Best Crypto Platforms in 2025

What is a cryptocurrency?

A cryptocurrency is a form of digital money that exists only online and is not issued or controlled by any government or central bank. Unlike traditional currencies such as the New Zealand dollar, cryptocurrencies rely on computer networks to facilitate secure and direct exchanges between users, without the need for physical cash or intermediaries like banks. The value of cryptocurrencies is determined by supply and demand on the market, and ownership is managed digitally.

What truly sets cryptocurrencies apart is their use of decentralised technology. Instead of relying on a single institution to process and verify transactions, cryptocurrencies operate on a peer-to-peer network. This means users send and receive funds directly to each other. The backbone of this system is a technology called blockchain—a public and tamper-resistant digital ledger—where every transaction is recorded and verified by a network of computers, ensuring transparency and security for all participants.

The process of confirming transactions on the network is handled by special participants called miners or validators. Their main role is to check that each new transaction is valid and then add it to the blockchain. By doing this, they help prevent fraud and double spending, ensuring the trustworthiness and security of the whole cryptocurrency system. In many networks, miners or validators are rewarded with newly issued coins or transaction fees, which keeps the network running smoothly and incentivises participation.

Which platforms are available for investing in cryptocurrency?

Investing in cryptocurrencies can be done through two main types of platforms: crypto exchanges and crypto brokers. Each meets different needs and approaches to the market. Crypto exchanges allow you to buy and own digital assets like Bitcoin or Ethereum directly (the so-called "spot" market), ideal for those who want long-term exposure and true ownership. On the other hand, crypto brokers offer access to derivative products like CFDs (Contracts for Difference), letting you speculate on price movements—sometimes with leverage—without actually holding the underlying cryptocurrencies. Understanding these differences will help you identify which method suits your investor profile: long-term strategy or active, leveraged trading.

Bon à savoir : Qu’est-ce qu’un CFD crypto ?

A crypto CFD (Contract for Difference) is a financial contract that lets you speculate on the price movement of a cryptocurrency without actually owning the asset. You enter into an agreement with a broker to exchange the difference between the opening and closing price of the position. With CFDs, you can profit from both rising and falling prices, and you can use leverage—meaning you can take a larger market position with only a portion of the capital required. However, leverage also means higher risk: gains and losses are amplified by the leverage factor.

Comparative table

Exchange crypto

A crypto exchange acts as a digital marketplace where you can buy or sell cryptocurrencies with actual ownership of the asset. When you purchase on an exchange, your crypto is stored in a wallet, either held by the platform (custodial) or by you (non-custodial). This allows not just investment and trading, but also activities like staking or transferring your crypto. Investors typically use exchanges for building long-term holdings, securing their assets, and participating directly in the spot market, which means buying/selling the real coins at current prices.

Example of investing via an exchange

You decide to invest €1,000 in Ethereum (ETH) on a crypto exchange. After buying, the ETH is stored in your personal wallet on the platform. You keep the ETH for several years, hoping its value will increase. You also have the option to transfer it to a personal wallet or participate in staking to earn extra rewards.

Broker crypto

Crypto brokers facilitate trading through derivative products like CFDs, rather than actual cryptocurrencies. When using a broker, you never own the underlying asset; instead, you enter positions that reflect price movements, often with the option to use leverage (e.g., x2, x5). Trading tools offered by brokers are typically more advanced—enabling short-selling, stop losses, and automated strategies—with rapid trade execution. This is suited for speculative and short-term trading, as leveraged positions can amplify both gains and losses, adding to the risk profile.

Example of investing via a broker

An investor wants to profit from the short-term price movement of Bitcoin (BTC) and uses a crypto broker to open a CFD position with 5x leverage. With €1,000 of their own money, they control a position worth €5,000. If the BTC price rises by 2%, their gain is €100 × 5 = €500 (before fees). However, if the price drops by 2%, the loss is also multiplied, losing €500 quickly. This approach is suitable for experienced traders comfortable with high risk.

What are the fees for crypto brokers and platforms?

Trading cryptocurrencies involves several types of fees, which can differ significantly depending on the platform you use, whether you invest directly on the spot market or through CFDs, and how frequently you trade. Understanding these costs is essential to assess your potential returns and choose the most suitable platform for your needs.

Good to know

Beginner or passive investors are mainly affected by deposit, withdrawal, and inactivity fees, especially if they trade rarely or in small amounts. Trading fees and spreads impact all investors, but they are particularly important for active traders who execute frequent transactions; these users should also consider overnight fees when using leveraged CFD products.

What services are offered by crypto platforms?

Today, crypto platforms have evolved far beyond simple buying or selling of digital assets. They now offer a wide array of services designed to help investors optimise returns, diversify their crypto usage, and engage with the broader Web3 ecosystem. Whether you are interested in earning passive income, leveraging your holdings, or exploring new forms of digital assets, these platforms provide flexible options to suit different profiles and goals.

Crypto Staking

Staking involves locking your cryptocurrencies—like ETH or SOL—directly on the blockchain or with a platform to help secure the network. In return, you receive rewards, usually paid out in the same cryptocurrency. Staking can be flexible (where you can withdraw anytime) or locked (where your assets are held for a set period, often unlocking higher yields). This is a popular way to earn passive income on your holdings without actively trading.

Important note

Note: Returns can vary by platform, and locked staking usually offers a higher rate than flexible staking, but with restrictions on liquidity.

Crypto Lending

Crypto lending allows you to deposit your digital assets into lending pools, which are then borrowed by other users or institutions. In exchange, you receive interest payments, typically on a daily or weekly basis. Many investors in New Zealand prefer to lend stablecoins (like USDT or DAI) because their value is pegged to the US dollar, reducing exposure to crypto market volatility.

Stablecoins are often prioritised for their lower risk of value fluctuations, making them a favourite for conservative or income-focused investors.

Crypto Mining and Farming

Example: Mining & Farming explained

Mining: Crypto mining consists of using specialised hardware (like ASIC miners or GPUs) to validate transactions on proof-of-work blockchains such as Bitcoin. In return, miners earn newly minted coins and transaction fees. In New Zealand, the viability of home mining depends on electricity costs, hardware investment, and the crypto being mined. Mining can become less profitable as competition and network difficulty rise.

Farming (Yield Farming): Yield farming is a decentralised finance (DeFi) practice where you provide liquidity—typically by depositing pairs of cryptocurrencies—into protocols in exchange for variable rewards. Yields can be high (sometimes over 10% APY) but involve higher risks such as impermanent loss, contract bugs, or market volatility. It’s a dynamic way for advanced users to boost returns, though it requires regular monitoring.

NFT

NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) are unique digital assets representing art, collectibles, music, gaming items, and more—all secured on blockchains like Ethereum or Polygon. Crypto platforms now allow users to create (mint), buy, and sell NFTs through integrated marketplaces. Transaction fees (often called ‘gas fees’) vary by blockchain: they can be a few NZD on Polygon or $20+ on Ethereum, depending on network congestion. NFTs can be used for collecting, investment/speculation, showcasing digital art, or even unlocking access to exclusive communities and online experiences. For most users, engaging with NFTs is as easy as linking a crypto wallet and exploring the available collections on these platforms.

Which cryptocurrencies can be traded on an online platform?

Platforms for crypto trading give investors access to thousands of digital assets with just a few clicks. In 2025, more than 10,000 cryptocurrencies are listed on global exchanges, but only a portion of these tokens show relevant characteristics for active trading—such as sufficient liquidity, exploitable volatility, or underlying fundamental value. To help you better understand the main crypto segments available on the best platforms, here’s a summary of the most commonly traded categories and what makes them interesting for different trading strategies:

Before selecting a cryptocurrency to trade, it’s essential to consider certain key indicators:

• Daily trading volume: A volume higher than 500 million NZD (or equivalent in USD) generally signals solid liquidity, meaning it’s easier to enter and exit positions without major price impact.
• Historical volatility: Some assets, particularly like SOL or DOGE, can experience price swings of 5% to 20% within a single trading day. This volatility can create both risks and opportunities for active traders.
• Market capitalisation: Coins ranked in the top 20 by market cap tend to be more stable and less subject to manipulation than smaller, lesser-known tokens (small caps).
• Real-world utility: Cryptocurrencies that are widely used in payments, smart contracts, or decentralised finance (DeFi) are more likely to retain value over time, giving traders additional confidence beyond pure speculation.

How to choose a cryptocurrency platform?

Choosing the right crypto exchange is a key step that depends on several factors, including your level of experience, your investment goals (such as whether you're aiming for short-term trading gains or longer-term growth), and the features you expect from a platform. There are significant differences between exchanges designed for the general public, those tailored to active traders, and simplified solutions ideal for beginners. Each exchange has its own strengths and limitations, so evaluating relevant criteria helps narrow down the most suitable options.

• Regulation and legal registration (verify compliance with New Zealand’s Financial Markets Authority or other recognised regulatory bodies)
• Range of cryptocurrencies available for purchase or trading
• Transaction fees (including commission, spread, and withdrawal fees)
• Quality of the user interface (usability, speed, and clarity)
• Trading tools offered (such as leverage, advanced order types, or charting indicators)
• Options for staking or lending your digital assets
• Availability of a reliable and user-friendly mobile app
• Reputation of the platform (user feedback, history of security incidents)
• Supported deposit methods (credit/debit card, bank transfer, stablecoins)
• Customer support (languages available, responsiveness, and hours of operation)

By carefully assessing these key factors, every investor—whether a long-term holder, an active trader, or an occasional user—can identify the best exchange to match their individual needs and investment strategy.

What is the best crypto platform according to experience level?

Choosing the right crypto platform can make a big difference to your investing experience. The ideal platform depends on your level of experience: beginners, active traders, and experienced traders each have distinct needs. To help you get started or upgrade your trading, here’s an overview of what to look for, tailored to each profile.

Best crypto platform for beginners

Beginners are new to cryptocurrency and may be buying crypto for the first time. Their main needs are simplicity, security, and helpful resources for learning the basics without being overwhelmed.

• Simple and intuitive interface
• Clear and transparent fees
• Strong security measures and local compliance
• Educational resources and support for beginners
• Easy deposit and withdrawal options

Example

A first-time investor wants to buy Bitcoin using NZD, finds the sign-up process easy, and quickly understands how to make a secure purchase.

Best crypto platform for active traders

Active traders buy and sell cryptocurrency frequently, aiming to take advantage of price movements. They need efficiency, lower fees, and advanced tools to help manage their trades.

• Fast trade execution and reliable order matching
• Competitive trading fees with volume discounts
• Real-time charting and technical analysis tools
• Easy access to a wide range of coins and pairs
• Responsive customer support for quick issue resolution

Example

A user checks charts throughout the day, executes multiple trades, and values fast execution and affordable fees to manage frequent strategies.

Best crypto platform for experienced traders

Experienced traders handle large portfolios and complex strategies. They require advanced features, deep liquidity, and robust risk management tools.

• Advanced order types and complex trading options
• High liquidity for large-volume trades
• Comprehensive API access for algorithmic trading
• Sophisticated portfolio and risk management features
• Licensed platform with strong regulatory compliance

Example

A professional trader uses APIs to connect custom trading bots, manages multiple asset types, and relies on institutional-grade security and reporting.

Which crypto platforms are registered in New Zealand?

In New Zealand, any company offering crypto-asset services—such as buying, selling, holding, or trading cryptocurrencies—must be registered with the local competent authority, the Financial Markets Authority (FMA), or hold an equivalent authorisation under recognised overseas regulation. Local registration ensures a minimum level of compliance with anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CFT) obligations, operational security, and transparency for users.

List of brokers registered in New Zealand

Some crypto platforms are formally registered in New Zealand, often as Financial Service Providers (FSPs), Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs), or equivalent local status. This registration with the FMA allows them to offer crypto-related services directly to New Zealand residents, and indicates compliance with local AML/CFT rules and consumer protection laws.

Warning

Local registration is not a guarantee of capital protection and does not confer the same level of authorisation as that granted to a bank or licensed investment firm.

Other reliable regulations in New Zealand

Some platforms serving New Zealand clients are not locally registered but are regulated elsewhere, most commonly in the European Economic Area or similar jurisdictions. These companies operate under a so-called “passporting” regime or equivalent, meaning they are subject to oversight by a recognised foreign authority, often with high regulatory standards for crypto-asset service providers.

These regulators impose robust requirements in terms of fund security, operational transparency, and fair treatment of all clients, providing additional layers of protection for New Zealand users.

What strategies are there for investing in cryptocurrencies?

Investing in cryptocurrencies offers a range of approaches to suit your personal goals, risk tolerance, and how actively you wish to manage your portfolio. Whether you prefer long-term holding, regular buying, or more active trading, understanding the main strategies can help you navigate the market with confidence.

What taxation applies to income from crypto trading in NZ?

The taxation of crypto-assets in New Zealand is governed by current tax legislation, which establishes specific rules depending on the transaction type and the taxpayer’s individual circumstances. The tax regime varies based on whether you engage in crypto activities on an occasional (personal investment) or professional (business-like trading) basis, and on the nature of your income—such as capital gains, regular returns from staking, or professional trading profits. Understanding these distinctions is essential in order to comply with New Zealand tax obligations relating to cryptocurrencies.

• Gains are usually calculated as the difference between the selling price and the acquisition cost, multiplied by the number of units sold (“cost basis method”).
• Taxpayers are responsible for keeping detailed records of all crypto transactions and for reporting relevant income in their annual tax return.
• There is currently no specific requirement to declare the holding of accounts on foreign platforms, but foreign-sourced income is taxable, and Inland Revenue may require disclosure in certain circumstances.
• Losses realised on crypto transactions may generally be used to offset crypto gains within the same year or future years, provided you can demonstrate the intention to derive income (business or investment activity).
• New Zealand does not have a separate capital gains tax, so profits from selling crypto are taxed under ordinary income tax rules, depending on individual circumstances.

P. Laurore

Finance expert

Co-founder of HelloSafe and holder of a Master's degree in finance, Pauline has recognised expertise in personal finance, which she uses to help users better understand and optimise their financial choices. At HelloSafe, Pauline plays a key role in designing clear, educational content on savings, investments and personal finance. Passionate about financial education, Pauline strives, with every piece of content she oversees, to provide reliable, transparent and unbiased information for independent and informed financial management. To this end, she has tested over 100 trading platforms to help internet users make the right choices.