Bitfinex vs Luno 2026
Both records check out. What separates them is how you trade.
The case for Bitfinex rests on tighter spreads, more listed coins (170 vs 45); Luno pulls ahead where a trader weighs specific use cases detailed below more heavily.
Head to head
| Bitfinex | Luno | |
|---|---|---|
| Primary regulator | El Salvador DASP Registered | FCA cryptoasset register Registered |
| Regulation tier | offshore | tier-1 |
| Min deposit | None | None |
| Taker fee | 0.1% taker | 0.5% taker |
| Listed coins | 170+ | 45+ |
| Native platform | Standard | Standard |
| Copy trading | No | No |
| Spot self-custody | Custodial | Custodial |
| Inactivity fee | None | None |
| Founded | 2012 | 2013 |
| Headquarters | British Virgin Islands | London, United Kingdom |
Regulation: Bitfinex vs Luno
Bitfinex operates as Bitfinex Securities El Salvador under El Salvador DASP. This is a lighter-touch registration with fewer customer protections than major frameworks such as the FCA cryptoasset register, MiCA CASP or a NYDFS licence.
Luno operates as Luno Money Ltd under FCA cryptoasset register. This is a recognised registration framework, with customer-asset segregation, AML rules and ongoing compliance obligations.
On the register, Luno carries the heavier record — a FCA cryptoasset register registration from a tier-1 authority.
Trading fees
Bitfinex's taker fee is 0.1% taker. Luno's taker fee is 0.5% taker. Bitfinex offers lower trading fees.
Bitfinex does not charge an inactivity fee. Luno does not charge an inactivity fee.
Platforms and tools
Both Bitfinex and Luno provide native web and mobile trading platforms.
Neither exchange offers copy trading.
Minimum deposit
Bitfinex requires a minimum deposit of None. Luno requires None. Both require the same initial deposit.
Keep in mind that the opening figure shifts with account type and with the entity that maps to your country. An offshore book can set the bar below the tier-1 entity.
Which is better for beginners?
Both platforms are accessible to new traders, though neither is specifically designed as a beginner-only exchange.
Which is better for experienced traders?
Bitfinex's lower fees (0.1% taker) make it better for high-frequency strategies. Bitfinex lists more coins (170) for portfolio diversification.
Verdict: Bitfinex vs Luno
Bitfinex is the record to take if tighter spreads, more listed coins (170 vs 45) is what you are after; its El Salvador DASP registration (Registered) carries offshore-style latitude.
Luno reads as the better fit for specific use cases detailed below, with a FCA cryptoasset register registration (Registered) that carries the weight of a tier-1 authority.
Both files are genuine and on the register. Which one wins is settled by what you actually need at the terminal.
Frequently asked questions
Bitfinex vs Luno: which is better?
Bitfinex is better for tighter spreads, more listed coins (170 vs 45). Luno is better for specific use cases detailed below. If regulation quality is your priority, Luno (FCA cryptoasset register).
Is Bitfinex or Luno safer?
Luno holds a FCA cryptoasset register licence (Registered) from a tier-1 regulator. Bitfinex is regulated by El Salvador DASP.
What is the minimum deposit for Bitfinex and Luno?
Bitfinex minimum deposit: None. Luno minimum deposit: None. Minimums vary by entity and account type.
Do Bitfinex and Luno have API access?
Both Bitfinex and Luno provide native web and mobile platforms.