What cryptocurrencies are supported as collateral on KuCoin Futures?

KuCoin Futures accepts major cryptos like BTC, ETH, and USDT as collateral, with values converted to USDT for margin calculations, supporting both cross and isolated margin modes.

Aug 11, 2025 at 04:21 am

Overview of KuCoin Futures and Collateral Mechanism

KuCoin Futures is a derivatives trading platform that allows users to trade perpetual and delivery futures contracts using leverage. To open and maintain positions, traders must deposit assets that serve as collateral, also known as margin. The types of cryptocurrencies accepted as collateral are determined by KuCoin based on liquidity, market stability, and risk assessment. These assets are held in the user’s futures wallet and are used to calculate maintenance margin and liquidation thresholds.

The collateral system on KuCoin Futures operates on a cross-margin and isolated margin model. In both models, the value of the deposited cryptocurrency is converted into a quote currency (typically USDT or USD) to determine the margin balance. This means that even if you deposit a non-stablecoin asset, its value is assessed in terms of USDT for margin calculations. The platform supports a select list of high-liquidity digital assets that are deemed suitable for this purpose.

Primary Cryptocurrencies Accepted as Collateral

KuCoin Futures supports a variety of major cryptocurrencies as collateral. The most widely accepted ones include:

• BTC (Bitcoin)
• ETH (Ethereum)
• USDT (Tether)
• USDC (USD Coin)
• BNB (Binance Coin)
• SOL (Solana)
• XRP (Ripple)
• ADA (Cardano)
• DOGE (Dogecoin)
• DOT (Polkadot)

These assets are chosen due to their high market capitalization, consistent trading volume, and relative price stability (especially in the case of stablecoins). USDT and USDC are particularly favored because they maintain a 1:1 peg to the US dollar, simplifying margin calculations and reducing volatility risk. BTC and ETH are accepted due to their dominance in the crypto market and widespread trust among traders.

How to Deposit Collateral on KuCoin Futures

To use any of the supported cryptocurrencies as collateral, users must complete a deposit into their Futures Wallet. This process is straightforward but requires careful attention to network selection and wallet addresses.

• Log in to your KuCoin account and navigate to the Futures section.
• Click on Wallet or Deposit within the Futures interface.
• Select the cryptocurrency you wish to deposit (e.g., BTC, ETH, or USDT).
• Choose the appropriate blockchain network (e.g., ERC20, BEP20, TRC20, or Omni for USDT).
• Copy the unique deposit address provided by KuCoin.
• Initiate the transfer from your external wallet or exchange, ensuring the network matches exactly.
• Wait for the required number of blockchain confirmations before the funds appear in your Futures Wallet.

It is crucial to ensure that the network type matches the deposit address. Sending USDT via ERC20 to a BEP20 address, for example, may result in permanent loss of funds. KuCoin provides warnings and network selection tools to prevent such errors.

Collateral Valuation and Risk Management

Once deposited, the value of your collateral is continuously monitored by the KuCoin Futures system. Each asset is assigned a collateral factor, which determines how much of its value can be used toward margin. For example:

• USDT and USDC typically have a 100% collateral factor.
• BTC and ETH may have a 90–95% collateral factor due to volatility.
• Altcoins like DOGE or ADA might have lower collateral factors, such as 70–80%.

This means that 1 BTC worth $60,000 might only count as $57,000 toward your margin if the collateral factor is 95%. The system uses these adjustments to manage liquidation risk during price swings. If the value of your collateral drops below the maintenance margin level, you may receive a margin call or face automatic liquidation.

KuCoin also applies haircuts to more volatile assets to further mitigate risk. These haircuts are not user-adjustable and are part of the platform’s internal risk engine.

Switching Between Collateral Assets

Users are allowed to hold multiple cryptocurrencies in their Futures Wallet simultaneously. The system automatically aggregates the total collateral value in USDT equivalent. You do not need to manually convert assets before depositing.

• The platform uses real-time market prices to value each asset.
• You can maintain a diversified collateral portfolio (e.g., 50% BTC, 30% ETH, 20% USDT).
• No conversion is required; the system handles valuation in the background.
• If one asset drops in value, others can help offset the decline and prevent liquidation.

However, if you wish to change your collateral composition, you must manually withdraw and redeposit assets, or transfer between wallets. Internal conversions within the Futures Wallet are not supported. Always ensure sufficient balance in the desired asset before opening a leveraged position.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use SHIB as collateral on KuCoin Futures?

As of the latest update, SHIB (Shiba Inu) is not supported as collateral on KuCoin Futures. While SHIB is listed for spot trading, it does not meet the platform’s criteria for futures margin due to its high volatility and lower liquidity compared to major assets. Users must rely on approved assets like BTC, ETH, or USDT.

What happens if my collateral asset is delisted?

If a cryptocurrency used as collateral is delisted from KuCoin, the platform typically provides a grace period. During this time, you can withdraw the asset or close positions using it. After the grace period, the asset may no longer be accepted as collateral, and its value might be excluded from margin calculations. It is essential to monitor official announcements for updates.

Is there a minimum amount required to use a cryptocurrency as collateral?

Yes, KuCoin enforces minimum deposit thresholds for each asset. For example, the minimum BTC deposit might be 0.001 BTC, while USDT could require 10 USDT. These thresholds vary by asset and network. Deposits below the minimum will not be credited to your Futures Wallet.

Can I earn interest on collateral held in my Futures Wallet?

No, assets deposited in the Futures Wallet do not earn interest. Unlike the Spot Wallet, which may offer staking or savings products, the Futures Wallet is designed solely for margin support. Any idle collateral remains non-productive until used in a trade or withdrawn back to the Spot Wallet.