– Bitfinex cuts trading fees to zero for spot, margin, derivatives – No hidden fees added despite skepticism, multiple revenue streams cited – Competition intensifies between centralized and decentralized exchanges

Bitfinex, a well-known cryptocurrency exchange, has eliminated maker and taker trading fees across various products indefinitely to increase its market share. This applies to spot, margin, derivatives, securities, and OTC trading.

  • Bitfinex plans to profit through alternative revenue streams such as withdrawal fees and specific capital markets activities.
  • The zero-fee strategy aims to boost trading activity, attract new users, enhance liquidity, and increase revenue from lending and other services.
  • Some skepticism exists regarding potential hidden costs; Bitfinex has denied any hidden fees.

Heightened Competition Among Crypto Exchanges

The competition between centralized exchanges (CEXs) like Bitfinex and decentralized exchanges (DEXs) is intensifying.

  • Bitfinex competes with major CEXs including Binance, Coinbase, and Kraken.
  • DEXs such as Uniswap and PancakeSwap are gaining popularity, with daily volumes peaking at $50 billion in January 2025 and currently at $11.63 billion.
  • Centralized exchanges are adopting innovative strategies, like Kraken's launch of xStocks on the TON blockchain.

DEX volume (24 hours) as of Dec. 18, 2025 | Source: DefiLlama

The evolving competition landscape necessitates strategic shifts by companies like Bitfinex to maintain and expand their market presence.