Gate.io (formerly Bter.com; rebranded as Gate.io in 2017) is a centralized cryptocurrency exchange founded in 2013, headquartered in the Cayman Islands with operations globally. Gate.io is distinguished primarily by its exceptionally wide selection of altcoins — typically listing 1,500+ trading pairs including many tokens from early-stage projects that are unavailable elsewhere. It consistently ranks among the top 5-10 exchanges globally by spot trading volume and is notable for operating continuously since 2013 without a major hack or insolvency event.
Platform Overview
Here is a breakdown of the key components.
Core Products
Spot Trading:
- One of the widest altcoin selections of any major exchange
- Frequently the first or second exchange to list newly launched tokens
- Basic and Pro trading interfaces
Futures & Perpetuals:
- Perpetual futures on major and mid-cap assets
- Up to 100x leverage on major pairs
Gate Ventures / Startup:
- IEO (Initial Exchange Offering) launchpad — “Gate Startup”
- Early access to new tokens for GT holders
Earn Products:
- Staking, flexible savings, dual investment structured products
Gate Web3:
- Non-custodial wallet and DApp browser
- Multi-chain NFT marketplace
On-Chain Products
History
| Year | Events |
|---|---|
| 2013 | Founded as Bter.com (one of the earliest Chinese crypto exchanges) |
| 2015 | Bter suffers a hack — 7,170 BTC stolen from cold storage; rebuilt and continued operations |
| 2017 | Rebranded to Gate.io; GT token launched |
| 2018 | HT token listed; expands derivatives offerings |
| 2021 | Gate.io Startup (IEO launchpad) gains prominence; GT token utility expanded |
| 2022 | Gate.io publishes Proof of Reserves during FTX crisis — among first major exchanges to do so |
| 2023 | Expands regulatory presence in multiple jurisdictions; obtains licenses in several EU countries |
| 2024 | Gate.io consistently ranks top-5 in altcoin volume; GateChain activity grows |
| 2025 | Maintains broad reputation as the go-to exchange for altcoin access |
GT Token
GT (Gate Token) is Gate.io’s native platform token:
- Trading fee discounts (up to 40% for GT holders)
- IEO allocation access on Gate Startup
- Staking rewards
- Periodic buyback and burn from exchange revenues
- Used on GateChain for gas fees
GT operates on a deflationary model — the exchange commits to buying back and burning GT quarterly using a percentage of trading revenue.
Gate Startup (IEO Launchpad)
Gate.io’s IEO platform has launched dozens of projects. The launchpad model requires users to hold GT to receive allocations. Gate Startup has had several notable launches, including projects that 10-50x’d from launch price, and some that failed — typical of IEO platforms.
Common Misconceptions
“Gate.io is a smaller/less reputable exchange”
Gate.io is one of the longest-running exchanges in crypto (since 2013) without a major insolvency event. It lacks Binance-level brand recognition in Western markets but is large and well-regarded in Asian and Eastern European markets.
“You need KYC to use Gate.io”
Gate.io has tiered KYC. Limited trading is available without KYC, but full withdrawal limits and access to all features require identity verification. US residents are restricted.
Social Media Sentiment
Gate.io is respected for its extensive altcoin listings — traders hunting newly launched tokens often use it as a first resort. It is less glamorous than Binance or Coinbase but has a loyal user base of serious altcoin traders. Proof-of-reserves publication during the FTX crisis was well-received and boosted confidence. Criticism typically focuses on its complex UX and occasional token delistings. The exchange is rarely involved in major controversies relative to peers.
Last updated: 2026-04
Related Terms
Sources
- Gate.io. (2022). Gate.io Proof of Reserves Report. Gate.io Blog.
- CoinGecko. (2025). Exchange Rankings by Reported Volume. CoinGecko.com.
- Chainalysis. (2022). 2022 Crypto Exchange Report: Altcoin Market Access. Chainalysis.