Figure Markets Overview
Figure Markets launched in 2024 as a US-focused crypto platform under the Figure Technologies umbrella. Backed by names like Pantera and Jump Crypto, with leadership from SoFi’s co-founder Mike Cagney, it offers fee-free trading, direct wallet control and real-world yields under SEC compliance. It targets users who want TradFi structure with DeFi-style custody.
What makes Figure unique
- Zero trading fees: BTC, ETH and key pairs trade at 0 %, saving serious costs over time.
- True self-custody: MPC wallets ensure you hold your keys and assets - not the exchange.
- Regulated yields: A HELOC-backed vault pays close to 7 %, while the SEC-registered YLDS stablecoin earns around 3.8 %.
- Crypto-backed loans: Borrow against BTC or ETH at roughly 12.5 % APR without triggering tax events.
Highlights & trade-offs
- Highlights: Fee-free trading, SEC documentation on yield products, deep US compliance, full control via MPC wallets.
- Trade-offs: Small asset list (around 7 coins), mostly US coverage, low global trading volumes so far, no high-risk altcoin zones.
User interface & experience
Figure Markets feels more like a polished banking app than a typical exchange. Quick Buy/Sell is simple, while Pro mode adds order books and advanced orders. Mobile and desktop both run smoothly, with every action tied to your MPC wallet so you never lose custody.
Markets & liquidity
Liquidity is steady for typical retail orders on BTC or ETH, but the platform isn’t globally ranked on volume charts yet. You trade from a tight asset list by design, focusing on regulated products instead of altcoin hype.
Fees, deposits & withdrawals
Trading costs sit at 0 % for core pairs. You can deposit or withdraw USD via ACH or wire, and move crypto directly into your MPC wallet. Loans run near 12.5 %, while staking in Forward Vault or holding YLDS delivers 3-7 % depending on product.
Safety & trust signals
Self-custody ensures your keys stay yours. SEC filings on yield products and heavy US licensing mean tight oversight. However, the exchange is still new, so it doesn’t have a long operational history like Coinbase. You’ll find audits on specific products but not the same deep stress-tested volume records.
Who should use Figure?
- Best for: US investors wanting fee-free trades, secure self-custody, and steady regulated yields.
Not suited for global users hunting obscure coins or degens chasing 100x meme pumps.
How to get started
- Register and complete strict KYC tied to US compliance.
- Fund your MPC wallet with crypto or USD.
- Trade core assets with zero fees, or borrow without selling.
- Stake into Forward Vault or hold YLDS to earn passive returns.
- Withdraw anytime, always controlling your own keys.
Final thoughts
Figure Markets stands out by merging self-custody with heavy regulatory compliance and real yield options. It’s built for steady hands, not short-term gamblers. If you’re a US trader seeking control plus TradFi guardrails, it’s a smart niche play. Just don’t expect hundreds of altcoins or meme-driven chaos - that’s not Figure’s game.