As the cryptocurrency revolution sweeps across Africa, crypto enthusiasts in Benin are discovering more ways to connect with the rest of the world on the digital economy. However, they cannot find online trading platforms that cater to their local needs as they battle accessibility barriers.
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Considering this, the article discusses a step-by-step approach for Beninese traders on how to get started with a cryptocurrency exchange, as well as learn how to deposit and maximize their trading capabilities with UEEx, regardless of their trading experience.
Read Also: Best Crypto Exchanges in Estonia (2025)
Key Takeaways
- The lack of accessible cryptocurrency exchanges has posed a barrier to Beninese traders.
- Beninese traders, like every other crypto trader around the world, prioritize exchanges that cater to their needs as regards customer support, language, and trading tools.
- With UEEx, Beninese traders can deposit, withdraw, stake, and trade over 200 cryptocurrencies in the comfort of their homes.
Exchange | Trading Fees | Best For | Max Leverage | Available Assets | Fiat Support | Security Features | Unique Features |
UEEx | 0.09% Maker/Taker (spot);0.08-0.10% Maker/Taker (margin) | Traders looking to diversify their portfolio with crypto and stocks, all in one platform. | 200x | 300+ | USD, EUR, more | Distributed cold storage, Access control with IP and wallet whitelisting, Proof of Reserve, Unique sending addresses, Two-factor authentication, and regular updates to wallet software. | UE Coin Miner app, copy trading, Advanced trading tools, Tree-Graph consensus mechanism, Unlimited receiving addresses. |
Transak | N/A | Traders are looking for seamless fiat-to-crypto conversions. | N/A | 150+ | USD, EUR, GBP, more | Security audits, Endpoint security, Hardware-based MFA, KYC checks, Non-custodial platform, ISO/IEC 27001 certification | Wide range of trading pairs, Transak One, Transak Stream, Payroll Automation, Web3 Gaming. AI-Driven Financial Automation, Bank-Enabled Crypto Off-Ramping |
Bybit | 0.10%/0.10% Maker/Taker (spot) 0.02%/0.055% Maker/Taker (Perpetual & Futures Contracts) 0.02%/0.03% Maker/Taker (USDC Options) | Derivatives traders focused on futures and options trading. | 200x | 300+ | USD, EUR, more | Cold storage, SSL encryption, two-factor authentication, real-time monitoring, YubiKey authentication, passkey, anti-phishing code, and new address withdrawal lock. | Specializes in derivatives, Perpetual contracts, copy trading features, Lending, and crypto loans,Crypto earn, Bybit card, Launchpad, NFT Marketplace. |
Coinbase | 0.00% – 0.40% (Maker)0.05% – 0.60% (Taker) | Beginners and investors seeking a user-friendly platform | 20x | 150+ | USD, EUR | Cold storage, Multi-factor Authentication (MFA), encryption, 48 hrs waiting period, AI-behavioral analytics, Biometric security, Transport Layer Security (TLS), AES-256 encryption | Educational resources, recurring buy feature, staking, and wallet integration |
Binance | 0.1% Maker/Taker; discounts available with BNB (0.075%) | Users seeking low fees, high liquidity, and a wide range of cryptocurrencies. | 125x | 350+ | USD, EUR, more | Advanced encryption, cold storage, Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU), Withdrawal whitelist, Anti-phishing code | Wide range of crypto, staking, futures, and margin trading, Binance Pool, Binance Visa Card, High processing throughput, AI-powered customer support, and Advanced trading tools. |
OKX | Perpetual Swap Trading0.02% / 0.05% Maker/Taker (Lv1)0.01% / 0.03% Maker/Taker (VIP1) Options Trading0.02% / 0.05% Maker/Taker (Lv1)0.15% / 0.30% Maker/Taker (VIP1) Futures Trading0.02% / 0.05% Maker/Taker (Lv1)0.15% / 0.30% Maker/Taker (VIP1) Spot Trading0.10% / 0.15% Maker/Taker (Lv1)0.09% / 0.135% Maker/Taker (Lv2)0.06% / 0.08% Maker/Taker (VIP1)0.04% / 0.04% Maker/Taker (VIP2 with >5 BTC trading volume) | Traders interested in futures, options, and advanced tools. | 125x | 500+ | USD, EUR, GBP, more | Multi-layered security, cold storage, 2FA, Anti-phishing codes, Face verification, Insurance fund, Asset risk reserve fund. | Futures and options trading, staking services, and DeFi opportunities trading bots, OKX Earn, NFT marketplace. |
- UEEx – Best Overall
Summary: UEEx is a feature-rich and reliable cryptocurrency exchange for Benin traders looking for an all-in-one solution.
UEEx is an accessible crypto exchange that was founded in 2021 with the mission of providing an integrated digital solution for crypto trading. This cryptocurrency exchange boasts over 200 listed cryptocurrencies on the exchange, along with a variety of unique features, including the UE Coin Miner Telegram Application that allows you to earn the native UE Coin.
The native utility token was designed to incentivize users and holders to enjoy lower fees, profitable stake options, and even voting rights. UEEx is designed for both new and professional Beninese traders as it employs different security mechanisms, such as its disturbed cold wallet storage, which makes it inaccessible to online hacks. On the user’s end, UEEx deploys advanced security technologies that generate unique sending addresses and demand the completion of two-factor authentication (2FA).
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Beninese traders are rest assured of their funds as UEEx employs the Proof of Reserve (PoR) verification method that shows the digital assets this cryptocurrency exchange claims to possess.
Pros:
- Access over 200 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, altcoin, and memecoins, for trading, staking, or saving.
- Beninese traders can earn extra by mining the native UECoin on the UEEx miner app on Telegram.
- Beginner traders can learn and even copy expert traders to earn profits.
- The cryptocurrency exchange employs the proof-of-reserve verification method, further proving their security and transparency.
- Traders enjoy a maximum leverage of 200x, outperforming their competitors.
- Low maker/taker fees on the market of 0.09% for spot trading and 0.10% for margin trading.
Cons:
- UEEx is still in the development stage in the competitive market.
- The withdrawal options for fiat are limited in some regions, which could raise concerns for Beninese traders.
Fees:
- Spot Trading: Maker/taker Fee is 0.09%.
- Margin Trading: Maker/taker Fee is 0.10%.
- Deposit Fees: Free for most crypto deposits.
- Withdrawal Fees: Free for internal transfer; variable for external transfer and fiat withdrawal.
- Transak – Best for Seamless Fiat-to-crypto Conversions
Summary: Transak is a fiat-to-crypto on-ramp solution for users who want to convert their fiat currency into cryptocurrency without any hassle.
Transak works globally, offering a seamless and transparent process of buying cryptocurrencies with different fiat payment methods, including credit/debit cards and bank transfers. This cryptocurrency exchange provides services for both individual users and businesses by simplifying business-to-business integration via APIs and SDKs.
Transak is the go-to option for both new and seasoned crypto users and is preferred for its competitive fees, support for multiple cryptocurrencies and fiat currencies, and strong focus on transparency.
Pros:
- It supports a wide range of fiat currencies and various means of paying for them.
- The fee structure is transparent, showing clear partner, transaction, and network fees.
- Great for businesses that need to integrate crypto on-ramps using APIs and SDKs. Competitive exchange rates, very minimal slippage.
Cons:
- The gas fees might fluctuate depending on the demand for the blockchain network.
- Converting local West African CFA Francs to any cryptocurrency is very limited on this platform.
- Lack of advanced trading capabilities apart from crypto purchases.
Fees:
- On-Ramp Transactions: SEPA Instant Bank Transfer (EUR) – 0.99% (minimum 1 EUR); Faster Payment Bank Transfer (GBP) – 0.99% (minimum 1 GBP); Open Banking (GBP) – 1.49%; Card Payments (Credit and Debit) – 3.5% + 1 USD for EUR & GBP transactions, – 3.99% + 1 USD for USD & AUD transactions, – 5.5% + 1 USD for other currencies
- Wire Transfer (USD): 1%
- NFT Checkout Transactions: Payment methods include credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. Fees are similar to on-ramp card payments.
- Off-Ramp Transactions: Instant SEPA Bank Transfer (EUR): 0.99% (minimum 3 EUR); Faster Bank Transfer (GBP) – 0.99% (minimum 3 GBP)
- Debit Card Payments: 0.99% for EUR, GBP, and AUD transactions (minimum fee applies: 3.49 EUR, 3.49 GBP, or 7.99 AUD). 0.99% for USD transactions (minimum 3.99 USD) and 4.99% for all other currencies (minimum 5.99 USD)).
- Bybit – Best for Futures and Options Trading
Summary: Bybit is the best option for Beninese traders to find low transaction prices and advanced derivatives trading.
Founded in 2018, Bybit has quickly risen to be one of the most trusted cryptocurrency exchange platforms, providing features that include spot trading, perpetual contracts, options trading, and passive earning capabilities. These features have made this cryptocurrency exchange help you earn from staking and other asset investments. Through its intuitive platform, the exchange provides multiple language support and a mobile app that caters to both novice and professional traders in Benin.
Pros:
- Competitive trading fees, appealing to Beninese traders.
- Offers up to 100x leverage for perpetual and options trading.
- Includes staking, dual-asset investments, and savings options for passive income.
- Beginner-friendly platform with straightforward tools for spot trading and crypto purchases.
- Supports multiple languages, enhancing usability for traders in Benin.
Cons:
- Beninese CFA Franc (XOF) isn’t directly supported for deposits or withdrawals.
- The lack of strict global licensing may concern some traders.
- Advanced derivatives features may overwhelm beginners seeking simpler options.
Fees:
- Spot Trading: Maker and taker fees start at 0.10% and may decrease for VIP users and high-volume traders.
- Derivatives Trading: Maker fees start at 0.01%, and taker fees begin at 0.06%. Discounts are available based on trading volume or VIP status.
- Deposit Fees: On-chain cryptocurrency deposits and internal transfers are free. Fees may apply for buying crypto through third-party providers, depending on the currency and payment method used. P2P trading is fee-free, but payment provider transaction fees may apply.
- Withdrawal Fees: Withdrawal fees are fixed and depend on the specific cryptocurrency and blockchain used. Internal transfers to other Bybit accounts incur no fees.
- Coinbase – Best for Beginners
Summary: Coinbase is the go-to trading platform for traders in need of user-friendly features, secure, efficient transactions, and cryptocurrency varieties.
Coinbase is a globally renowned digital exchange through which you can buy, sell, or trade enormous varieties of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more. The exchange’s transparency, compliance with regulations, and strong security have drawn Beninese traders to the platform.
The platform is also reliable and offers extensive educational resources on cryptocurrency, cryptocurrency trading, and staking, as well as profit-making.
Pros:
- Features a simple, intuitive interface Erich is ideal for beginner Beninese traders.
- High security involves two-factor authentication, safe and cold wallet storage, and more to safeguard customer’s funds.
- Wide variety of cryptocurrencies and payment methods.
- Advanced trading tools are available on Coinbase Pro for professional traders.
Cons:
- Higher fees when compared to some competitors, especially for small transactions.
- Does not directly support the Beninese CFA Franc because of “XOF” or local payment methods.
- Limited advance trading options are available on the basic version.
- Customer support is sometimes slow at times.
Fees:
- Spot Trading: 1.49% for buying/selling, though this may vary depending on transaction volume.
- Coinbase Pro (Advanced Trading): Maker fees: Start from 0.00% to 0.40%, based on 30-day trading volume. Taker fees: Start from 0.05% to 0.60%, depending on the same volume criteria. Discounts apply for higher trading tiers.
- Stablepair Trading: Maker fee: 0.00%. Taker fees: Range from 0.10 bps (Tier 1) to 0.45 bps (general users).
- Deposit Fees: ACH: Free. Wire (USD): $10 per deposit. SEPA (EUR): €0.15 per deposit. SWIFT (GBP): Free
- Withdrawal Fees: ACH (USD): Free. Wire (USD): $25 per withdrawal. SEPA (EUR): Free. SWIFT (GBP): £1 per withdrawal
- Crypto Withdrawals: Fees are based on network conditions at the time of withdrawal.
- USDC to USD Conversion Fees: Conversions under $40M in 30 days: 0%. Over $40M: Tiered fees from 0.05% to 0.30%, depending on the conversion volume.
- Miner Fees: Fees are dynamically calculated based on network congestion and disclosed at the time of the transaction. This fee structure is ideal for both beginner and advanced traders, offering flexible options for fiat and crypto transactions.
- Binance – Best for Low Fees and High Liquidity
Summary: Binance is a great cryptocurrency exchange for Beninese traders, prioritizing low fees, high liquidity, and numerous crypto assets.
Binance is an exchange that tops the trend as far as cryptocurrency exchanges are concerned. This platform is one of the most popular and is often regarded as one of the most trusted worldwide. Binance is embedded with different trading features, offers liquidity, and lets you trade more than 350 cryptocurrencies.
Beninese traders can choose either spot, futures, or margin trading as well as staking, yield farming, and other associated services.
Pros:
- Enables you to trade in over 350 cryptocurrencies and has huge opportunities in the market.
- The availability of high liquidity guarantees instant and speedy trade activity.
- Services including staking, futures trading, and crypto loans are available.
- Advanced tools for the professional trader like Grid Trading and Multi-Symbols Trading.
Cons:
- Beginner traders may find the interface complicated and overwhelming.
- Does not support the local currency, Beninese CFA Franc (XOF) directly; users rely on P2P for fiat conversions.
- Restrictions from local banks may disallow credit/debit card transactions for the purchase of cryptocurrencies.
- Some services may not be accessible due to regional KYC and regulatory restrictions.
Fees:
- Spot Trading: Maker/taker fee is 0.1% (can be reduced to 0.075% when using BNB to pay fees).
- Margin Trading: Maker/taker fee is 0.02%–0.1%, depending on the trading pair and VIP level.
- Deposit Fees: Free for most cryptocurrency deposits (fiat deposits may vary based on the payment method).
- Withdrawal Fees: Variable, depending on the cryptocurrency or fiat currency being withdrawn.
- OKX – Best for Advanced Trading Tools
Summary: OKX is a versatile crypto hub for any Beninese trader looking for extensive options in assets, great trading tools, and strong DeFi and Web3 integrations.
OKX set up in 2017, is a household name in the world of cryptocurrencies and offers a wide range of services, including spot trading, derivatives, staking, and access to their DeFi and Web3 tools. The platform is a placeholder for over 350 cryptocurrencies and, thus is likely to be a promising platform for both beginners and advanced traders in Benin.
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OKX’s concentration on all blockchain utilities, DeFi applications, and passive income options makes it a go-to trading platform for traders interested in long-term investments.
Pros:
- Supports more than 350 cryptocurrencies, giving a bit of room for investment.
- Advanced trading options, including margin trading and trading in derivatives with up to 125x leverage.
- Offers competitive fees with discounts on bulk trades and those holding OKB tokens.
- Provides passive income options through staking, dual investments, and crypto savings.
- Access DeFi wallet, NFT marketplace, and blockchain-based productivity tools.
Cons:
- Does not directly support the Beninese CFA Franc (XOF), but trades are done through either USD, EUR, or other fiat currency and charge conversion fees.
- Derivatives and DeFi features, which may be technical for advanced use, can daunt beginners.
- Some features may not be available because of region limits.
Fees:
- Spot Trading: Maker and taker fees start at 0.08% and 0.10%, respectively, with discounts available for OKB holders and VIP-level traders.
- Futures Trading: Maker fees begin at 0.02%, while taker fees start at 0.05%.
- Deposit Fees: Cryptocurrency deposits are free, making it seamless for Benin traders to fund their accounts. However, network fees may apply when transferring from personal wallets.
- Withdrawal Fees: Fees vary based on the cryptocurrency being withdrawn. Beninn traders can find specific withdrawal fees under the “Withdrawal” section on OKX’s website. Fiat withdrawals depend on the selected payment method.
Why Use a Crypto Exchange in Benin?
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Alt text: Bitcoins and Paper Money Beside a Cellphone and Laptop with Graphs on Screen
For Beninese traders, access to various crypto and crypto-related resources offers numerous advantages for local Beninese, prospective tourists, and the country at large. These benefits include;
Access to a Global Financial Ecosystem
Crypto exchanges allow Beninese traders to have access to the global financial system without any barriers that are usually associated with traditional banking systems. Given the very limited access to international financial platforms in Benin, cryptocurrency exchanges allow users to trade, invest, and transfer funds across borders seamlessly.
Variety in Investment Avenues
Through a reliable cryptocurrency exchange, Beninese traders have a wide variety of investment options. With platforms like UEEx, Coinbase, and OKX, you can access hundreds of cryptocurrencies, ranging from Bitcoin and Ethereum to altcoins.
Low Transaction Cost and High Speed
Crypto exchanges charge lower fees for transactions compared to traditional financial systems, and transaction processing is faster. In a market such as Benin, where sending or receiving an international payment through a bank can be highly pricey and sluggish, crypto exchanges provide the best alternative by facilitating relatively smooth platforms.
Financial Inclusion of the Unbanked Population
A large portion of Beninese remains unbanked or underbanked due to the lack of access to financial services. Crypto exchanges are an inclusive financial solution that allows people without bank accounts to be involved in global financial activities.
What to Ask/Consider When Choosing a Crypto Exchange in Benin
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From regulation to the process of transactions, there are many factors that one must consider when deciding on a cryptocurrency exchange in Benin. Here are some five factors that you must ask or assess:
- Supported Fiat Currencies
Will the exchange support the CFA Franc (XOF) or allow you to conveniently convert your fiat to crypto and vice versa?
- Regulation and Security
Is the exchange regulated by recognized regulatory bodies? Does the exchange employ different security mechanisms such as two-factor authentication, cold storage of funds, or fund insurance? For instance, UEEx, Bybit, and other exchanges offer a wide range of security measures to safeguard customer’s funds.
Exchange | Cold Storage | Two-factor authentication (2FA) | Encryption | Proof of Reserve | Anti-Phishing Measures | Insurance Fund | KYC Compliance |
UEEx | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Transak | N/A | Yes | Yes | N/A | No | No | Yes |
Bybit | Yes | Yes | SSL Encryption | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Coinbase | Yes | Yes | AES-256 | No | Yes | No | Yes |
Binance | Yes | Yes | Advanced Encryption | No | Yes | SAFU | Yes |
OKX | Yes | Yes | Multi-layered | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
- Transaction Fees
How much is the fee for depositing and withdrawing money from the account? Are the trading, and conversion fees more than other websites? UEEx offers near-zero transaction fees, ensuring you earn more profits as you trade and transact daily.
Exchange | Spot Trading Fees (Maker/Taker) | Margin Trading Fees (Maker/Taker) | Deposit Fees | Withdrawal Fees | Other Fees |
UEEx | 0.09% | 0.08% – 0.10% | Free for most crypto deposits | Free for internal, variable for external | None Specified |
Transak | N/A | N/A | Varies by fiat method | Depends on currency and method | Gas/network fees vary |
Bybit | 0.10% / 0.10% | 0.01% / 0.06% | Free for crypto deposits | Fixed, varies by cryptocurrency | Discounts for VIP and high-volume |
Coinbase | 0.00% – 0.40% / 0.05% – 0.60% | N/A | Free for ACH, others vary | Network and method-based | Higher for small transactions |
Binance | 0.10% / 0.10% (0.075% with BNB) | 0.02% – 0.10% | Free for most crypto deposits | Variable, based on cryptocurrency | Discounts with BNB |
OKX | 0.08% / 0.10% (Spot, Lv1) | 0.02% / 0.05% (Lv1) | Free for cryptocurrency deposits | Depends on cryptocurrency | OKB-based discounts and VIP tiers |
- Payment Options
Are there available and viable options for depositing/withdrawing, such as bank transfers, credit/debit cards, or mobile money, available on the exchange? Beninese traders can access different UEEx payment and withdrawal options to receive their funds.
Exchange | Supported Fiat Currencies | Payment Methods | Fees |
UEEx | USD, EUR, more | Crypto deposits, internal transfer | Free for crypto deposits; variable for external transfers |
Transak | USD, EUR, GBP, more | Credit/debit cards, bank transfers, SEPA, Wire transfers | Varies by method (e.g., SEPA 0.99%, card payments 3.5%-5.5%) |
Bybit | USD, EUR, more | Crypto deposits, P2P, third-party providers | Free for crypto deposits; provider fees for fiat purchases |
Coinbase | USD, EUR | Bank transfers, debit/credit cards | 1.49% for standard buy/sell; ACH free, card payments 3.99% |
Binance | USD, EUR, more | P2P, credit/debit cards, bank transfers | Free for crypto deposits; variable for withdrawals |
OKX | USD, EUR, GBP, more | Crypto deposits, credit/debit cards, bank transfers | Free for crypto deposits; withdrawal fees vary by method |
- Usability
Does the platform accommodate the needs of a beginner well with a user-friendly interface and also offer a mobile application convenient for traders in Benin to use?
- Cryptocurrency Offerings
Does the exchange provide a wide range of cryptocurrencies to be traded, including popular coins and altcoins?
- Other Advanced Features
Does the exchange provide beginner and professional traders with advanced tools like staking, futures, P2P trading, and DeFi integrations?
- Regional Restrictions
Are there any limitations of access concerning users in Benin regarding local regulations?
- Customer Support
Is the exchange customer support responsive and available in languages accessible to Beninese traders? With a 24/7 customer support across mails, social media, and other contact methods, Beninese traders enjoy swift responses to their questions.
Getting Started with UEEx in Benin
Beninese traders can kick-start their cryptocurrency journey without doubt and harness the benefits of the UEEx platform via the following steps:
- Create Your Account and Verify It
Go to the UEEx website or download the app from your phone. Open an account using your email or phone number. Complete the Know Your Customer (KYC) process to get full access to the platform, which includes better features like higher deposits as well as trading limits. A valid form of identification, like a national ID card or passport, is required.
- Fund through Crypto or USD
The UEEx platform does not currently support the West African CFA Franc, instead, you can use Bitcoin, USDT, or a few cryptos. Or convert your XOF to USD through local trading platforms, OTC services, or trusted agents. Then transfer your USD to your UEEx account to begin trading. If you are new to crypto trading, start small because it is essential to learn the ropes of the platform you start trading.
- Begin Trading and Making Money
After funding your account, then take a look at the dashboard for various trading options. Spot trading is good for Beninese traders new to cryptocurrency because you can buy and sell popular assets like Bitcoin or Ethereum. You can also explore staking and join the UE Coin Miner Telegram app to earn native token rewards.
Read Also: History of Top Cryptocurrency Exchanges
Conclusion
Deciding on the best exchange for cryptocurrency trading as a Beninese trader is dependent on trading objectives, experience level, and any specific features you prefer. For example, if you are a beginner seeking simplicity, an advanced trader preferring tools, or an individual who wants to earn passive income, you can find various tools offered by UEEx, Binance, Bybit, and Coinbase, among several other exchanges.
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However, some of the challenges may include limited support to XOF and limitations from the local banks. However, P2P trading is becoming more and more open, and innovative features of the exchanges are showing feasible elections. As the market changes in crypto within Benin and across the globe, knowing some unique offerings and limitations of these exchanges will go a long way for traders in helping them make an informed decision and possibly use every opportunity the cryptocurrency space creates.
FAQ
UEEx is highly recommended for Beninese traders looking to diversify with more than 200 cryptocurrencies, along with unique features like the UE Coin Miner app and a robust security system. Binance and OKX also support more than 350 cryptocurrencies but lack local fiat currency support.
No major exchange directly supports XOF. However, Binance and Bybit allow P2P trading where traders can use XOF for fiat-to-crypto conversions through local partners.
Yes, most of the exchanges, such as UEEx, Binance, Bybit, and OKX, offer free cryptocurrency deposits. However, network fees may apply based on the blockchain used.
UEEx offers up to 200x, the highest among exchanges.
UEEx stands out by implementing Proof of Reserves, unique sending addresses, and IP whitelisting. Security features offered by Binance and Coinbase are outstanding and consist of advanced kinds of encryption, cold storage, and multi-factor authentication.
UEEx encompasses the UE Coin Miner Telegram App, copy trade for beginners, the tree graph consensus mechanism, and Proof of Reserves for security.