HTX Exchange Review 2026: Is It a Good Choice for Pakistan?

In the fast-evolving world of cryptocurrency, selecting the right exchange is a critical decision for any trader or investor. With global platforms vying for market share, Pakistani users are faced with a growing number of options. One such platform is HTX, a major global player that has recently made significant inroads into the Pakistani market. This in-depth analysis provides an unbiased look at HTX's features, fees, security, and regulatory standing to help you decide if it's the right crypto exchange for your needs in Pakistan.

What is HTX Exchange? A Quick Introduction

First and foremost, it's crucial to clarify a common point of confusion: HTX is the new brand identity for Huobi, one of the oldest and most recognized cryptocurrency exchanges in the world. Founded in 2013, the platform built a formidable global presence over the years. The rebranding to HTX in 2023 marked a new chapter for the exchange, aiming to signify a more global and technologically advanced approach. For Pakistani users, this means they are dealing with a platform that has a decade of operational history and experience. Recently, HTX has shown a clear interest in the Pakistani market, taking proactive steps to align with the country's emerging regulatory framework by engaging with authorities and securing a No Objection Certificate (NOC), signaling a commitment to long-term operations in the region.

Key Features Available for Pakistani Users

HTX offers a comprehensive suite of tools and products tailored to both novice and experienced traders. For users in Pakistan, the most relevant features include:

• Spot Trading: This is the core function of the exchange, providing access to a vast market of hundreds of cryptocurrencies, from major assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum to a wide array of altcoins.
• Futures Trading: For more advanced traders, HTX offers a robust derivatives market. This allows users to speculate on the future price of cryptocurrencies. It is essential to note that futures trading carries significantly higher risk and is not recommended for beginners.
• HTX Earn: This feature allows users to put their crypto assets to work. Through staking, savings, and other investment products, you can earn passive income on your holdings directly on the platform.
• P2P Market: The Peer-to-Peer (P2P) marketplace is the most critical feature for Pakistani users. It serves as the primary gateway for converting Pakistani Rupees (PKR) into crypto and vice versa, facilitating easy deposits and withdrawals through local payment methods like bank transfers and mobile wallets.

HTX Fees: How Much Does Trading Cost?

Understanding the fee structure is vital to managing trading costs effectively. HTX employs a competitive maker/taker fee model for its spot market, where "makers" (who add liquidity) often pay lower fees than "takers" (who remove liquidity). These fees are tiered based on your 30-day trading volume and holdings of the native HTX token. For most new users, the standard fees are in line with industry averages. Deposits of cryptocurrency to the platform are generally free, while withdrawal fees vary depending on the specific coin and network congestion. Importantly, trading on the HTX P2P market typically involves no direct fees from the exchange, though the exchange rates are set by the individual merchants on the platform.

Is HTX Safe? Security and Regulation in Pakistan

Security is the paramount concern for any user entrusting their funds to a centralized exchange. HTX implements industry-standard security protocols to protect user assets. This includes mandatory two-factor authentication (2FA) for all accounts, the majority of funds being held in offline cold storage to prevent online hacks, and real-time risk monitoring systems. These measures are designed to create a secure trading environment for its global user base.

Proof of Reserves and Asset Protection

In the wake of industry-wide concerns about exchange solvency, HTX has adopted a Proof of Reserves (PoR) system. This involves regularly publishing Merkle Tree audits, allowing users to cryptographically verify that their assets are held 1:1 by the exchange. This transparency is a crucial trust signal for users. While the platform has maintained a strong security record, it's worth noting its predecessor, Huobi, faced scrutiny in the past regarding its reserve data. As a user, it is always wise to stay informed about the latest PoR reports. HTX also maintains a security reserve fund to protect users in the unlikely event of a platform breach.

Regulatory Status in Pakistan

HTX has been proactive in its approach to Pakistan's evolving regulatory landscape. The exchange is one of the first major platforms to engage directly with the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA). By securing a No Objection Certificate (NOC), HTX has demonstrated its willingness to operate within the government's future framework. This NOC is a preliminary step, not a full license, but it indicates a cooperative stance that bodes well for the platform's long-term legality and stability within Pakistan. For users, this means HTX is more likely to remain a compliant and accessible platform as regulations are formalized.

Pros and Cons of Using HTX in Pakistan

To make an informed decision, it's essential to weigh the specific advantages and disadvantages of using HTX from a Pakistani perspective. The platform offers a compelling set of features but also has areas where competitors might have an edge.

Advantages of HTX

• Wide selection of altcoins: HTX is known for listing a diverse range of smaller and emerging altcoins that may not be available on larger platforms like Binance.
• Active P2P market: The platform has a liquid and functional P2P marketplace for PKR, making it straightforward to fund an account and cash out profits using local payment methods.
• Competitive trading fees: The fee structure is competitive, and active traders can benefit from further reductions through the VIP program.
• Proactive approach to local regulation: Its engagement with PVARA shows a strong commitment to the Pakistani market, reducing the risk of an abrupt service withdrawal.

Disadvantages of HTX

• Lower trading volume and liquidity: Compared to the market leader Binance, HTX generally has lower trading volumes on major pairs, which can sometimes result in slightly wider spreads.
• The rebranding from Huobi: The name change can create confusion and trust issues for users who were familiar with the old brand or are new to the space.
• Customer support: While functional, customer support response times can occasionally be slower than desired during periods of high market activity.

Final Verdict: Should You Use HTX in 2026?

HTX presents itself as a strong and viable crypto exchange for Pakistani users. It is a particularly compelling choice for intermediate to advanced traders seeking a wider variety of altcoins than what is typically available on mainstream platforms. The robust P2P market and proactive regulatory stance make it a reliable platform for navigating the local crypto ecosystem. While beginners might find the user interface of a larger exchange like Binance slightly more intuitive, HTX is a powerful contender that is clearly invested in its future in Pakistan. For those looking to diversify their trading venues or access specific digital assets, creating an account on HTX is a logical step. Explore more crypto exchange reviews on Crypto Pakistan.

FAQs about HTX in Pakistan

Is HTX the same as Huobi?

Yes, HTX is the new brand name for the global cryptocurrency exchange Huobi. The company rebranded in September 2023 to reflect a new global strategy.

Can I deposit PKR directly into my HTX account?

You cannot deposit PKR directly via a traditional bank transfer. However, you can use the HTX P2P (Peer-to-Peer) market to buy cryptocurrencies like USDT or BTC from other users with your PKR using local payment methods.

How do I buy cryptocurrency on HTX from Pakistan?

The easiest method is to sign up for an account, complete the identity verification (KYC), and then navigate to the P2P section. There, you can select a merchant, send them PKR via a method like EasyPaisa or bank transfer, and they will release the crypto to your HTX wallet.

Is HTX or Binance better for beginners in Pakistan?

Both are strong choices. Binance is often considered slightly more beginner-friendly due to its massive user base and extensive educational resources. However, HTX is also quite intuitive, and its P2P market is very easy to use.

What happens if Pakistan bans crypto exchanges like HTX?

HTX's proactive engagement with the regulator (PVARA) makes a sudden ban less likely compared to non-compliant exchanges. However, the regulatory environment is still developing. It is always wise to stay informed and not keep your entire portfolio on any single exchange.

Does HTX have a mobile app?

Yes, HTX offers a full-featured mobile application for both iOS and Android devices, allowing you to trade, manage your portfolio, and use the P2P market on the go.

Making the right choice of exchange is fundamental to a successful crypto journey. As Pakistan's trusted crypto news source, we provide unbiased analysis to help you navigate the complex world of digital assets safely. For a broader comparison of platforms available to you, we recommend you Read our guide on the Best Crypto Exchanges in Pakistan for more options.