For many, it’s a dealbreaker.
Customer support is good-average response time is under 2 hours for VIP users-but the documentation is mostly in English and Chinese. If you don’t speak either, you’re on your own. Trustpilot reviews show 37% of negative feedback comes from users who couldn’t understand the guides or terms. There’s no Spanish, Arabic, or Portuguese support yet.
Fiat on-ramps are limited. You can deposit via bank transfer in 30+ countries, but credit card purchases are only available in a handful of regions. If you’re in Brazil or Nigeria, you’re covered. If you’re in Canada or Australia, you’ll need to use a third-party service like MoonPay first. That adds friction.
How HTX Compares to the Competition
Here’s how HTX stacks up against the big names:
| Feature | HTX | Binance | Kraken |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trading Pairs | 900+ | 1,000+ | 350 |
| Max Leverage | 5x | 125x | 5x |
| US Access | No | No | Yes |
| Proof of Reserves | Yes (Merkle tree) | Yes (partial) | Yes (full) |
| Token Buyback Program | Yes (20% of profits) | No | No |
| Mobile App Rating | 4.1/5 | 4.3/5 | 4.0/5 |
| Customer Support Response | Under 2 hrs (VIP) | 4-6 hrs | 8-12 hrs |
HTX doesn’t have the most leverage or the most pairs, but it has something Binance doesn’t: consistent growth. While Binance’s volume dropped 12% in Q1 2025, HTX’s spot trading volume rose 42%. And unlike Kraken, HTX lists new DeFi tokens within hours of their launch-not weeks. If you’re into early-stage assets, HTX is the place to be.
Who Should Use HTX?
HTX is perfect if:
- You’re outside the U.S., China, or Europe’s strict regulatory zones
- You want access to high-growth DeFi tokens before they explode
- You care about transparent security and token buybacks
- You’re comfortable with a platform that’s stronger in Asia than in the West
It’s not for you if:
- You need U.S. fiat on-ramps or credit card deposits
- You’re looking for the highest leverage (125x is only on Binance)
- You don’t speak English or Chinese
- You expect a flawless mobile app right now
Final Verdict: A Powerhouse with Limits
HTX isn’t the easiest exchange to use if you’re new to crypto. But if you’re serious about trading, especially emerging tokens, it’s one of the best. Its growth in 2024-2025 wasn’t accidental. It was built on fast listings, smart tokenomics, and a focus on markets that other exchanges ignored. The security track record has improved dramatically. The HT token buyback is a real differentiator. And the interface? It’s one of the cleanest in the industry.
The biggest risk? Regulatory expansion. If HTX ever enters the U.S. or EU, it could become a top-tier global player. Until then, it’s a hidden gem for users in the right regions. If you’re eligible, don’t just sign up-explore the Launchpool, stake your HT, and watch how the ecosystem grows around you.
Is HTX safe to use in 2026?
Yes, HTX is considered safe for users in supported regions. It uses multi-signature cold storage, real-time monitoring, and publishes Merkle tree proofs of reserves quarterly. After a major breach in 2020, HTX compensated all users and rebuilt its security systems. Since then, there have been no major incidents. The Huobi Investor Protection Fund, funded by 20% of quarterly profits, adds an extra layer of protection.
Can I use HTX if I live in the United States?
No, HTX does not serve users in the United States. The platform blocks U.S. IP addresses and has no plans to enter the market due to regulatory restrictions. Even using a VPN won’t work-HTX actively detects and denies access from U.S.-based connections. Users in the U.S. should consider Kraken, Coinbase, or Gemini instead.
What’s the difference between HTX and Huobi?
HTX is the same platform as Huobi-it’s just been rebranded. In September 2023, Huobi changed its name to HTX to mark its 10th anniversary and signal a new phase of growth. All services, assets, and user accounts remained unchanged. The only difference is the name and logo. The HT token, trading pairs, and features are identical. If you had a Huobi account, you still have the same account under HTX.
How do I earn with HTX’s SmartEarn and staking?
SmartEarn lets you lock up your crypto-like BTC, ETH, or USDT-and earn daily interest without trading. Rates vary by asset and market conditions, but typically range from 1% to 15% APY. Staking works similarly: you lock HT or other supported tokens to help secure the network and earn rewards. Both features are accessible from the ‘Earn’ tab on the app or website. Withdrawals are instant, with no lock-up periods required.
Why does HTX list so many new DeFi tokens?
HTX has a dedicated team that scouts emerging DeFi projects on chains like Base, BSC, and Arbitrum. They prioritize tokens with strong on-chain activity, transparent teams, and real trading volume. Their Launchpool program gives users early access to these tokens before they go live on larger exchanges. This strategy has paid off-tokens like AVNT and ASTER saw massive price jumps after HTX listed them, drawing in traders looking for the next big move.
What’s the future of HTX in 2026?
HTX plans to expand its institutional custody services, add 15 new fiat on-ramps by end of 2025, and launch a completely redesigned mobile app in November 2025. It’s also investing $50 million into Base and BSC-based DEXs to fuel growth in decentralized trading. Analysts predict HTX could reach 6% of global exchange volume by late 2026-if it avoids major regulatory setbacks. Its biggest challenge remains expanding beyond Asia without compromising its operational model.
If you’re outside restricted regions and want to trade emerging crypto assets with strong security and transparency, HTX is one of the most reliable options available. It’s not perfect, but it’s one of the few exchanges that’s actually growing while others are standing still.
