Copy trading on crypto exchanges - what is it and how to make money on it
Date of publication: 26.11.2024
Time to read: 5 minutes
Date: 26.11.2024
Read: 5 minutes
Views: 96

Copy trading on crypto exchanges - what is it and how to make money on it

Cryptocurrency copytrading has become a popular tool for those who want to make money in the crypto market without having in-depth knowledge. This trading model allows users to automate their investments by consistently copying the strategies and trades of professionals. In this article, we will look at what copytrading is, its main types, advantages, disadvantages, as well as the platforms where it is available.

Copytrading - what it is

Copy trading is a process of automatic copying of traders' trading operations on the platform of a cryptocurrency exchange or a specialized service. In essence, it is a method of trust management, where the user chooses a trader and “connects” to his trades. 

Trading takes place as follows:

1. The user can choose a trader from the rating based on his profitability, risks and trading style.

2. Connects his account to copy his trades.

3. All transactions of the trader are automatically duplicated to the user's account in proportion to the allocated capital.

Copytrading allows even beginners to make profit without getting into technical analysis and without following the market in real time.

Main types of copytrading

Copytrading is divided into several types, which depend on the degree of automation, the level of control and the nature of interaction between the trader and the subscriber.

1. automatic copytrading

This format implies full automation. The user connects to the trader and all his operations are copied without the need for intervention. This is the most popular type of copytrading, especially among beginners.

2. Manual copytrading

In this case, the user manually selects which trades to copy. This approach requires more involvement and understanding of market movements, but gives more control over investments. It is suitable for more experienced traders.

3. Mirror trading

Users copy not individual trades, but the whole strategy. The trader sets the rules for entering and exiting trades, and the system automatically applies them to the subscriber's account.

4. Social trading

This format combines elements of copy-trading and social networking. Users can communicate with traders, discuss strategies and share experience. The decision to copy trades remains with the subscriber.

What to pay attention to when copytrading

Before starting copytrading, it is important to consider a number of factors to minimize risks and increase the chances of profitable trading:

1. Trader's profitability

Study the trader's statistics over different time periods. High returns over a short period of time may be the result of aggressive trading with higher risks that you may not be ready for.

2. trading history (statistics)

Pay attention to the stability of results. Traders with consistent and long-lasting returns are preferable to those who show sharp jumps in equity.

3. maximum drawdown

This indicator reflects the largest losses that the trader has allowed during the period. The lower the drawdown, the more reliable the strategy, and it can also signal that the trader has a clear understanding of how much risk he/she is allocating per trade/day.

4. Risk Profile  

Assess whether the chosen trader fits your risk tolerance level. Aggressive traders can bring high profits but also involve high losses.

5. Commissions

A number of platforms charge a commission for copying trades. Keep this in mind when calculating your profit potential and choosing a platform.

6. Capital control  

It is recommended to allocate for copy-trading only the amount of money, the loss of which will not have a critical impact on your financial situation.

Advantages and disadvantages of copytrading

Copytrading is becoming increasingly popular due to its accessibility and ease of use, especially for novice investors. However, like any financial instrument, it has its strengths and weaknesses.

Advantages of copytrading

1. Ease of use

Copytrading allows even beginners to trade cryptocurrency without in-depth knowledge and skills. All you need to do is choose an experienced trader and connect your account. The process is fully automated, making it accessible to a wide range of users.

2. time saving

Using copy-trading frees you from the need to analyze the market, develop strategies and follow market news. This is especially important for busy people who want to generate income from cryptocurrencies without active involvement.

3. Access to professional strategies

Copytrading platforms give you the opportunity to watch the actions of professional traders. This not only allows you to profit from their knowledge, but also learn from them by studying their approaches and strategies.

4. Transparency

Most copytrading platforms provide detailed statistics about traders, including their profitability, risks, number of subscribers and transaction history. This data helps users make informed decisions when choosing a trader.

5. Diversification

Copytrading allows you to connect to several traders at the same time, minimizing risks. If one trader shows a loss, the profit from another can compensate it, a kind of diversification.

6. Automation

The process of copying trades is fully automated, which eliminates the human factor and emotional interference. All trader's actions are instantly reflected on the user's account.

7. Social component

Some platforms such as Binance, OKX, Bybit offer social trading features, allowing you to communicate with traders, discuss strategies and get feedback.

8. Low entry threshold

Many platforms allow you to start with a small amount of money. This makes copytrading accessible to a wide range of investors, including those new to the cryptocurrency market.

Disadvantages of copytrading

1. Risks of loss

Despite the trader's experience, copytrading does not exclude the possibility of losses. Financial markets are subject to high volatility, and even professionals can not only make mistakes, but also incur losses - the main thing is that they should be within the limits of risk management.

2. limited control

In automatic mode trades are copied without the possibility of intervention. The user cannot change the trader's strategy or refuse a deal in the process of its execution.

3. Dependence on the trader

Success depends entirely on the actions of the chosen trader. If he makes a wrong decision or changes his strategy, it will directly affect subscribers.

4. Commissions

Many platforms charge fees for using the service, which can reduce profits. These can be either fixed commissions or a percentage of income.

5. Liquidity issues

If a trader works with small or obscure coins, this can cause liquidity difficulties. In such a case, trades may not be executed at the stated price.

6. crowd effect

Popular traders can attract a lot of subscribers. If they start copying trades at the same time, it can cause a significant impact on the market, especially on low-liquid assets, leading to price changes and deteriorating results.

7. Lack of guarantees

A trader's successful history in the past does not guarantee his success in the future. Market conditions may change, rendering a previously profitable strategy ineffective.

8. Lack of personalization

Copytrading does not always take into account a user's individual financial goals and risk level. What suits one trader may be too risky for another.

9. Technical problems

Copytrading automation depends on the stability of the platform. In case of technical failures, trades may be executed with a delay or not executed at all, which will lead to losses.

10. Limited learning

Although copy-trading provides access to the strategies of professionals, users are not involved in the decision-making process. This limits their ability to learn and develop trading skills on their own.

Exchanges that support cryptocurrency copytrading include

1. Bybit 

Bybit offers a user-friendly interface for copytrading and a wide range of traders. The platform is suitable for both beginners and advanced users.

2. OKX

OKX provides the ability to select traders based on various parameters including profitability, risk and trading style. A social component for discussing strategies is also available.

3. Binance

Binance, one of the largest crypto exchanges, offers copy trading with advanced customization. Users can copy trades in the spot and futures market.

4. MEXC

The MEXC platform stands out with low fees and a wide selection of cryptocurrencies. Tools for analyzing traders are also available.

5. BingX  

BingX actively develops copytrading, providing users with trader ratings and analytics of their successes.

6. HTX (Huobi)

Huobi offers copytrading with an intuitive interface and support for multiple cryptocurrencies.

7. Bitget

Bitget is known for its convenience and security. The platform regularly updates trader rankings to increase transparency.

8. Gate. io 

Gate.io provides copy-trading with the option to choose between automatic and manual modes.

Conclusion

Copytrading is a convenient tool for those who want to start earning from cryptocurrencies without delving into the complex aspects of trading. It allows you to use the experience of professionals and automate the trading process. However, it is important to keep in mind the risks associated with this method and choose traders, platforms carefully and ideally have a basic knowledge of trading. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is it possible to guarantee profit in copy trading?

No, copy trading does not give anyone any guarantees. The result depends on the trader's strategy, market situation and proper risk management.

2. How to choose the best trader for copy-trading?

Evaluate profitability, risks, trading history and feedback from other users. 

3. How much does copy trading cost?

The cost depends on the platform. Some charge a flat fee, others charge a percentage of profits.

4. Can I copy trades of several traders at the same time?

Yes, many platforms allow you to connect to multiple traders to diversify your risks.

5. Is copytrading suitable for beginners?

Yes, Copytrading is designed for users with any level of experience, but it is important to learn the basics of trading and risk management.