You might have typed "HPX" into your search bar, but you’re likely looking for HTX, formerly known as Huobi. It’s one of the most common typos in the crypto space right now. If you are here to evaluate whether this platform is safe enough for your funds or cheap enough for your trading style, you’ve come to the right place. As we move through 2026, the landscape for centralized exchanges has shifted dramatically following the regulatory crackdowns of 2024-2025. HTX has managed not just to survive but to grow, reporting a staggering 210% jump in net deposits in early 2025 alone. But does that growth translate to a better experience for you, the trader? Let’s cut through the marketing noise and look at what actually matters: your money, your time, and your profits.
The Bottom Line: Who Is HTX For?
Before we dig into the nitty-gritty, here is the quick summary. HTX is a robust, veteran exchange that excels in two specific areas: altcoin variety and fee discounts. If you are a day trader who likes to hunt for new tokens before they hit major platforms like Coinbase, or if you want to keep your transaction costs low by holding their native token, HTX is a strong contender. However, if you are looking for the absolute deepest liquidity on Bitcoin or Ethereum pairs, or if you want a seamless DeFi integration experience, you might find it lacking compared to competitors like Binance or KuCoin.
- Best for: Altcoin traders, high-frequency spot traders, and users seeking long-term fee discounts via token staking.
- Avoid if: You prioritize top-tier institutional custody transparency over all else, or if you need instant KYC verification (it can take days).
- Safety Rating: Moderate-High. They recovered from a significant hack in 2023, but their insurance fund structure remains unique.
A Brief History: From Huobi to HTX
To understand where HTX stands today, you have to look at its roots. Founded in 2013 by Leon Li, the platform operated under the name Huobi for over a decade. It was one of the first major global exchanges to gain traction outside of Asia. In October 2023, everything changed. Justin Sun, the controversial founder of TRON, acquired the exchange and rebranded it to HTX. This wasn’t just a logo change; it signaled a shift in strategy towards a more community-driven model, heavily leveraging the TRON ecosystem.
This rebranding happened during a turbulent time for crypto. While many exchanges were struggling with regulatory headwinds, HTX pivoted aggressively. By late 2024 and into 2025, while competitors saw flatlining activity, HTX expanded its user base to over 50 million globally. The key driver? They didn’t shy away from listing newer, riskier assets when others were pulling back. For the average user, this means more opportunity-but also more responsibility to do your own research on the coins you trade.
Fees and Costs: Where HTX Shines
Let’s talk about the thing that eats into your profits the most: fees. In the world of crypto trading, every basis point counts. HTX has positioned itself as a cost-effective option, particularly if you engage with their native ecosystem.
For standard spot trading, the baseline fees are 0.2% for both makers (those who add liquidity) and takers (those who remove it). On paper, this looks average. But here is the catch: HTX offers up to a 25% discount on these fees if you hold and stake their native token, HT Token. Unlike some competitors whose fee discounts expire after a few years, HTX’s discount mechanism is permanent as long as you hold the token. This makes it incredibly attractive for active traders.
| Exchange | Spot Maker Fee | Spot Taker Fee | Futures Maker Fee | Native Token Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HTX | 0.2% | 0.2% | 0.02% | Up to 25% (Permanent) |
| Binance | 0.1% | 0.1% | 0.02% | Up to 25% (Expires for older accounts) |
| KuCoin | 0.1% | 0.1% | 0.02% | Up to 20% (With KCS Level 14+) |
| Bybit | 0.1% | 0.1% | 0.02% | Up to 20% (With BYST) |
If you are trading futures, the rates drop significantly to 0.02% for makers and 0.04% for takers. These rates are competitive, though not always the cheapest on the market. The real value comes from the VIP tier system. If you can accumulate enough HT tokens or reach high monthly trading volumes, you unlock lower tiers that further reduce costs. For institutional players, HTX’s prime brokerage services have seen a 67% increase in clients since late 2024, suggesting their backend infrastructure is maturing rapidly.
Security: Learning from Past Mistakes
Security is the elephant in the room for any centralized exchange. You don’t need to be reminded of what happened to FTX or Mt. Gox. So, how secure is HTX?
In November 2023, HTX suffered a significant security breach. Hackers exploited a vulnerability in the Heco Cross-Chain Bridge, stealing approximately $85 million. The response was swift and transparent, which is crucial. Justin Sun personally announced the hack and immediately pledged to cover the losses using the Huobi Investor Protection Fund. Within weeks, affected wallets were made whole. This incident tested their reserves and their trustworthiness, and they passed that test by honoring their commitments.
Since then, HTX has doubled down on security protocols. They now store 98% of user funds in cold storage-offline wallets that are immune to online hacks. They employ multi-signature withdrawal controls and real-time transaction monitoring. Furthermore, they maintain the Investor Protection Fund, pledging 20% of quarterly profits to buy back HT tokens, which serves as an insurance mechanism for unforeseen events. While no exchange is unhackable, HTX’s post-hack behavior suggests a mature approach to crisis management.
Features: More Than Just Spot Trading
HTX isn’t just a place to buy Bitcoin. It’s a comprehensive financial platform. Here is what you get when you sign up:
- Extensive Asset List: With over 720 digital assets and 900+ trading pairs, HTX lists more altcoins than most competitors. If you are interested in meme coins, new DeFi projects, or niche blockchain ecosystems, you will likely find them here before they appear elsewhere.
- Derivatives Trading: Futures trading is robust, with leverage options up to 200x for major pairs. The interface is clean, and the engine handles high volatility well, which is critical during market crashes or pumps.
- Earn Products: HTX offers various staking and earn products. However, reviews suggest this area needs improvement. Their Primepool feature lacks the depth and frequency of events found on KuCoin or Binance. If passive income is your primary goal, you might find better yields elsewhere.
- Copy Trading: For beginners, the copy trading feature allows you to mirror the strategies of successful traders. This lowers the barrier to entry, though you should always remember that past performance doesn’t guarantee future results.
User Experience and Support
How easy is it to use? The platform has a moderate learning curve. The mobile app is intuitive, and the desktop interface is packed with tools without feeling cluttered. Setting up an account takes about 15-30 minutes, but the Know Your Customer (KYC) process can be a bottleneck. Users in the European Economic Area report verification times ranging from 24 to 72 hours, while some global users have complained of delays up to a week. This is a common pain point across the industry, but it’s worth noting if you need immediate access to your funds.
Customer support receives mixed feedback. The 24/7 Zendesk ticketing system is responsive, with many users reporting issues resolved within two hours. However, there is no live chat option for most users, which can be frustrating during urgent situations. Community support via Telegram is active, with over 85,000 members, but official moderation responses can be inconsistent.
Regulatory Landscape in 2026
As of 2026, regulation is tighter than ever. HTX operates under Seychelles jurisdiction but maintains localized compliance frameworks in over 195 countries. This dual approach allows them to serve a global audience while adhering to local laws. They have been proactive in engaging with regulators, particularly in Europe and Asia. If you are in a restricted region, check their official website for the latest eligibility requirements, as these can change with little notice.
Final Verdict
Is HTX the best exchange? It depends on what you value. If you want the absolute lowest fees on Bitcoin, Binance might still edge it out. If you want the widest selection of obscure altcoins and a platform that rewards loyalty with permanent fee discounts, HTX is hard to beat. The 2023 hack was a scare, but their recovery proved their resilience. For 2026, HTX stands as a solid, mid-to-top-tier choice for traders who want a balance of accessibility, variety, and cost-efficiency. Just remember to use hardware wallets for long-term holdings and never leave more than you need to trade on any centralized platform.
Is HTX the same as HPX?
No, HPX is likely a typo. You are probably looking for HTX, the cryptocurrency exchange formerly known as Huobi. There is no major, widely recognized crypto exchange named HPX in the current market.
Is HTX safe to use in 2026?
HTX is considered relatively safe, especially after recovering fully from a $85 million hack in 2023. They store 98% of funds in cold storage and maintain an investor protection fund. However, as with any centralized exchange, it is recommended to withdraw large amounts to a personal hardware wallet for long-term storage.
What are the trading fees on HTX?
Standard spot trading fees are 0.2% for both makers and takers. Futures trading fees are 0.02% for makers and 0.04% for takers. Holding the native HT token can reduce these fees by up to 25% permanently.
Does HTX require KYC verification?
Yes, HTX requires Know Your Customer (KYC) verification for most features, including withdrawals and higher trading limits. Verification typically involves submitting a government ID and proof of address. Processing times vary by region but usually take between 24 hours and 7 days.
Can I buy Bitcoin directly on HTX?
Yes, HTX supports fiat-to-crypto purchases. You can buy Bitcoin and other major cryptocurrencies using credit/debit cards or bank transfers, depending on your country of residence. The availability of payment methods varies by region.
How does HTX compare to Binance?
Binance generally has higher overall liquidity and a larger user base. However, HTX often lists more altcoins earlier and offers permanent fee discounts for token holders, whereas Binance's discounts may expire for older accounts. HTX is a strong alternative for traders focused on diverse asset selection and cost savings.
