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Custodial vs Self-Custody

What is Custodial?

When you keep your crypto on an exchange like Coinbase or Binance, you don't actually own the private keys. The exchange controls your bitcoin. This is called custodial storage.

Problems with Custodial

  • • The exchange can freeze your account at any time
  • • If the exchange gets hacked, your bitcoin is gone
  • • The exchange can go bankrupt (like FTX did)
  • • You need permission to move your own money
  • • KYC requirements expose your personal data

What is Self-Custody?

Self-custody means you hold your own private keys. No one else can access or move your bitcoin without your permission. This is how Bitcoin was designed to work.

Benefits of Self-Custody

  • • You are the only one who can access your bitcoin
  • • No one can freeze or seize your funds
  • • No KYC or personal information required
  • • Works anywhere in the world
  • • Full control over your financial future

Why Savel?

Self-custody is powerful but risky. If you lose your key, your bitcoin is gone forever. Savel adds a safety net to self-custody with a 2-of-3 multisig setup — you keep control, but have a backup if something goes wrong.