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Nexo is a regulated crypto lending platform with $11+ billion in assets under management, offering up to 14% APY on stablecoins and crypto-backed loans at 50% LTV with interest rates starting from 2.9% APR. YouHodler is a Swiss-based FinTech platform offering up to 15% APY on stablecoins, industry-leading 90% LTV crypto loans, and leveraged trading tools like Multi HODL. In this Nexo vs YouHodler comparison for February 2026, we analyze earn rates, loan terms, fees, security, regulatory status, and recent developments to help you choose the right platform for your crypto strategy.
Quick verdict: Choose Nexo if you prioritize regulatory compliance, proven track record, and a crypto debit card. Choose YouHodler if you want higher LTV loans (90% vs 50%), leveraged trading tools, and no native token requirement. Be aware that YouHodler has faced significant user complaints about withdrawal delays and KYC procedures in recent months.
| Feature | Nexo | YouHodler |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 2018 | 2018 |
| Headquarters | London, UK / Zug, Switzerland | Lausanne, Switzerland |
| Assets Under Management | $11+ billion | Not publicly disclosed |
| Best Stablecoin APY | Up to 14% (fixed-term) | Up to 15% |
| BTC Earn Rate | Up to 7% (fixed-term) | Up to 12% |
| ETH Earn Rate | Up to 8% (fixed-term) | Up to 12% |
| Max Loan LTV | 50% | 90% |
| Loan Interest Rate | From 2.9% APR | From 11% APR |
| Supported Assets | 100+ | 50+ |
| Crypto Card | Yes (Mastercard) | No |
| Leveraged Trading | Booster (up to 3x) | Multi HODL (up to 50x) |
| Insurance | $150M+ (BitGo, Fireblocks) | $150M pooled (Ledger Vault) |
| Native Token Required | Yes (NEXO for best rates) | No |
| Trustpilot Rating | 4.4/5 "Excellent" | 3.8/5 "Great" |
Nexo vs YouHodler: Earn Rates Compared (2026)
Earn rates are the primary factor most users consider when choosing between Nexo and YouHodler. Both platforms pay interest on deposited crypto assets, but their rate structures and requirements differ significantly as of February 2026.
Nexo offers two savings options: Flexible Savings (no lock-up, withdraw anytime) and Fixed-term Savings (1, 3, or 12-month lock periods for higher rates). Your actual rate depends on your Loyalty Tier, which is determined by the percentage of NEXO tokens in your portfolio. Platinum tier (the highest rates) requires holding at least 10% of your portfolio in NEXO tokens, plus a minimum portfolio balance of $5,000. As of November 2025, Nexo implemented a $500 minimum earning balance per asset, meaning you must hold at least $500 worth of each crypto to earn interest on it.
YouHodler uses a loyalty system tied to trading volume rather than token holdings. Rates range from 5% to 15% APY on stablecoins depending on your loyalty level. Unlike Nexo, YouHodler does not require you to purchase a native token to unlock higher rates. Interest is paid weekly (versus daily on Nexo), and there are yield limits based on your account tier that can cap earnings for passive users.
| Asset | Nexo Flexible | Nexo Fixed-Term | YouHodler |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDT | 10% | 14% | Up to 15% |
| USDC | 9% | 13% | Up to 15% |
| DAI | 9% | 13% | Up to 12% |
| BTC | 3.5% | 7% | Up to 12% |
| ETH | 4.5% | 8% | Up to 12% |
| SOL | 5% | 8% | Up to 12% |
| XRP | 5% | 12% | Up to 12% |
| Payout Frequency | Daily | Weekly | |
| Minimum Earning Balance | $500 per asset | $100 | |
Winner - Earn Rates: YouHodler. YouHodler offers higher headline rates across most assets, especially on BTC (up to 12% vs 7%) and stablecoins (up to 15% vs 14%). However, YouHodler's higher rates come with caveats: yield limits for passive users, loyalty tier requirements based on trading activity, and recent concerns about withdrawal difficulties. Nexo's rates are more predictable and accessible once you meet the token holding requirement.
Crypto-Backed Loans: LTV, Terms, and Fees
Both Nexo and YouHodler offer crypto-backed loans that allow you to borrow against your holdings without selling. The loan-to-value (LTV) ratio, interest rates, and repayment terms differ substantially between platforms.
Nexo provides an instant credit line model rather than fixed-term loans. You can borrow from $50 up to $2 million instantly (up to $200 million for private clients with over $100,000 in assets). The maximum LTV is 50% for Bitcoin, with lower LTVs for altcoins. Interest rates start at 2.9% APR for Platinum-tier users, with no fixed repayment schedule. You repay at your own pace, and the credit line remains open indefinitely once approved. Over 100 assets can serve as collateral, and you can combine multiple assets.
YouHodler differentiates itself with an industry-leading 90% LTV ratio. This means you can borrow up to 90% of your collateral's value, significantly more than Nexo's 50%. Minimum loan is $100, with loans available in USD, EUR, CHF, GBP, BTC, and stablecoins. YouHodler's loan fees are structured differently, ranging from approximately 11% APR and up depending on the asset and LTV chosen. Loan terms are fixed (1 to 364 days), unlike Nexo's open-ended credit line.
| Loan Feature | Nexo | YouHodler |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum LTV | 50% | 90% |
| Min Loan Amount | $50 | $100 |
| Max Loan Amount | $2M ($200M for private clients) | Not publicly specified |
| Interest Rate | From 2.9% APR | From 11% APR |
| Loan Structure | Open credit line (no fixed term) | Fixed term (1-364 days) |
| Repayment Schedule | Flexible (repay anytime) | Fixed deadline |
| Collateral Assets | 100+ | 50+ |
| Loan Currencies | 40+ fiat, stablecoins, crypto | USD, EUR, CHF, GBP, BTC, stablecoins |
| Credit Check | None | None |
Winner - Loans: It depends on your needs. YouHodler wins on LTV (90% vs 50%), giving you nearly double the borrowing power per dollar of collateral. This makes it ideal for short-term liquidity needs or aggressive leverage strategies. Nexo wins on cost and flexibility, with interest rates starting at 2.9% APR (versus 11%+), flexible repayment, higher maximums, and an open credit line structure. For larger, long-term borrowing at the lowest cost, Nexo is superior. For maximum short-term borrowing power, YouHodler leads.
Security, Insurance, and Custody
Security is critical when choosing a crypto lending platform. Both Nexo and YouHodler use institutional-grade custody solutions, but their approaches and track records differ.
Nexo stores assets with multiple qualified custodians including BitGo, Fireblocks, and Ledger Vault. The platform carries $150 million+ in insurance against theft and cybersecurity breaches. Nexo has completed a SOC 2 Type 2 audit, an independent verification of security controls, and uses 256-bit encryption, biometric authentication, and real-time monitoring. With $371+ billion in transactions processed, $30 billion in cumulative stablecoin inflows, over 7 million users, and $1.2+ billion in interest paid, Nexo has one of the longest operational track records in crypto lending. As of Galaxy Research's Q2 and Q3 2025 report, Nexo ranked #2 among CeFi lenders by total loan volume.
YouHodler uses Ledger Vault for institutional custody, which provides $150 million pooled crime insurance through Arch UK Lloyds of London syndicate. The platform implements 2FA, encryption, and regular security audits. YouHodler is a member of the Blockchain Association of the Financial Commission, which provides an independent dispute resolution mechanism. The platform experienced a data breach in 2019 that exposed user data, though no funds were lost according to CEO Ilya Volkov. No successful hacks resulting in loss of customer funds have been publicly reported.
Winner - Security: Nexo. Nexo's multi-custodian approach, SOC 2 Type 2 certification, larger AUM ($11B+), and longer unblemished operational record give it a clear security advantage. Both platforms offer similar insurance coverage, but Nexo's diversified custody (BitGo + Fireblocks + Ledger Vault) provides more redundancy than YouHodler's single-custodian model.
Regulatory Status and Compliance (2026 Update)
Regulatory compliance is increasingly important in crypto lending, especially as authorities worldwide tighten oversight of centralized platforms.
Nexo operates in 150+ jurisdictions and holds multiple regulatory licenses globally. In the United States, Nexo Financial LLC (a US-based affiliate) holds a California Financing Law License. In Australia, Nexo Services is registered with ASIC. Nexo also holds a Hong Kong TCSP licence and complies with EU regulations. However, Nexo has faced regulatory scrutiny: in January 2026, California's DFPI fined Nexo Capital Inc. $500,000 for making loans to 5,456 California residents between 2018-2022 without proper underwriting procedures. As part of the settlement, Nexo must transfer all California customer accounts to the licensed Nexo Financial LLC entity within 150 days. This follows a 2022 multistate settlement of $22.5 million related to Nexo's crypto interest-earning program.
YouHodler is headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland, and operates under Swiss and EU regulatory frameworks. The company holds a cryptocurrency provider license in Italy and operates as a Financial Intermediary in Switzerland. YouHodler is an active member of the Blockchain Association of the Financial Commission and the Crypto Valley Association. While YouHodler maintains strong compliance within its operational regions, its regulatory footprint is narrower than Nexo's global presence. YouHodler is not available to US residents, China, Germany, or several other restricted countries.
Winner - Regulation: Nexo. Despite the January 2026 California fine, Nexo's multi-jurisdictional licensing, presence in 150+ countries, and proactive approach to compliance gives it a regulatory advantage. The California action specifically addressed historical practices from 2018-2022, and Nexo has a licensed US entity to serve American customers going forward. YouHodler's EU/Swiss regulation is solid but more geographically limited.
Platform Features and Trading Tools
Beyond earn and loan products, both platforms offer additional features that may influence your choice depending on your investment style.
Nexo Key Features (2026)
- Nexo Card: A crypto-backed Mastercard with dual credit/debit mode. Spend without selling your crypto (credit mode) or use your balance directly (debit mode). Earn up to 2% crypto cashback on purchases. Available at 100+ million merchants worldwide with up to 2,000 EUR/1,800 GBP in free ATM withdrawals monthly.
- Nexo Booster: Use holdings as collateral to acquire up to 3x more crypto. The purchase is financed through a Credit Line you can repay anytime.
- Wealth Vaults: Lock Bitcoin for up to 20 years with fixed long-term rates. Access funds early if needed.
- Exchange: Buy, sell, and swap 100+ cryptocurrencies with Smart Routing for best prices. Up to 0.5% crypto cashback on swaps for Platinum members.
- Crypto Baskets: Diversified portfolio bundles including Essentials (BTC, ETH, XRP, SOL, NEXO), DeFi, and Memecoins.
- NEXO Token: Native token providing loyalty benefits including higher earn rates, lower borrowing costs, free withdrawals, and cashback. Platinum tier requires 10%+ portfolio in NEXO.
- Private Client Services: Bespoke solutions for portfolios over $100,000, including 0% interest credit lines, up to $200 million borrowing, and dedicated relationship managers.
- Tax Reporting: Automated crypto tax reporting via Koinly integration.
YouHodler Key Features (2026)
- Multi HODL: Leveraged trading tool with up to 50x leverage. Capitalize on market volatility with customizable risk settings. Set maximum loss limits and take profit targets. Intended as a higher-risk complement to savings accounts.
- Turbocharge: A cascade-of-loans tool that can clone your crypto collateral up to 6.5x at 90% LTV. Designed for users who strongly believe in price appreciation of their assets.
- Universal Exchange: Convert between crypto, fiat, and stablecoins at competitive rates.
- Fiat On/Off Ramp: Direct bank wire withdrawals and credit card purchases for crypto.
- No Native Token Required: All features and loyalty tiers accessible without purchasing a proprietary token. Loyalty levels based on trading volume instead.
- Loan Management Tools: Features like Increase LTV, Close Now, Take Profit, and Adjust PDL (Price Down Limit) for flexible loan management.
Winner - Features: Tie (depends on user type). Nexo wins for passive investors with its crypto card, Wealth Vaults, comprehensive token ecosystem, and private client services. YouHodler wins for active traders with Multi HODL (50x leverage vs Nexo's 3x Booster) and Turbocharge tools. If you want a "crypto bank" experience with a card and long-term savings, choose Nexo. If you want aggressive trading tools and maximum leverage, choose YouHodler.
User Experience, Withdrawals, and Support
User experience and withdrawal reliability are critical factors that directly impact your ability to access your funds.
Nexo is consistently praised for its clean, intuitive interface on both web and mobile (iOS, Android, Huawei). The platform is beginner-friendly with straightforward onboarding and standard KYC verification. Nexo provides 24/7 personalized client care. On Trustpilot, Nexo holds a 4.4/5 "Excellent" rating with generally positive reviews highlighting reliable access to funds and responsive support. Some users report occasional issues, but the platform has a strong track record of resolving disputes.
YouHodler also offers 24/7 customer support with a reputation for community engagement. However, recent user reports raise significant concerns. On Trustpilot, YouHodler holds a 3.8/5 "Great" rating, but numerous 2025-2026 reviews describe difficulties withdrawing funds due to complex AML/KYC procedures. One detailed experience from mid-2025 documented a 13-day, 27-email process to complete re-verification and withdraw funds. Users report being asked for extensive documentation including bank account details, proof of funds, and proof of residency. Multiple recent reviews claim funds were blocked without clear explanation. YouHodler's interface is slightly more complex due to its trading tools but remains accessible for intermediate users.
Winner - User Experience: Nexo. Nexo's cleaner interface, higher Trustpilot rating (4.4 vs 3.8), and significantly fewer withdrawal complaints make it the safer choice for users who prioritize reliable fund access. YouHodler's withdrawal issues documented in recent months represent a material risk that passive users should carefully consider.
Who Should Choose Nexo?
Nexo is the better choice if you:
- Prioritize regulatory compliance and institutional-grade security
- Want a crypto debit card for everyday spending without selling your assets
- Prefer lower-risk, conservative lending with a 7+ year track record
- Need loans with flexible repayment schedules and low interest rates (from 2.9% APR)
- Hold a diversified portfolio and want support for 100+ assets
- Want private client services for portfolios over $100,000
- Are comfortable holding NEXO tokens to unlock the best rates
- Value reliable withdrawal access and higher-rated customer support
Who Should Choose YouHodler?
YouHodler is the better choice if you:
- Need maximum borrowing power with 90% LTV crypto loans
- Want leveraged trading tools like Multi HODL (up to 50x)
- Prefer a platform with no native token requirement for best rates
- Are an active trader who will benefit from volume-based loyalty tiers
- Are comfortable with higher risk for potentially higher rewards
- Want a Swiss-based platform with EU/Swiss regulation
- Understand and accept the potential for extended KYC/withdrawal processes
Alternatives to Consider
If neither Nexo nor YouHodler fully meets your needs, consider these top crypto lending alternatives:
- Ledn - Transparent Bitcoin-focused lending with proof-of-reserves attestations
- Crypto.com - Wide asset selection with DeFi integration and Visa card
- CoinLoan - EU-regulated lending with competitive rates
You can compare live earn rates across all platforms on Bitcompare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Nexo or YouHodler?
Nexo is better for security-conscious investors who want regulatory compliance, a crypto card, reliable withdrawals, and conservative lending with rates starting at 2.9% APR. YouHodler is better for users seeking higher LTV loans (90% vs 50%) and aggressive trading tools like Multi HODL (50x leverage). However, YouHodler has faced significant user complaints about withdrawal delays in 2025-2026, which should factor into your decision.
Is Nexo safer than YouHodler?
Yes, Nexo generally offers stronger security credentials. Nexo manages $11+ billion in assets, has completed a SOC 2 Type 2 audit, uses multiple custodians (BitGo, Fireblocks, Ledger Vault), and holds $150M+ in insurance. Nexo's Trustpilot rating is 4.4/5 versus YouHodler's 3.8/5. YouHodler uses Ledger Vault custody and is Swiss-regulated, but has a smaller scale, experienced a 2019 data breach, and has faced withdrawal complaints.
Which has higher interest rates, Nexo or YouHodler?
YouHodler offers higher headline rates on most assets. YouHodler pays up to 15% APY on stablecoins and 12% on BTC, while Nexo offers up to 14% on stablecoins and 7% on BTC (with fixed-term lock-ups). However, YouHodler's rates are subject to yield limits based on loyalty tier, and achieving maximum rates requires active trading volume. Nexo's rates require holding NEXO tokens.
What is the maximum loan-to-value ratio on Nexo and YouHodler?
YouHodler offers up to 90% LTV on crypto-backed loans, one of the highest in the industry. Nexo's maximum LTV is 50% for Bitcoin, with lower ratios for altcoins. Higher LTV means more borrowing power per dollar of collateral but also higher liquidation risk if prices drop. YouHodler's 90% LTV is nearly double Nexo's, but Nexo's lower LTV reflects a more conservative, sustainable approach.
Does Nexo or YouHodler require a native token?
Nexo has the NEXO token, which is required to unlock the best rates through its loyalty tier system. Platinum tier (highest rates and benefits) requires at least 10% of your portfolio in NEXO tokens plus a $5,000 minimum balance. YouHodler does not have a native token. Its loyalty levels are based on trading volume instead, which disadvantages passive users who prefer to hold without frequent trading.
Can I use Nexo and YouHodler in the United States?
Nexo has limited availability in certain US states through its licensed affiliate, Nexo Financial LLC, which holds a California Financing Law License. Earn products may have restrictions depending on your state. YouHodler does not currently serve US residents. Always verify the latest platform terms for your specific jurisdiction before depositing funds.
Are there withdrawal issues with Nexo or YouHodler?
Recent user reports indicate YouHodler has significant withdrawal challenges. Multiple 2025-2026 Trustpilot reviews describe blocked withdrawals, extended KYC re-verification requirements, and wait times of 1-2+ weeks. One documented case required 13 days and 27 emails to complete withdrawal. Nexo has fewer withdrawal complaints and a higher Trustpilot rating (4.4 vs 3.8), though occasional issues are reported with any platform.
Are Nexo and YouHodler regulated?
Yes, both platforms are regulated. Nexo operates in 150+ jurisdictions with licenses in California (via Nexo Financial LLC), Australia (ASIC), Hong Kong (TCSP), and the EU. In January 2026, Nexo Capital Inc. paid a $500,000 fine to California's DFPI for historical lending practices (2018-2022). YouHodler is based in Switzerland, holds an Italian crypto license, and operates under EU/Swiss frameworks as a member of the Blockchain Association of the Financial Commission.
Final Verdict: Nexo vs YouHodler (February 2026)
Both Nexo and YouHodler are legitimate crypto lending platforms, but they serve distinctly different user profiles and carry different risk levels.
Nexo is the platform for investors who prioritize security, regulation, and a polished ecosystem. With $11+ billion in AUM, $150M+ insurance, multi-jurisdictional licensing, SOC 2 Type 2 certification, and a crypto Mastercard, Nexo is the safer, more institutional option. Its earn rates are competitive (up to 14% on stablecoins with fixed terms), and its credit lines offer flexible repayment at industry-low interest rates starting from 2.9% APR. The main drawback is the NEXO token requirement for best rates.
YouHodler is the platform for yield-seekers and active traders willing to accept more risk. With 90% LTV loans (vs Nexo's 50%), Multi HODL leveraged trading (up to 50x), and no native token requirement, YouHodler offers more aggressive options. Its Swiss regulation provides a solid foundation. However, significant withdrawal complaints documented in 2025-2026, lower Trustpilot ratings (3.8 vs 4.4), and loyalty tiers that disadvantage passive users represent material concerns for many investors.
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Earn Rates | YouHodler |
| Loan LTV | YouHodler |
| Loan Interest Rates | Nexo |
| Security and Insurance | Nexo |
| Regulation | Nexo |
| Leveraged Trading Tools | YouHodler |
| Crypto Card | Nexo |
| User Experience | Nexo |
| Withdrawal Reliability | Nexo |
| No Token Required | YouHodler |
Our recommendation: For most users, we recommend Nexo for its stronger security, regulatory profile, reliable withdrawals, and comprehensive platform features including the crypto card. Consider YouHodler only if you specifically need 90% LTV loans or Multi HODL trading tools, and you're comfortable with the potential for extended withdrawal processes. You can compare live rates on both platforms using Bitcompare's real-time rate tracker.
