Binance Review 2024: Still the Best Crypto Exchange - Is it Safe? - Blockonomi

Since launching in 2017, Binance has quickly become the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, offering traders access to hundreds of digital assets. Its meteoric rise has been fueled by consistent innovation, user-friendly interfaces, and some of the lowest fees in the crypto space.

In our comprehensive Binance review, we'll provide an unbiased look at the platform's key features, strengths and weaknesses. We'll examine everything from signing up and trading on Binance to its security measures and customer support. Beyond just the exchange itself, we'll also dive into the wider Binance ecosystem including the BNB token, Binance Chain, Binance DEX, and the many other products offered.

Our goal is to provide the most thorough and detailed Binance review available, enabling readers to make an informed decision about whether Binance is the right cryptocurrency exchange for their needs. We aim to highlight both the advantages and disadvantages of trading on Binance compared to other top crypto exchanges.

By the end of this review, readers will have a clear understanding of Binance's fees, supported assets, trading platforms, security, regulation status, and overall reputation. Whether a beginner looking to buy their first crypto or an advanced trader exploring derivatives, our review covers everything you need to know to decide if Binance is the right fit. Let's begin our comprehensive look at the world's top cryptocurrency exchange.

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Quick Verdict: As the world's largest crypto exchange offering low fees, deep liquidity, and an unparalleled range of innovative crypto products, Binance stands as the leading one-stop platform for beginners to pro traders.


Quick Facts

Table of Contents

Category Information
Launch Date September 2017
Headquarters Cayman Islands
Founders Changpeng Zhao, Yi He
Trading Volume $76 billion daily average (Q3 2022)
Supported Assets Over 600 cryptocurrencies
Trading Fees 0.1% – 0.02% based on 30-day volume
Security Address whitelisting, 2FA, Cold storage
Funding Credit/debit card, Bank transfer, P2P
Products Spot, Futures, Margin, Launchpad, Lending, Staking, NFTs, DeFi, Wallet
Countries Served 180+ countries, restricted in US/UK
Mobile Apps iOS, Android
Website binance.com

How to Signup

Registering an account on Binance is a straightforward process that only takes a couple of minutes. To get started, visit the Binance website and click "Register" in the top right corner.

You'll be prompted to enter your email address and create a secure password. Binance requires a strong password for account security, so be sure to use an alphanumeric combination of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols.

After creating your password, agree to Binance's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. You'll then receive a confirmation email to verify your address. Click the link in the email to complete the verification process.

Binance Signup
Binance Signup

With your email verified, it's time to set up two-factor authentication (2FA). 2FA adds an extra layer of security to your account by requiring both your password and a secondary one-time code to login. On Binance, you can enable 2FA through Google Authenticator or SMS. We highly recommend using Google Authenticator for the best security.

The final step is to complete Binance's know-your-customer (KYC) verification by uploading a government-issued ID and proof of address. This identity verification is required to unlock full account features and higher trading limits.

Once your documentation is reviewed and approved by Binance, your account will be fully activated. You can now deposit funds and start trading! The entire sign-up process usually only takes about 5-10 minutes.


Trading Fees

One of the biggest advantages of using Binance is its competitive trading fees. The exchange uses a maker-taker fee structure where fees are based on your 30-day trading volume and whether you are adding or removing liquidity.

For spot trading, the standard maker fee is 0.1% and the taker fee is 0.1%. However, users with higher 30-day trading volumes can qualify for reduced fees down to 0%.

If you hold Binance Coin (BNB) in your account, you can get an additional 25% discount on trading fees. This offers a major incentive to use BNB.

Here's a breakdown of the spot trading fee tiers:

Trading Fees Maker Fee Taker Fee
Spot Trading
Level 1: <50 BTC 0.1% 0.1%
Level 2: 50-100 BTC 0.09% 0.1%
Level 3: 100-500 BTC 0.08% 0.1%
Level 4: 500-1000 BTC 0.07% 0.1%
Level 5: 1000-3000 BTC 0.06% 0.1%
Level 6: 3000-6000 BTC 0.05% 0.1%
Level 7: 6000-12000 BTC 0.04% 0.1%
Level 8: >12000 BTC 0% 0.09%
Derivatives Trading
Binance Futures 0.02% 0.04%
Deposit Fees None
Withdrawal Fees Vary by asset

For derivatives trading on Binance Futures, the fees are slightly higher but still very competitive. The maker fee is 0.02% and the taker fee is 0.04%.

There are no fees at all for depositing crypto onto Binance. Withdrawal fees vary depending on the digital asset being withdrawn. Overall, the trading fees on Binance are among the lowest in the industry.


Deposits & Withdrawals

Depositing Cryptocurrency

To start trading on Binance, you'll first need to deposit some cryptocurrency. This is easy to do by following these steps:

  1. Log into your Binance account and click "Wallet" then "Spot Wallet."
  2. Search for the cryptocurrency you want to deposit and click "Deposit."
  3. You will see the wallet address for that asset. Copy the address provided.
  4. Go to the external crypto wallet where you are storing the funds and initiate a withdrawal/send transaction, pasting the Binance deposit address.
  5. Wait for the deposit to be confirmed on the blockchain network. This timing varies by asset.
Deposits
Deposits

Once confirmed, your funds will show in your Binance Spot Wallet balance ready to trade with. There are no deposit fees charged by Binance.

Withdrawing Cryptocurrency

To withdraw funds from Binance, follow these steps:

  1. Go to your Spot Wallet and search for the cryptocurrency you want to withdraw.
  2. Click "Withdraw" and enter the amount to withdraw.
  3. Paste the external crypto wallet address you want to withdraw to.
  4. Click Submit and confirm the withdrawal details.
  5. A withdrawal fee will be shown that varies based on the asset.
  6. You will receive an email once the withdrawal is processed. Expect withdrawal times to vary based on the blockchain.

Fiat Deposits

To deposit fiat currency like USD, EUR, or GBP, go to "Buy Crypto" and select your desired currency and payment method such as bank transfer or card payment. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete your purchase and deposit.

Fiat Withdrawals

To cash out to fiat currency, go to "Sell Crypto" and select your fiat currency and linked bank account. Submit a sell order for the crypto you want to withdraw as fiat and complete any required verification steps. Expect about 1-4 business days for fiat withdrawals to process.


Trading Interface

Binance offers a robust, easy-to-use trading interface available on desktop, mobile, and API. There are two main trading platforms: Spot or Convert

Spot Trading Platform

Spot trading is the core Binance trading screen. It shows real-time candlestick charts and depth charts for the selected trading pair. You can place market, limit, and stop-limit orders directly on the charts. The platform also provides basic drawing tools for charting.

The spot trading platform offers a full suite of order types including:

  • Market Orders
  • Limit Orders
  • Stop-Limit Orders
  • OCO (One Cancels the Other) Orders
  • Post-Only Orders
  • Isolated Margin Orders
Spot Trading
Spot Trading

Binance Convert

This is the easiest way for beginners to easily trade the crypto of their choice without having to visit a trading screen. You simply enter your trade using drop down boxes and choose market or limit to execute the trade.

Binance Convert
Binance Convert

How to Trade

Here's how to make a trade on Binance using the post trading interface.

  1. Log into your Binance account and navigate to the "Exchange" tab. This will bring you to the trading screen.
  2. In the top menu, choose between the Basic, Classic, or Advanced trading platforms. For this example we'll use Classic.
  3. On the right side you'll see a list of trading pairs. Search for the pair you want to trade, like BTC/USDT. Click on the pair to bring up the trading chart.
  4. At the bottom of the screen you'll see options for Market, Limit, and Stop-Limit orders. Choose your desired order type.
  5. For a market order, simply enter the amount of the quote asset you want to buy or sell at current market prices. For example, enter "0.5" to buy 0.5 BTC at market price.
  6. For a limit or stop-limit order, also enter your target price in addition to the order amount.
  7. Double check your order details and then click the "Buy" or "Sell" button to place the order.
  8. You will see your open order displayed on the "Open Orders" tab. Once it is filled, it will move to your "Order History."
  9. You can also check your updated asset balances and equity in your account overview.
Placing Your Trade
Placing Your Trade

That's the basic process! Trading on Binance is very intuitive and user-friendly. With the Classic or Advanced platforms you also get access to advanced order types and charting tools for more advanced trades.


Supported Cryptocurrency

One of Binance's biggest strengths is the sheer number of cryptocurrencies it supports. With over 600 coins and tokens listed, it has one of the largest offerings in the industry.

Some of the major cryptocurrencies available on Binance include:

  • Bitcoin (BTC)
  • Ethereum (ETH)
  • Binance Coin (BNB)
  • Cardano (ADA)
  • Ripple (XRP)
  • Polkadot (DOT)
  • Dogecoin (DOGE)
  • Solana (SOL)
  • Avalanche (AVAX)

In addition to the most popular coins, Binance is known for listing many smaller cap altcoins not readily available on other major exchanges. New cryptocurrencies are often quickly added after their initial coin offering.

Markets Overview
Markets Overview

Binance also supports numerous stablecoins that are pegged to fiat currencies, like:

  • Tether (USDT)
  • USD Coin (USDC)
  • Binance USD (BUSD)
  • DAI

For traders looking for diversity, you really can't beat the selection of digital assets available on Binance. The exchange continually evaluates and lists new cryptocurrencies to give traders access to up and coming projects.

The wide array of options makes it easy to trade all types of major cryptocurrency pairs. Whether you are looking to trade Bitcoin, DeFi tokens, NFT coins, or any other crypto assets, Binance likely has you covered. The exchange strives to offer the largest variety in the industry.


Binance Futures

For traders interested in crypto derivatives, Binance offers an advanced futures and options trading platform. Binance Futures allows up to 125x leverage on derivatives contracts for major cryptocurrencies like BTC, ETH, XRP and more.

Binance Futures
Binance Futures

Some key things to know about Binance Futures:

  • Perpetual and Quarterly/Delivery contracts available. Perpetuals do not expire while quarterlies do expire and can be settled for the underlying asset.
  • Up to 125x leverage available. Use leverage to increase your buying/selling power but be cautious as this also amplifies potential losses.
  • Support for coin-margined and stablecoin-margined contracts. You can choose the collateral you use to trade futures.
  • Liquidation levels if position margin falls below maintenance margin. Understand how liquidations work before trading futures.
  • Trading fee discounts available when paying fees in BNB.
  • No expiry dates or settlement requests needed for perpetual contracts. Just hold position for as long as you want.
  • Numerous advanced order types supported: Limit, Market, Stop Limit, Take Profit, and more.
  • Ability to go both long and short to profit from rising and falling markets.

Binance Futures provides a deep pool of liquidity, minimal slippage on trades, and a robust platform for executing crypto derivative trades. Margin requirements, position sizing, risk management are all important considerations when trading futures.


Binance Leveraged Tokens

In addition to traditional futures contracts, Binance also offers Leveraged Tokens – a special type of derivative product that provides leveraged exposure without the need for collateral or margin requirements.

Each Leveraged Token represents a basket of perpetual futures positions in the underlying asset. For example, BTCUP represents a 3x long position in BTC perpetual futures.

Binance Leveraged Tokens
Binance Leveraged Tokens

Some key points about Binance Leveraged Tokens:

  • Available for major cryptos like BTC, ETH, XRP, BNB, etc.
  • Fixed leverage options from 1x to 5x leverage, both long and short.
  • Traded like normal tokens – no leverage or margins to manage.
  • Leverage level adjusts based on price movements in underlying perpetual contracts.
  • No liquidations or margin calls. However, Impermanent Loss is a risk factor.
  • Easy way to gain leveraged exposure without collateral or liquidation risks.
  • Good for short term trades but can lose value over longer periods.
  • Not suitable for beginner traders. Understand how leverage works.

Binance Leveraged Tokens are an interesting derivative product that offers leveraged exposure without some of the risks and complexities of futures contracts. However, they come with their own unique risks and are best used by experienced traders. Proper due diligence is required.


Binance Earn

Binance offers a wide range of "Earn" products that allow you to grow your crypto holdings through interest-earning activities.

Binance Earn
Binance Earn

Some major Binance Earn products include:

  • Crypto Savings – Earn interest by depositing your tokens into flexible or locked savings accounts. Rates vary based on product term.
  • Staking – Earn staking rewards on supported proof-of-stake coins by staking them on Binance. No need to set up nodes.
  • BNB Vault – Earn automatic yield on your BNB holdings through optimized strategies.
  • Launchpool – Earn new token rewards by staking BNB or other assets in Launchpool.
  • Liquid Swap – Provide liquidity to AMM pools to earn trading fees and boosted yield.
  • Dual Investment – Earn fixed yields on crypto plus benefit from token price appreciation.
  • DeFi Staking – Earn high yields by staking supported tokens into DeFi protocols.

In addition, Binance offers crypto loans, margin trading interest, liquidity incentives, and more ways to put your holdings to work.

The wide range of options makes it easy to find yield based on your risk tolerance, preferred coins, and how long you are willing to lock assets. Binance Earn offers passive income potential for long-term HODLers and active traders alike.

Just be aware of risks like impermanent loss and do your due diligence before investing in any products. Binance Earn lets you maximize returns on your crypto.


Binance Loans

Binance offers a crypto loans service that allows users to collateralize their crypto holdings in exchange for a loan of stablecoins or fiat.

Binance Loans
Binance Loans

Some key things to know about Binance Loans:

  • Flexible loan terms from 7 days up to 90 days.
  • Supports loans in stablecoins like BUSD, USDT, USDC or fiat currencies like USD.
  • Interest rates start around 3% APR. Varies by market conditions.
  • Supported collateral assets include BTC, ETH, BNB, XRP, ADA and about 20 others.
  • Initial Loan-to-Value (LTV) up to 50%. Can unlock higher LTVs over time.
  • No credit checks required. Based on crypto collateral.
  • Loans issued in minutes. Quick access to liquidity.
  • No early repayment fees. Can repay loan anytime.

Binance Loans provide an easy way to unlock the value of your crypto assets without having to sell them. The LTV requirements help protect against market volatility. As with any loan, be sure to factor in interest costs. Loans can provide liquidity but do carry risks if asset values decline.


Binance Coin (BNB)

Binance Coin (BNB) is the native utility token of the Binance ecosystem. It was launched in 2017 through an ICO that raised $15 million.

Some key things to know about BNB:

  • Has a fixed total supply of 200 million BNB, of which over 168 million are currently in circulation.
  • Dual token standard – both BEP-2 and ERC-20 – allowing it to be stored on multiple blockchains.
  • Primarily used to pay for fees on Binance Exchange and Binance Chain. Offers a 25% discount on trading fees when paid in BNB.
  • Can be used to participate in token sales on Binance Launchpad.
  • Supports features like staking, loans, deposits, trading pairs, and more on Binance platforms.
  • Regular token burn events decrease BNB supply over time. Over half of the total supply will eventually be burned.
  • Consistently ranks among the top ten cryptocurrencies by market capitalization, currently over $50 billion.

BNB powers the Binance ecosystem as its native token. Demand is driven by the need to use BNB to access lower trading fees and exclusive features on Binance. The fixed supply and token burns also increase its scarcity over time.


Binance Chain

Binance Chain is a blockchain network developed by Binance to power decentralized exchanges and create an alternative to Ethereum.

BNB Chain
BNB Chain

Some key things about Binance Chain include:

  • Launched in 2019 as a high-performance blockchain tailored for ultra-fast trading.
  • Supports the Binance Decentralized Exchange (DEX) which allows trustless peer-to-peer trading without intermediaries.
  • Provides higher throughput and lower latency than other blockchains like Ethereum.
  • Native BNB token acts as the gas to power transactions on Binance Chain.
  • Supports issuing new tokens, creating smart contracts, sending transactions, and trading digital assets.
  • Uses a Proof of Staked Authority (PoSA) consensus that relies on approved validators.
  • Average transaction fee is only a few cents, much lower than Ethereum gas fees.
  • Over 100 DApps have been built on Binance Chain across gaming, DeFi, NFTs, and other sectors.

Binance Chain provides the speed, scalability, and low fees needed to support decentralized trading on the Binance DEX. It offers an alternative smart contract and DApp platform to Ethereum. However, it uses a more centralized validator model compared to Ethereum.


Binance Launchpad

Binance Launchpad is a platform for launching new cryptocurrencies in initial exchange offerings (IEOs). It provides crypto startups with a way to crowdfund development and gain exposure to Binance's large user base.

Binance Launchpad
Binance Launchpad

Some key things to know about Launchpad:

  • Projects must submit detailed proposals and undergo due diligence reviews to launch on Launchpad. Binance closely vets each project before approval.
  • For users, participating in Launchpad requires holding Binance Coin (BNB). The amount of BNB held determines lottery odds for IEO token allocation.
  • Lottery drawings are held for retail investors to get an allocation of the new token being launched.
  • Launchpad sales typically sell out quickly thanks to overwhelming demand. Lottery odds are low but returns can be high.
  • Historically many Launchpad projects have provided huge returns to early participants. However, there have also been failed projects. Proper research is required.
  • After the IEO, tokens get immediately listed on the Binance exchange for public trading.

Binance Launchpad has been instrumental in the growth of Binance by funding new crypto innovations. It provides unique access to promising projects. However, Launchpad should not replace proper due diligence by investors.


Binance NFTs

In addition to trading cryptocurrencies, Binance also offers an NFT marketplace where users can buy, sell, and mint NFTs on Binance Chain.

Binance NFTs
Binance NFTs

Some key things to know about Binance NFT Marketplace:

  • Supports trading of popular NFT collections like Bored Ape Yacht Club, Doodles, Azuki, and more.
  • Low fees of 1% for creators and no fees for buyers.
  • Accepts payments in Binance's native BNB token as well as ETH.
  • Provides a platform for new NFT projects to launch their collections via Initial Game Offerings (IGOs).
  • Incorporates mystery boxes, auctions, and other features to enhance the NFT trading experience.
  • Strong security measures like 2FA protect against potential NFT scams and hacking.
  • Seamless integration with Binance cryptocurrency exchange accounts.
  • Mobile app available alongside web platform for easy access.

The Binance NFT Marketplace brings together crypto and NFT enthusiasts. It capitalizes on Binance's large existing user base to drive adoption of NFTs. The marketplace is designed to facilitate the minting, trading, and collecting of digital collectibles.


Web 3 Wallet

In addition to its exchange services, Binance offers a multi-chain Web3 cryptocurrency wallet.

Binance Web3 Wallet
Binance Web3 Wallet

Key features of the Binance Web3 Wallet include:

  • Supports major blockchain networks like Ethereum, BNB Chain, Polygon, Solana, Avalanche, and more.
  • Non-custodial wallet gives users full control of their private keys. Binance does not have access.
  • Intuitive interface makes sending, receiving, and interacting with dapps easy.
  • Built-in decentralized exchange lets users trade crypto directly from their wallet.
  • Hardware wallet support for Ledger devices enhances security.
  • Access popular dapps and DeFi platforms directly through the wallet's dapp browser.
  • Cross-chain support allows moving assets between different blockchains.
  • Mobile app available on iOS and Android in addition to web version.
  • Optional multi-signature and social recovery features for security.

The Binance Web3 Wallet provides a secure and easy-to-use gateway to decentralized apps and services. By combining non-custodial wallets with dapp access, it offers users the ability to tap into DeFi, NFTs, gaming, metaverses and more. As an established crypto brand, Binance is well-positioned to drive mainstream adoption of Web3 wallets.


Is Binance Legit?

With cryptocurrency exchanges, it's understandable for users to be concerned about trust and safety. So is Binance a legit and safe platform?

While no cryptocurrency exchange can be 100% infallible, Binance has established a largely reputable track record since its founding in 2017. Here are some points that back up its legitimacy:

  • As the world's largest crypto exchange, Binance handles billions in trades daily across millions of users and has strong incentives to maintain trust.
  • Binance keeps user funds in cold storage and offers robust security measures like address whitelisting, 2FA, and anti-phishing codes. User funds have insurance protection.
  • Being a centralized exchange, Binance maintains strict KYC rules and is regulatory compliant in multiple jurisdictions.
  • Binance is very transparent, offering proofs of reserves, audits from firms like CertiK, and surveillance from blockchain analysis partners.
  • The team has been responsive when security issues have arisen, reimbursing users affected by the 2019 hack.
  • Binance has an established reputation in the crypto community as a founder-led exchange guided by its DOMA philosophy of transparency.

No exchange is perfect. Binance contends with occasional downtime, customer support delays, and ongoing regulatory uncertainty in some regions. However, compared to many smaller exchanges, Binance is about as reputable as it gets for a centralized platform. For most traders, the pros appear to outweigh any cons.


Is Binance Safe?

As a centralized exchange, Binance offers robust security measures to protect user assets.

  • Funds are stored offline in cold wallets and only a small portion kept in hot wallets to facilitate trades.
  • Binance employs industry-standard security protocols including mandatory 2-factor authentication, address whitelisting, anti-phishing codes, and other measures to guard against unauthorized access.
  • User accounts are further protected through email confirmation, device management, and IP address monitoring to detect suspicious activity.
  • Binance maintains an emergency insurance fund through its SAFU (Secure Asset Fund for Users) program that is designed to reimburse users in case of a hack.
  • To date, Binance has responded quickly to support users affected by the only major security breach in May 2019, covering lost funds through its SAFU fund.
  • As a centralized platform, Binance adheres to strict know-your-customer (KYC) rules and verifies user identities to comply with anti-money laundering regulations.
  • However, being centralized also means users must inherently trust Binance to some degree to secure funds rather than relying on blockchain protections.

Binance makes user security and protection of funds a top priority. While no system is unhackable, Binance displays transparency around its security practices and fund safeguards. For most traders, Binance presents a reasonable compromise between security and convenience.


Design & Usability

Binance offers one of the most well-designed and usable trading interfaces in the cryptocurrency industry. Both desktop and mobile apps are intuitive and easy to navigate.

Design & Usability
Design & Usability

Some key design elements that improve usability:

  • Clean layout with modules and widgets that can be customized as needed. Not cluttered.
  • Nice balance between simplicity for new users and features for advanced traders.
  • Easy to search and filter for trading pairs, check order status, see account balances.
  • Charting includes a full range of customizable indicators and drawing tools.
  • Order entry form simplifies process – just pick order type, enter price/amount, and submit.
  • Available both in light and dark mode depending on user preference.
  • Mobile app provides full functionality for trading on the go.
  • Support for over 45 languages lowers barriers for international users.
  • In-app chat and quick links for customer support requests.

Binance prioritizes simplicity and intuitiveness across its platforms. Even users with no prior crypto experience should find it easy to get started. At the same time, experienced traders have access to all the tools and features they expect. The design contributes to an excellent overall user experience.


Mobile Offering

Binance offers iOS and Android mobile apps that are highly rated and downloaded millions of times.

  • The apps provide full access to all account functions and trading capabilities.
  • Supports real-time market data, advanced charting, order management, deposits/withdrawals, etc.
  • Streamlined interface makes navigating and trading on a smaller screen intuitive.
  • Ability to set up watchlists, price alerts, and other customizations.
  • Additional features like staking, savings, P2P trading, NFT marketplace also available on mobile.
  • Supports phone camera to quickly scan and deposit QR codes when transferring funds.
  • Face/Touch ID login and other security measures prevent unauthorized access.
  • Links to Binance Academy and Help Center for learning and troubleshooting.
  • Seamless syncing with web platform and API trading.
Binance Apps
Binance Apps

The Binance mobile experience provides traders with full account control through a well-optimized interface designed for ease-of-use on the go. The apps make it simple to execute trades, manage funds, and use key Binance services from anywhere with an internet connection.


Ease of Use

Binance is one of the most user-friendly exchanges, it has simple options for beginner traders and more advanced options for pros.

  • Clean, intuitive user interface makes navigating straightforward for new users.
  • Easy account creation process – just enter email, password, enable 2FA.
  • Convenient fiat on-ramps allow buying crypto directly by card, bank transfer, etc.
  • Simple spot trading platform has market, limit, and stop-limit order types.
  • Buying and selling crypto takes just a couple clicks.
  • Built-in wallet makes deposits and withdrawals seamless.
  • Robust mobile apps offer full functionality for trading on the go.
  • Multiple platforms suitable for basic conversions up to advanced trading.
  • Excellent search and sorting tools to find trading pairs.
  • In-app chat support feature for quick assistance.
  • Support for multiple languages lowers barriers for international users.
  • Well-organized interface avoids information overload.

While Binance has an extensive set of features, the platform has been thoughtfully designed for simplicity. Common tasks like executing trades, funding accounts, and managing assets are intuitive even for crypto beginners. With its focus on usability, Binance stands out for ease of use.


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