Summary
Nicaragua maintains a neutral stance on cryptocurrency trading, with no specific prohibitions or regulatory framework in place. The best crypto exchanges in Nicaragua offer support for USD payments, though the Nicaraguan Córdoba (NIO) isn’t directly supported. Bank transfers and credit cards serve as primary payment methods. The Central Bank of Nicaragua (BCN) oversees financial matters but has not established specific cryptocurrency regulations. Here are the best crypto exchanges in Nicaragua:
Best Crypto Exchanges in Nicaragua
When selecting cryptocurrency exchanges in Nicaragua, traders need platforms that support USD transactions and offer reliable payment methods. While the local currency (NIO) isn’t directly supported by major exchanges, users can still access crypto markets through USD deposits.
1. Binance
Users:
200m
Free Demo:
Mobile App:
Bonus:
$100
Cryptos:
400+
Leverage:
125x
Spot Fees:
0.1%
Futures Fees:
0.02%/0.05%
Pros
- Most comprehensive crypto exchange
- Most advanced features and products
- 24/7 customer support
- 400+ cryptocurrencies
- Reputable with over 200 million users
- Best liquidity
Cons
- Not beginner friendly
- Restricted in many regions due to regulations
- EU traders must use BNFCR for futures trading
Overview
Reaching over 200 million registered users in 2024, Binance is by far the largest crypto exchange in the world. The platform is incredibly comprehensive, offering crypto traders all the tools they need to make a profit in the crypto market.
With over 400 cryptocurrencies to trade, leverage of up to 125x, directly integrated charts from TradingView with tons of technical analysis tools, and many more features, Binance has secured its spot as one of the best crypto exchanges.
Binance offers a wide variety of products, including spot, margin, futures, and options trading, staking, lending, P2P, automated bot trading, copy trading, and even an NFT marketplace. It is safe to say that crypto geeks will find everything they are looking for on Binance.
The trading fees on Binance are very affordable. Binance charges 0.1% trading fees on the spot market (makers and takers alike), which is the industry standard. Where Binance excels is the futures market with fees of only 0.02% for makers and 0.05% for takers.
2. Kraken
Users:
10m
Free Demo:
Mobile App:
Bonus:
None
Cryptos:
220+
Leverage:
100x
Spot Fees:
0.25%/0.4%
Futures Fees:
0.02%/0.05%
Pros
- Very beginner-friendly
- Low futures trading fees
- Free demo trading
- Fiat supported
- 24/7 customer support
- Fully regulated
Cons
- High spot trading fees
- Lacks advanced features
- Poor liquidity for futures trading
- Complicated Demo trading
Kraken Overview
Kraken stands out as one of the most beginner-friendly crypto exchanges. With an easy to understand UI, simple features, and a straightforward approach, Kraken has onboarded over 10 million users to its platform from all around the world.
Spot traders can access over 220 cryptocurrencies for buying and selling. For traders seeking more buying power, Kraken offers a leverage trading platform with up to 50x leverage on selected assets such as BTC.
In terms of fees, Kraken has a different approach for spot and futures trading. While spot trading fees are relatively high (0.25% maker and 0.4% taker), the futures fees are very low (0.02% maker and 0.05% taker). Based on your 30-day trading volume, you can obtain additional fee discounts.
What we love about Kraken is its comprehensive fiat support. You can deposit funds using your credit card or bank transfer. Once you are done trading, you can withdraw fiat currencies such as EUR or USD back to your personal bank account to lock in your profits.
3. BitMart
Users:
9M
Free Demo:
Mobile App:
Bonus:
$50
Cryptos:
1400+
Leverage:
125x
Spot Fees:
0.1%/0.1%
Futures Fees:
0.02%/0.06%
Pros
- No KYC required
- Extensive range of cryptocurrencies
- Upto 125X leverage
- Earn rewards through crypto staking
- Access to an NFT marketplace
Cons
- Limited usability without KYC verification.
- Mixed user feedback
- Slow customer service
BitMart Overview
BitMart is a comprehensive cryptocurrency exchange serving 9 million users globally. The platform supports over 1400 cryptocurrencies, offering spot trading with fees of 0.1% for both makers and takers. BitMart provides futures trading with up to 125x leverage, charging 0.02% for makers and 0.06% for takers.
The exchange features an NFT marketplace and staking options for passive income. BitMart caters to various trader levels with its advanced trading interface and tools. A demo account is available for practice, and mobile apps ensure on-the-go trading.
BitMart operates without KYC requirements, potentially appealing to users valuing privacy. However, this approach may raise regulatory concerns in some jurisdictions.
The platform offers a user-friendly interface with real-time market data and advanced charting tools. BitMart also provides a range of order types, including limit, market, and stop-limit orders. The exchange supports multiple languages and offers 24/7 customer support through various channels, enhancing its accessibility to a global user base.
4. Gate.io
Users:
30m
Free Demo:
Mobile App:
Bonus:
$200
Cryptos:
2100+
Leverage:
150x
Spot Fees:
02%
Futures Fees:
0.015%/0.05%
Pros
- 2100+ supported cryptos
- Very comprehensive crypto exchange
- Copy trading allowed
- 150x leverage
- Fiat deposit methods
Cons
- Lacks advanced features
- Very high spot trading fees
- Poor liquidity
- Very complicated to use
Gate.io Overview
Gate.io is a true powerhouse for altcoin traders with its massive support for over 2100 cryptocurrencies. If you are an altcoin trader, Gate.io will be your new home.
Founded in 2013, Gate.io has established itself as a trusted name in the crypto industry, serving millions of users across more than 130 countries.
With a wide array of trading options, including spot, futures, options, and decentralized finance (DeFi) products, Gate.io caters to both novice and experienced traders. The exchange supports over 2000 cryptocurrencies and consistently ranks among the top exchanges by trading volume.
Beyond trading, Gate.io offers additional services like staking, lending, and an NFT marketplace. With its user-friendly interface, competitive fees, and commitment to compliance with global regulations, Gate.io continues to be a go-to destination for cryptocurrency enthusiasts worldwide.
Spot trading fees on Gate.io start at 0.2% for makers and takers, while futures fees start at 0.02% for makers and 0.05% for takers.
5. MEXC
Users:
15m
Free Demo:
Mobile App:
Bonus
$20,000
Cryptos:
2400+
Leverage:
200x
Spot Fees:
0.02%
Futures Fees:
0%/0.02%
Pros
- Lowest Trading Fees
- 2000+ supported crypto assets
- 200x leverage and deep liquidity
- 24/7 customer support
- Best for altcoin and leverage trading
Cons
- Not available in the US
- Newly launched coins pose high risk
- May request KYC in the future
Overview
MEXC is known as the crypto exchange with the lowest fees. What makes MEXC stand out is its 0% maker fee offer, meaning you can trade without any fees. However, the spot and futures taker fees start at 0.02%. No crypto exchange can compete with the MEXC fee structure.
If you are a day trader seeking high leverage, MEXC may be one of your best options. With 200x leverage over 400 futures contracts and by far the lowest fees, MEXC is truly a day trading heaven.
Even if you are not interested in leverage trading, MEXC has you covered with over 2000 supported cryptocurrencies on the spot market. While MEXC offers tons of new altcoins, we recommend being cautious as the legitimacy of newly listed projects may be questionable.
All in all, MEXC is arguably the best option for high-frequency traders seeking low fees to get the best value for money.
Is Crypto Legal and Regulated in Nicaragua?
Cryptocurrency operates in a legal gray area in Nicaragua. The Central Bank of Nicaragua (BCN) issued a statement in 2019 clarifying that cryptocurrencies are not legal tender and are not backed by the government. However, trading and holding cryptocurrencies is not explicitly prohibited.
The Superintendencia de Bancos y Otras Instituciones Financieras (SIBOIF) has not established specific regulations for cryptocurrency exchanges or trading platforms. Financial institutions must comply with standard anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) requirements when handling transactions that might involve cryptocurrency.
Is Crypto Taxable in Nicaragua?
Nicaragua’s tax framework for cryptocurrencies remains undefined. The Dirección General de Ingresos (DGI) has not issued specific guidelines for cryptocurrency taxation. However, income from cryptocurrency trading may fall under capital gains tax regulations, which typically range from 10% to 30% depending on the amount and nature of the gains.
Disclaimer:
Tax laws are subject to change, and individual circumstances may vary. It is strongly advised to consult with a qualified tax professional or financial advisor for personalized guidance on cryptocurrency taxation in Nicaragua.
How to Buy Crypto in Nicaragua
Nicaraguan residents can access cryptocurrency markets through international exchanges that support USD transactions. Binance offers the most comprehensive trading options for users in Nicaragua.
- Choose a cryptocurrency exchange that accepts USD payments and review their KYC policies.
- Register on the platform and complete identity verification as requested.
- Deposit USD through bank transfer or credit card.
- Select from available assets, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT, and others.
- Place your trade at the current price or use a limit order.
- Move your purchased crypto to a secure wallet for safekeeping.
Best Crypto Wallets in Nicaragua
Nicaraguan cryptocurrency users have access to a range of secure wallet options. Hardware wallets like Ledger and Trezor offer strong security for long-term holdings. For daily use, software wallets such as Trust Wallet and Exodus provide convenient access.
Mobile users often choose MetaMask for DeFi interactions and Trust Wallet for its multi-currency compatibility. These wallets come with key features like backup functionality, multi-currency support, and integration with major exchanges.
Bottom Line
For cryptocurrency trading in Nicaragua, the best crypto exchanges in Nicaragua that stand out are Binance and Kraken. Binance offers comprehensive trading options with competitive fees, while Kraken provides enhanced security features and reliable USD support. Both platforms maintain strong compliance standards and offer multiple payment methods suitable for Nicaraguan users.
