A common question among crypto traders is:
"Why don’t buying and selling prices match the listed prices on exchange platforms?"
This guide explains the concept of price differences (or spreads) in cryptocurrency markets, helping you trade with confidence.
How Cryptocurrency Prices Are Determined
Unlike traditional currencies, crypto prices aren’t set by governments or exchanges. Instead, they are influenced by:
- Buyers and sellers on the open market
- Global order books updating constantly
- Supply and demand dynamics
Key Pricing Concepts:
- Buy Price: Reflects demand (how many people want to purchase a crypto).
- Sell Price: Reflects supply (how many are willing to sell).
- Spread: The gap between buy and sell prices.
💡 The prices you see on charts are usually averages of buy/sell prices, not real-time transaction values.
Why Exchanges Display Average Prices
Platforms like Kriptomat show average prices on pages such as:
- Homepage
- Wallets
- Portfolio
- Gainers & Losers
This is because they don’t know whether you’re buying or selling—averages provide a neutral reference.
👉 Discover how spreads impact your trades
How to Check Real-Time Prices
To see actual prices:
- For buying: Open a Buy transaction window.
- For selling: Open a Sell transaction window.
⚠️ Prices update minute-by-minute as global order books change.
Practical Trading Tips
Focus on Crypto Value, Not Just Price
- Verify received amounts in your Wallets (e.g., 0.0095 BTC should equal 0.0095 BTC post-transaction).
- Use limit orders to control buy/sell prices.
Why Spreads Exist
- Market volatility
- Exchange liquidity
- Trading volume
FAQ
Q: Why is the buy price higher than the sell price?
A: This reflects market demand (more buyers = higher buy prices) and supply (more sellers = lower sell prices).
Q: Can I get the exact price shown on charts?
A: No—charts display averages. Real prices appear when you initiate a trade.
Q: How do I minimize price differences?
A: Trade during high-liquidity periods or use limit orders.
Final Thoughts
Understanding spreads empowers you to make informed trades. Always:
- Double-check transaction windows.
- Monitor wallet balances.
- Stay updated on market trends.
👉 Master crypto trading strategies
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