CEX
Technology & Computing abbreviation · Cryptocurrency & Blockchain
| Stands for | Centralized exchange |
|---|---|
| Categories | Technology & Computing |
CEX stands for Centralized exchange, a cryptocurrency & blockchain abbreviation.
A cryptocurrency exchange operated by a company that holds customers' funds and matches trades on its own order book, such as Coinbase, Binance or Kraken. Most people buy their first crypto with ordinary money on a CEX.
Example: Withdraw from the CEX to your own wallet if you don't plan to trade soon.
Usage notes
Centralized exchanges offer convenience, bank deposits and customer support but require identity checks and carry custody risk, as the 2014 collapse of Mt. Gox and the 2022 bankruptcy of FTX showed. The saying "not your keys, not your coins" warns against leaving funds on exchanges. Many now publish proof-of-reserves reports.
Related abbreviations
More cryptocurrency & blockchain abbreviations
- BNB – BNB (formerly Binance Coin)
- BTC – Bitcoin
- BTFD – Buy the f***ing dip
- CBDC – Central bank digital currency
- CDP – Collateralized debt position
- CeFi – Centralized finance
- DAO – Decentralized autonomous organization
- DApp – Decentralized application
- DCA – Dollar-cost averaging
- DeFi – Decentralized finance
- DePIN – Decentralized physical infrastructure networks
- DEX – Decentralized exchange