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Understanding Crypto Interest Rates

Learn the difference between Max Rate and Base Rate to make informed decisions about where to earn interest on your cryptocurrency.

Why Two Different Rates?

Cryptocurrency platforms often advertise attractive interest rates to attract users. However, the rate you see in marketing materials is usually the maximum possible rate, which may require meeting specific conditions.

We display both rates so you can see the full picture: what the platform advertises vs. what you're likely to earn in practice.

Max Rate vs Base Rate

Max Rate

The maximum advertised rate that a platform offers. This is the rate you'll typically see in marketing and comparison sites.

To earn the Max Rate, you may need to:

  • Hold or stake the platform's native token
  • Lock funds for a specific period
  • Meet minimum deposit thresholds
  • Reach VIP or loyalty tiers
  • Accept payment in the platform's token

Base Rate

The rate most users actually receive without meeting special requirements. This is the more realistic rate for typical users.

The Base Rate is what you get when you:

  • Deposit without locking funds
  • Don't hold platform tokens
  • Use the default/basic tier
  • Receive interest in the same asset

Real-World Example

A platform might advertise "Up to 12% APY on Bitcoin!"

Max Rate: 12%

Requires holding $1,000 worth of platform tokens + 90-day lock + VIP tier

Base Rate: 4%

Available to all users with no lockup and no token holdings

💡 The 8% difference could significantly impact your expected earnings, especially if you don't want to meet the additional requirements.

When Base Rate Shows "—"

Sometimes you'll see a dash (—) in the Base Rate column. This means we don't have detailed tier or rate structure data for that platform yet.

In these cases, we recommend checking the platform directly to understand their rate requirements before depositing.

Tips for Comparing Rates

  • 1

    Focus on Base Rate first — This is what you'll likely earn without extra effort.

  • 2

    Consider the requirements — Is the Max Rate worth locking funds or buying platform tokens?

  • 3

    Check platform safety — A slightly lower rate on a safer platform may be better than chasing the highest yields.

  • 4

    Verify rates on the platform — Rates change frequently, so always confirm before depositing.

Ready to Compare Rates?

Use our rate comparison tables to find the best interest rates across trusted platforms.

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