YouHodler Review

27 June, 2023

YouHodler, a crypto exchange and lending platform, offers high interest on crypto deposits and provides clear information about its risks, rates, and fees. Users can collateralize digital assets for short-term loans, which can be used for advanced trading. However, its unavailability in the US and high loan APR might dissuade some investors.

Shawn Munir
Written by
Shawn Munir
Shawn Munir Shawn Munir Expert Author
Shawn Munir is the CEO of Coinweb.com and spearheads all the collaborative partnerships for the platform. He bought his first Bitcoin in 2017 and never looked back. He is also an investor in 200+ Web3 startups and is considered an expert in the field. Before building Coinweb with his co-founders, he co-founded Presail, a management...
Massimo Moretti
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Massimo, a seasoned entrepreneur, and CEO of SIGNVM Group, has an impressive 6-year history in the Web3, Crypto, and Blockchain space. His key achievements include founding a pioneering VR/AR studio in Paris and serving as Huobi Global's Business Development Director and Country Director in France. Massimo excelled at building strong partnerships with top exchanges like...
youhodler lending review
Our Review
4.8
Pros
  • Earn interest in your digital assets.
  • Borrow against your crypto.
  • Access advanced trading tools.
  • Effective customer service.
Cons
  • High APR on loans.
  • Regional restrictions in some countries.
  • Lacks transparency in the interest rate rates.
Our Editorial Standards:
Our content is designed to educate the soon-to-arrive millions of crypto investors who use the Coinweb platform. At Coinweb.com, we prioritize clear and accurate cryptocurrency insights through a rigorous editorial process vetted by Web3 experts.
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This YouHodler review will thoroughly analyze different features of the crypto lending platform. It aims to help you determine whether or not it suits your needs.

With YouHodler, users can go beyond the traditional functions of their crypto assets. You can amplify their gains on deposited crypto assets through innovative offerings like the Multi HODL and Dual Asset products. These features enable users to explore new avenues for growth and financial prosperity.

Additionally, thanks to a robust and user-friendly platform, YouHodler empowers crypto enthusiasts to leverage their assets securely and efficiently. It brings users one step closer to achieving their financial goals.

Youhodler review
Youholder 2024 Review.

What is YouHodler?

Founded in 2017 by Ilya Volkov, a Crypto Valley Association board member, YouHodler is a leading digital financial institution. It specializes in providing crypto-backed loans to its valued customers.

The platform’s primary objective is to assist users in fully harnessing the potential of their cryptocurrency holdings while retaining ownership.

YouHodler offers a comprehensive suite of financial solutions designed to cater to the diverse needs of its user base. These include YouHodler loans, a high-yield YouHodler savings account, and on-chain staking opportunities.

On top of that, it also offers a reliable cryptocurrency exchange facilitating seamless conversions between crypto-fiat and crypto-crypto.

Who should use YouHodler?

YouHolder is designed to fit your diverse crypto needs. Here’s who we think should use the platform.

For those who want high-risk trading tools

For those comfortable with higher-risk trading tools, YouHodler exchange and lending offers a range of options to enhance your trading experience.

Whether leveraging your positions or engaging in advanced trading strategies, the platform caters to users seeking more adventurous trading opportunities.

For those who use Crypto as loan collateral

If you wish to use crypto as collateral for a loan, YouHodler allows you to unlock the value of your assets.

Using your crypto as collateral allows you to access funds for various purposes while retaining ownership of your digital assets. This feature provides flexibility and liquidity to meet your financial needs.

Borrow instant crypto loans.
Borrow instant crypto loans.

Why choose YouHodler?

Let’s explore the reasons that make YouHolder a go-to lending platform.

Advanced trading tools

Apart from borrowing features, YouHodler offers advanced trading tools that enable customers to engage in leveraged buying of cryptocurrencies.

Plus, these tools can also be used for other sophisticated trading strategies. For instance, you can take positions on the price movement of a cryptocurrency, either by going long or short. Additionally, you can strengthen your investments using borrowed funds.

Earn interest in your crypto

Earn interest with your crypto assets by exploring opportunities for passive income on YouHodler. It offers competitive interest rates of approximately 5% on altcoins and around 12% on stablecoins, depending on the specific currency.

Besides that, the interest compounds every week and is paid out in the same crypto token. You cannot deposit crypto like Bitcoin and expect to earn interest in a different fiat money. But you have the flexibility to withdraw your funds whenever you need them.

Earning interest with crypto savings accounts.
Earning interest with crypto savings accounts.

While these rates compare favorably to other crypto lending platforms, it’s always a good idea to shop around and consider different options.

For instance, staking specific cryptocurrencies or providing liquidity on trading platforms can also generate earnings. Each alternative has its advantages and disadvantages.

Borrow against your crypto

Since these are secured loans, there’s no requirement for a credit check, and the approval process is typically instantaneous. That’s why you should consider taking on any loan and evaluate whether or not you need it.

If you need cash and hold cryptocurrency, YouHodler allows you to use your crypto as collateral for a loan. Interestingly, the platform offers high loan-to-value ratios (LTVs), determining the percentage of crypto collateral available to borrow money.

For example, with an LTV of 80%, someone holding $1,500 worth of cryptocurrency could borrow $1,200.

Strict know-your-customer (KYC)

YouHodler follows know-your-customer (KYC) and anti-money laundering (AML) processes. This can be seen as positive or negative, depending on your perspective. If you prefer anonymous cryptocurrency trading, YouHodler may not align with your preferences.

However, if you value the assurance of investing with a company committed to preventing money laundering, YouHodler takes these matters seriously. Not only that, but it keeps the platform safe and free from any scammers or bad actors.

KYC YouHodler.
KYC YouHodler.

Good customer service

YouHodler receives positive feedback with a TrustPilot score of 4.4 out of 5. Customers appreciate their prompt customer service and competitive Crypto interest rates.

Some customers expressed dissatisfaction with YouHodler’s withdrawal options. We recommend you understand the platform and its withdrawal process before transferring significant money to any cryptocurrency exchange service.

YouHodler customer support team.
YouHodler customer support team.

Getting Started with YouHodler

Here is an easy step-by-step process on how to get started with crypto lending on Youhodler.

Tradable Coins
  • 30+
Payment Options
  • Crypto/Card
Fees
  • 1 – 1.5%

More details

YouHodler, a crypto exchange and lending platform, offers high interest on crypto deposits and provides clear information about its risks, rates, and fees. Users can collateralize digital assets for short-term loans, which can be used for advanced trading. However, its unavailability in the US and high loan APR might dissuade some investors.


  • Earn interest in your digital assets.

  • Borrow against your crypto.

  • Access advanced trading tools.

  • Effective customer service.

  • High APR on loans.

  • Regional restrictions in some countries.

  • Lacks transparency in the interest rate rates.

Step 1: Visit the website

Start by visiting the YouHodler website and clicking the blue [Sign Up] button on the top right.

YouHodler account.
YouHodler account.

Step 2: Enter details

Next, enter your e-mail address, country of residence, and password. When done, click [Sign Up].

Sign up for a YouHodler account and get YouHodler loans.
Sign up for a YouHodler account and get YouHodler loans.

Step 3: Verify e-mail

After that, you will receive an e-mail verification in your mailbox verifying the code. When done, click [Continue].

Creating YouHodler account.
Creating a YouHodler account.

Step 4: Identity verification

Congratulations! You have successfully created your account. Now, you can verify your identity anytime by clicking [Identity Verification] on your dashboard.

YouHodler review: savings account.
YouHodler review: savings account.

Youhodler Review: Key Features & Perks

Explore exceptional features of YouHolder that outrank it from its competitors.

Competitive returns and easy loans

YouHodler provides users with a savings account feature that allows them to generate good returns and earn a passive income. You can deposit cryptocurrencies into a savings account instead of traditional fiat currencies like USD.

Additionally, the deposited crypto funds will automatically start earning interest, which is paid weekly. Plus, you can keep your crypto interest in your account and earn compounded interest.

If you plan to hold your cryptocurrencies long-term but need immediate access to cash, YouHodler allows you to borrow fiat money using their crypto assets as collateral. This feature enables users to obtain fiat cash without selling their crypto holdings.

Users will receive their crypto asset collateral back when the outstanding full loan amount is repaid. This way, they can benefit from the potential price increases in their crypto assets without missing out on market gains.

Maximize profits with MultiHODL

For those seeking higher rewards, more crypto, and comfort with increased risk, YouHodler offers the innovative MultiHODL tool. You can allocate 80% of your crypto deposits to a savings account with a guaranteed fixed income.

Lastly, you can allocate the remaining 20% for speculative and high-reward investments, which, despite their inherent risks, provide opportunities for substantial returns.

Multil HODL.
Multil HODL.

Chain Loans with Turbocharge

YouHodler presents the unique Turbocharge feature, allowing users to obtain a series of loans in a chain. Turbocharge comes into play when users anticipate a bull run and aim to accumulate more cryptocurrencies for maximum profits.

Users can use borrowed fiat and crypto funds to repay their previous loans and purchase additional cryptos without any commission fees. Furthermore, they can use the newly acquired crypto assets as collateral for other loans, enabling a continuous cycle of leveraging their investments.

Crypto loans with turbocharge.
Crypto loans with turbocharge.

Dual asset product and On-chain staking

Under the Dual Asset Product offered by YouHodler, users can generate higher interest rates by staking their crypto or stablecoins. This innovative feature can provide impressive annual percentage rates (APR) of up to 365%, surpassing the returns typically earned through traditional savings accounts.

YouHodler has recently introduced staking as an additional option for users to diversify their investment portfolio within the platform.

This feature supports various cryptocurrencies, including popular options such as Ethereum, Solana, and Polkadot. By embracing staking, YouHodler empowers users to maximize their earnings potential and explore new avenues for financial growth.

Dual asset and On-chain staking.
Dual asset and On-chain staking.

Security and safety

YouHodler prioritizes user security by implementing standard security measures like two-factor authentication (TFA). Users with account balances exceeding $10,000 can enhance security by reducing withdrawal options.

To safeguard customer assets, YouHodler utilizes a combination of hot and cold wallets. While the precise percentage of funds kept in offline cold storage remains undisclosed, the platform’s partnership with Ledger Vault, a well-known authority in digital asset security, ensures protection.

This partnership ensures encrypted security for private keys, making them inaccessible to YouHodler staff. The Ledger Vault partnership also includes pooled insurance of up to $150 million to safeguard against crimes such as fraud or theft.

While this insurance covers customers, it does not extend to compensating for exchange failures, a standard limitation across all crypto exchange platforms. Traditional banking deposits are protected by FDIC insurance, but this does not apply to cryptocurrencies.

Furthermore, YouHodler highlights its association with organizations like the Blockchain Association, providing avenues for dispute resolution.

YouHodler security and safety.
YouHodler security and safety.

Fees and costs

YouHodler implements a fee structure that aims to provide clarity and transparency to its users. No fees are involved when depositing cryptocurrencies and stablecoins with a crypto wallet, offering a convenient way to fund your account.

However, most bank wire transfers are costly if you prefer depositing fiat currencies through a bank wire transfer or card.

Regarding Crypto withdrawals, the withdrawal fees are determined by the specific coin and blockchain network you choose for the transaction. On the other hand, bank withdrawals are subject to currency-specific charges.

Borrowing loans on YouHodler is fee-free, but certain advanced loan management features, such as the [Close Now] option, carry a nominal fee of 1% based on the overdraft amount. Extending the loan duration or increasing the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio also incurs small fees of 1% and 1.5%, respectively.

YouHodler fees and costs.
YouHodler fees and costs.

Diverse Cryptocurrency support

YouHodler offers 24 cryptocurrencies and eight stablecoins crypto collateral on which users can earn interest. However, some cryptocurrencies like Cardano (ADA), Tezos (XTZ), and Monero (XMR) can be used as collateral but do not generate interest payments.

It can be unpleasant, especially considering that Cardano and Tezos can be staked on other crypto platforms to earn rewards.

In addition to cryptocurrencies, YouHodler supports digital collectibles and non-fungible tokens (NFTs). Users can trade NFTs or use them as collateral for a loan. It adds an exciting dimension to the platform and expands the possibilities for users to leverage their digital assets.

Here are some of the supported tokens:

  • Bitcoin (BTC)
  • Ethereum (ETH)
  • Huobi Token (HT)
  • Uniswap (UNI)
  • Tether (USDT)
  • DAI (DAI)
  • STASIS EURO (EURS)
  • USD Coin (USDC)
YouHodler review: Diverse crypto support.
Diverse crypto support.

Multi-coin wallet app

The platform offers a versatile multi-coin YouHodler wallet for conveniently storing and managing crypto assets. It is compatible with iOS, Android, and desktop systems, providing accessibility across various devices.

In this wallet, you can:

  • Securely store Bitcoin and other supported cryptocurrencies.
  • Earn interest on your stored crypto and borrow funds directly from the wallet.
  • Effortlessly withdraw and transfer your crypto assets.
  • Conveniently exchange cryptocurrencies within the wallet.
YouHodler wallet app.
YouHodler wallet app.

Youhodler Review: Major Drawbacks

Although the platform has numerous outstanding features, it still lacks in some departments.

Not available in the U.S.

YouHodler does not cater to residents of the U.S. This restriction may be due to the strict regulations surrounding leveraged trading options in the country.

If you use YouHodler’s services from the U.S., China, or other banned countries, your account could be frozen, potentially losing investment returns. Customers must provide proof of their physical addresses to withdraw funds from the exchange.

Therefore, using a platform from a banned country is not advisable. Instead, consider exploring licensed cryptocurrency exchanges operating in the U.S. that offer competitive interest rates.

Here are some other restricted countries:

  • USA
  • Bangladesh
  • China
  • Iraq
  • Pakistan
  • Cuba
  • Iran
  • North Korea
  • Syria

Minimum investment

YouHodler has a minimum deposit amount of $5. But to earn interest on your funds, you must meet a minimum of $100 or more, depending on market volatility on the cryptocurrency.

Moreover, this minimum applies to each coin, not the total value of your crypto portfolio. Let’s say you own Bitcoin (BTC), Ripple (XRP), and Ethereum (ETH); you would need to deposit at least $100 worth of each to earn interest.

Lack of transparency

Transparency is crucial for both borrowers and savers. When receiving high interest rates, it is critical to understand the source of the funds. Finding this information on YouHodler’s website takes a lot of work.

The interest paid to customers likely comes from the interest charged on loans; however, this must be clearly stated. It is also possible that some decentralized finance (DeFi) lenders engage in high-risk lending to generate higher returns.

All lenders based in the US must disclose the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) on personal loans. It includes the total annual cost of borrowing, including interest and fees. This enables borrowers to compare options accurately. While YouHodler provides the total loan cost, they do not disclose the APR.

High APRs and limited terms on loans

YouHodler’s APRs are based on total loan costs, which are relatively high compared to several top personal loans that do not require collateral. They are comparable to APRs on many credit cards with reasonable terms.

If you need a more loan-to-value ratio, exploring different lenders and comparing terms is advisable to find the most favorable option.

Although borrowers can extend their loan duration and terms with YouHodler, the longest initial loan term available is six months. Non-crypto lenders often offer extended loan periods, giving borrowers more repayment flexibility.

Drawbacks of YouHodler.
Drawbacks of YouHodler.

What could be improved?

YouHodler, as a digital financial institution, has several areas that could benefit from improvement. One aspect is the transparency of its interest rates and lending terms, as more precise information would help users make more informed decisions.

Additionally, expanding the range of cryptocurrencies eligible for earning interest and using it as collateral would enhance the platform’s offerings.

Furthermore, providing more comprehensive customer support channels and addressing user concerns promptly would enhance the overall user experience. Continued efforts to improve security measures and address potential vulnerabilities would also build trust and confidence among users.

Youhodler Review: Our verdict

YouHodler is a legitimate platform that offers various features for cryptocurrency holders. It is particularly beneficial for those who want to earn interest on their cryptocurrencies rather than keeping them idle.

While YouHodler may not be the ideal option for long-term borrowing due to its high interest rates, it is a suitable solution for short-term cash flow needs. By leveraging the platform, users can explore opportunities to save their cryptocurrencies instead of selling them.

With the ability to borrow money in cash at a minimum interest rate, users can access funds without liquidating their crypto assets.