How to trade Ethereum Classic on BitMEX? Simple tutorial

Trading ETC on BitMEX involves setting up an account, depositing BTC, and using up to 50x leverage on ETC/USD perpetual contracts for potential high rewards and risks.

Apr 12, 2025 at 07:00 pm

Trading Ethereum Classic (ETC) on BitMEX can be a rewarding experience for those interested in cryptocurrency futures. BitMEX is a popular platform known for its advanced trading features and high leverage options. To start trading ETC on BitMEX, you'll need to follow a few simple steps. This tutorial will guide you through the process of setting up an account, depositing funds, and executing trades on ETC futures contracts. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced trader, understanding these steps will help you navigate BitMEX effectively and take advantage of the opportunities in the Ethereum Classic market.

Setting Up a BitMEX Account

To begin trading Ethereum Classic on BitMEX, the first step is to set up an account. Visit the BitMEX website and click on the "Register" button. You'll need to provide an email address and create a strong password. After registering, you'll receive a confirmation email. Click on the link in the email to verify your account. Once your account is verified, log in to BitMEX. For added security, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) by going to the "Security" section of your account settings and following the prompts to set up 2FA using an authenticator app.

Depositing Funds into Your BitMEX Account

After setting up your account, the next step is to deposit funds. BitMEX only accepts deposits in Bitcoin (BTC). To deposit, go to the "Account" section and click on "Deposit." You'll see a Bitcoin address where you can send your funds. Copy this address and use it to send Bitcoin from your wallet to your BitMEX account. The minimum deposit amount is 0.001 BTC. Once your deposit is confirmed on the blockchain, the funds will be available in your BitMEX account. You can then use these funds to trade Ethereum Classic futures.

Understanding Ethereum Classic Futures on BitMEX

Before you start trading, it's important to understand how Ethereum Classic futures work on BitMEX. ETC futures are contracts that allow you to speculate on the future price of Ethereum Classic. BitMEX offers perpetual contracts, which means they do not have an expiration date. The contract size for ETC/USD is 1 ETC, and the minimum trade size is 1 contract. The leverage available for ETC futures can be up to 50x, which means you can control a larger position with a smaller amount of capital. However, higher leverage also increases the risk of liquidation.

Placing an Ethereum Classic Futures Trade

To place an ETC futures trade on BitMEX, navigate to the "Trade" section and select the ETC/USD perpetual contract. You'll see a trading interface where you can enter your trade details. Here's how to place a trade:

• Choose your order type: You can choose between a "Market" order, which executes immediately at the current market price, or a "Limit" order, which executes at a specified price.
• Enter the quantity: Specify the number of contracts you want to trade.
• Set the leverage: Adjust the leverage to your desired level, keeping in mind the risks associated with higher leverage.
• Submit the order: Click on "Buy" if you think the price of ETC will rise, or "Sell" if you think it will fall.

Once your order is filled, you'll see your position in the "Positions" section of your account.

Managing Your Ethereum Classic Futures Position

After entering a trade, it's crucial to manage your position effectively. BitMEX provides several tools to help you do this. You can set stop-loss and take-profit orders to automatically close your position at specified price levels. To set these orders, go to the "Positions" section, select your ETC/USD position, and enter the desired stop-loss and take-profit prices. You can also monitor your position's performance using the "Profit/Loss" and "Liquidation Price" indicators. If the market moves against your position, you may need to add more margin to avoid liquidation. You can do this by going to the "Margin" section and depositing additional funds.

Closing Your Ethereum Classic Futures Position

When you're ready to close your ETC futures position, you can do so by placing an opposite order. If you're long (bought) ETC, you'll need to sell the same number of contracts to close your position. If you're short (sold) ETC, you'll need to buy the same number of contracts. To close your position, go to the "Trade" section, select the ETC/USD perpetual contract, and enter the quantity of contracts you want to close. Choose the "Market" order type to close your position immediately at the current market price, or use a "Limit" order to close at a specified price. Once your order is filled, your position will be closed, and any profits or losses will be reflected in your account balance.

Withdrawing Funds from BitMEX

After closing your ETC futures position, you may want to withdraw your funds from BitMEX. To do this, go to the "Account" section and click on "Withdraw." Enter the amount of Bitcoin you want to withdraw and the Bitcoin address where you want to send the funds. BitMEX may require additional verification steps for withdrawals, so be prepared to provide any necessary information. Once your withdrawal request is processed, the funds will be sent to your specified Bitcoin address. Keep in mind that BitMEX charges a withdrawal fee, which is deducted from the amount you withdraw.

Common Questions About Trading Ethereum Classic on BitMEX

Q: What is the minimum amount required to start trading ETC on BitMEX?

A: The minimum deposit amount on BitMEX is 0.001 BTC. However, the minimum trade size for ETC/USD futures is 1 contract, which represents 1 ETC. The amount of Bitcoin required to trade 1 ETC will depend on the current ETC/BTC exchange rate and the leverage you choose.

Q: Can I trade ETC on BitMEX with leverage?

A: Yes, BitMEX offers leverage of up to 50x for ETC/USD perpetual contracts. This means you can control a larger position with a smaller amount of capital, but it also increases the risk of liquidation.

Q: How do I set a stop-loss order on BitMEX for ETC futures?

A: To set a stop-loss order, go to the "Positions" section, select your ETC/USD position, and enter the desired stop-loss price. This will automatically close your position if the market reaches that price level.

Q: What happens if my ETC futures position gets liquidated on BitMEX?

A: If your position is liquidated, BitMEX will close your position at the current market price to prevent further losses. Any remaining funds in your account after liquidation will be available for withdrawal, but you may incur a loss if the liquidation price is unfavorable.

Q: How long does it take to withdraw funds from BitMEX?

A: Withdrawal processing times can vary, but BitMEX typically processes withdrawals within 24 hours. Once processed, the time it takes for the funds to reach your Bitcoin address depends on the Bitcoin network's congestion and transaction fees.

Q: Can I trade ETC futures on BitMEX 24/7?

A: Yes, BitMEX operates 24/7, allowing you to trade ETC futures at any time. However, be aware that market liquidity and volatility can vary depending on the time of day and market conditions.

Q: What fees are associated with trading ETC on BitMEX?

A: BitMEX charges a taker fee of 0.075% and a maker fee of -0.025% for ETC/USD perpetual contracts. There is also a funding fee that is exchanged between long and short positions every 8 hours to keep the contract price in line with the spot market.