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As more people around the world embrace cryptocurrency, exchange platforms are hard at work to position themselves as the preferred choice for traders. In Canada, the VirgoCX exchange has emerged as one of the best crypto trading options.

In this article, we give an in-depth review of the company to see if they are living up to their aspirations of making trading safe, easy, and affordable.

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Pros

  • Variety of coins

  • Streamlined sign-up process

  • Flawless security track record

  • Strong regulatory compliance

Cons

  • Only available in Canada

  • Relatively small liquidity

VirgoCX at a Glance

Notable Features

Referral program, user-friendly platform, Virgo boost

Fees

0% trading & deposit fees + spread on selected coins

Cryptocurrencies

90+ cryptocurrencies

Security Features

Cold storage, 2FA, proof-of-reserves

KYC Requirements

Requires ID verification, and proof-of-residence

Maximum Daily Deposit Amount

No deposit limit

In-depth Details: What’s to Like and What You Should Know

VirgoCX exchange is a Canadian-based platform that aims to provide users with a secure way to buy and sell cryptocurrencies. It serves both beginners and experienced traders with a clean interface and advanced crypto tools. They don’t charge any fees on deposits and withdrawals, but they do apply a small spread on selected coins.

I really enjoyed using the exchange as it was easy to navigate. The team designed every instrument with the goal of make trading simple. The market page has a clean, straightforward layout, and users can set up the chart display using either lines or candlesticks.

Beginners will easily find their footing thanks to clearly defined buttons for buying and selling crypto. At the same time, experienced users can customize their chart settings and apply technical indicators without limitation.

While the service doesn’t offer as many coins as some of the more established entities, it includes all the most popular ones, such as Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), DOGE Coin, XRP, and even Shiba INU.

I particularly like that I could create my own application programming interface (API) and install it on the platform. Using an API lets me automate trades, track real-time prices, and build custom trading tools.

History and Background

VirgoCX was launched in 2018, positioning itself as Canada’s trusted cryptocurrency trading platform. Its mission was to make trading easy, safe, and cost-effective. In 2019, the team released their first iOS mobile app, allowing users to trade crypto on the go.

As the crypto market boomed, the company grew rapidly. In 2021, after achieving 300% growth in trading volume, they expanded their offerings to include NFTs, DeFi services, and staking opportunities. This growth also drove the launch of a redesigned app and website, along with an increased selection of tokens.

In 2022, they introduced VirgoCX Wealth, a full-service trade desk designed for large block and high-value transactions.

Today, the platform supports trading for over 90 cryptocurrencies and offers a variety of features, including reward programs that enhance the user experience.

Safety and Security

One of the main aspects we considered in our VirgoCX review was safety and security.

The platform believes that safe trading begins with best-in-class security systems which is why they implement several preventative measures to give their clients peace of mind.

Institutional-grade control is exercised on all transactions. By using a self-custody model, the platform ensures that clients maintain control of their funds at all times.

Reputable third-parties regularly conduct audits to review their processes and technology. This includes monitoring its systems for suspicious activity.

They also comply with PIPEDA (privacy act in Canada for protection of personal information) and its status as a registered FINTRAC money provider ensures compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Here are some of the things that caught my eye:

  • 2FA: Provides an extra layer of security when you log in and withdraw funds
  • Cold storage: Funds are stored offline making them less susceptible to online hacks
  • Non-custodial wallet: Allows traders to manage their own funds
  • OTC trading: VirgoCX Wealth provides personalized services for high-volume trades
  • NFT marketplace: Built in platforming for trading NFT’s
  • Recurring buys: Allows users to automate purchases

 

My Overview: The platform’s intuitive interface, with advanced features like automated and recurring purchases, makes it easy to use. Its wide selection of cryptocurrencies and NFTs is ideal for diversifying holdings, while the new non-custodial wallet and strong security features provide added peace of mind.

Special features

VirgoCX offers a range of special features, including advanced features like technical analysis, interactive charting, recent transaction history, and real-time order book depth. They also have various reward programs which incentivizes frequent trading and referring new users.

The Virgo Boost Program allows registered app users earn bits when they complete activities, without needing to execute trades. These bits can be redeemed for rewards including discounts on spreads, merchandize and event tickets.

Its referral program rewards users with 10% of the spread revenue generated from the trades made by the people they refer.

Usability

In my review, I extensively tested the platform’s usability. As an experienced trader, I appreciate that the simple interface doesn’t compromise its advanced functionalities. Beginners will be able to navigate the platform and execute trades with ease.

The mobile app is also easy to use and provides earning opportunities for completing fun activities. Overall, the exchange will be suitable for most people, regardless of their trading experience.

Customer support

Customer support is a key factor in any crypto platform review. The service has a live chat feature which is available on their website and mobile application, ensuring user questions are answered swiftly.

The live chat is available Monday to Friday between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM Eastern Time. Users can also contact the exchange via email, in addition to accessing their vast library of self-help resources.

Premium OTC support is available to VirgoCX Direct & Wealth members. These clients benefit from dedicated account managers, priority support, and personalized trading assistance.

VirgoCX Mobile App

The trading platform has a mobile app for iOS and Android devices, allowing users to instantly execute crypto swaps and purchases directly from their mobile device.

App users can also trade commission-free and enjoy zero deposit fees. One of the best characteristics of the app is its automatic verification process, which allows you to access your account in minutes.

VirgoCX Direct: Exploring the Benefits Available to High Value Traders

The Direct version is geared towards serving users making high-value trades starting from $30,000 CAD. It offers tight spreads and fixed pricing while also granting access to a dedicated account manager to assist with every trade. Settlements are usually completed within in one business day.

VirgoCX Wealth Platform: How It Rewards Your Large-Volume Trade

In 2022 VirgoCX Wealth Platform was launched, which is tailored for professional traders, institutions, and businesses. The bespoke service lets subscribers use its next-generation OTC features along with an API integration and a custom-built dashboard.

Using Wealth gives you access to a dedicated support team. Traders with a monthly trade volume of $350,000 CAD or more can even apply for a revenue share increase through the platform’s shared rewards program.

The True Cost of Trading on This Exchange

Unlike most exchanges that charge maker and taker fees, our VirgoCX review concluded that the platform uses a spread-based pricing model. This means the cost of each trade is included in the difference between the buy and sell prices, rather than as a separate transaction fee.

Service
Cost
Spread on trading fees
~0.95% for major coins and up to 1.6% on other coins
CAD – USD conversion
0.95% – 1.85%
Interac e-Transfer (CAD)
Free
Wire Transfer
Free for deposits of $3000 and up
Credit card deposit
Between 3.99% and 6.99%
Debit card deposit
Between 2.99% and 5.99%
Crypto withdrawals
Varies

Does The Platform Impose Monthly Fees?

There is a subscription service called Virgo Plus which includes tier upgrades, spread discounts, and other exclusive rewards. There is a basic plan starting from $19.99 CAD a month as well as a pro plan costing around $32.99 CAD monthly.

Users can choose to pay their subscription for 180 days or 360 days at a discounted rate. It comes with several perks, including up to 40% off trading spreads, Bits rewards, and crypto withdrawal fee coverage.

How To Set Up a VirgoCX Account

  • Step 1: Visit VirgoCX
  • Step 2: Click on the purple “Sign Up” button on the top right of the screen
  • Step 3: Enter the required information including email address, password, and a referral code (if applicable)
  • Step 4: Carefully read the terms of service and click “Sign Up”
  • Step 5: Verify your email address
  • Step 6: Click on the “Proceed to Verify” button
  • Step 7: Set up 2 Factor Authentication (2FA)

Once you completed all the required steps, they will verify your account and authenticate your identity. This is done to comply with KYC, anti-money laundering, and anti-terrorist financing policies. After your account has been validated, you can start trading.

What Can You Buy On VirgoCX

Who Is VirgoCX For? What Other Users Have to Say

We’ve determined this is a particularly ideal platform for both beginners and intermediate crypto traders. Its user-friendly interface is easy to navigate and makes trading simple. More experienced users will enjoy the platform’s Direct and Wealth offerings which incentivizes frequent and large volume transactions.

However, advanced traders might find the platform limiting, as it doesn’t offer margin trading, broad fiat support, a wide range of tokens, or advanced derivative instruments.

Why You Should Trust CryptoVantage: How I Reviewed VirgoCX

CryptoVantage’s method for ranking the best cryptocurrency exchanges on the market evaluates various aspects of trading digital assets. Some of the specific things we look at include:

  • Trade volumes and asset availability
  • Trading features and tools
  • Security
  • Transparency, reputation, and support
  • Fees and added costs
  • Ease of use

VirgoCX Alternatives

VirgoCX is a solid crypto service with all the core features and functionalities needed to trade digital assets. However, depending on your needs and experience, there are several strong alternatives worth considering.

For beginners, platforms like Shakepay and Bitbuy offer simple-to-use interfaces and easy onboarding. If you’re looking for a broader range of features or coins, Coinbase and NDAX are also excellent options.

Final Thoughts: Is VirgoCX Worth It

The answer to whether this platform is worth it ultimately depends on your personal circumstances. Straight off the bat, it’s important to note that the platform is only available in Canada.

This means individuals outside the country may need to consider other cryptocurrency exchanges. However, if you are based in Canada and want a no-fuss trading experience with access to some of the world’s most popular tokens, VirgoCX is a strong contender.

While reviewing this exchange, it quickly became clear they have everything you need to easily execute trades while securely storing your crypto assets. Its registration with FINTRAC as a Money Services Business also means it operates under strict legal and compliance standards.

It’s adherence to PIPEDA (the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act), means that user data is handled in compliance with Canada’s security standards.

The platform has relatively low fees and users only pay a spread on all of their transactions. Funding your account is smooth thanks to the exchange’s allowance of Interac e-Transfers and wire transfers, as well as Credit and Debit card transfers.

FAQs


The exchange prides itself on being both secure and safe to invest in. It’s registration as FINTRAC as a Money Service Business (MSB) means they comply with the highest financial safety standards in Canada. It also employs several security measures including 2FA SSL and cold storage.


To withdraw your funds, click on the “Fund” Tab, then select your desired asset, then choose a network, insert the address and confirm your withdrawal via email.


They are a Canadian based crypto exchange which allows users to trade more than 90 cryptocurrencies at a low cost, while also earning various rewards.


There are several trustworthy options, including Coinbase, Kraken, Gemini, and VirgoCX.

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About the Author

CryptoVantage Staff

CryptoVantage.com is committed to simplifying cryptocurrency for everyday people. Learn more about CryptoVantage.com and our team on the About Us page.

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