Uphold, a global cryptocurrency broker, is expanding its capabilities for self-custodial wallets with the launch of a new crypto off-ramp solution through its payment platform, Topper.
The solution supports 232 cryptocurrencies, the firm told Cointelegraph on Dec. 4.
The off-ramp tool is designed to improve access to crypto through self-custodial or non-custodial wallets, decentralized exchanges (DEXs) and Web3 projects.
The off-ramp solution enables users of self-custodial wallets like MetaMask to sell crypto assets and withdraw fiat proceeds directly to their debit cards.
A historical lack of off-ramp support
Crypto on-ramps and off-ramps refer to fiat money exchanges against cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BTC), bridging the crypto market with the traditional financial system.
Seld-custodial wallets and hardware wallets are often associated with a lack of off-ramp options, with Ledger featuring only one off-ramp method as of September.
Off-ramp versus on-ramp transactions in crypto. Source: B2BinPay
“Topper now supports the full cycle, not just accepting digital payments, but also enabling smooth and flexible off-ramps so users can exit the digital economy when they choose,” Topper’s global head of sales, Frankie Picciano, said.
Unlike crypto assets stored on centralized crypto exchanges (CEXs) or other custodial solutions, users can move self-custodied assets freely, removing friction but also requiring holders to responsibly and safely store their private keys.
Selling self-custody crypto
Users can access Topper’s off-ramp solution via its website, Uphold Enterprise CEO Robin O’Connell told Cointelegraph.
XRP (XRP) wallet Xaman is among the initially supported wallets, but O’Connell said that more partners are being added and will go live “in the coming weeks,” including “Ledger, Trezor, Changelly, Onramper, Meld and Vespr Wallet.”
“DEXs and self-custodial wallets will allow users to withdraw digital assets via the blockchain, but not all have an easy way to convert the digital assets to fiat and send them instantly to your bank account,” O’Connell said. He added:
“A regulated CEX typically has some level of ‘send to bank’ functionality. An unregulated DEX or a self-custodial wallet needs a regulated entity like Uphold to manage this aspect.”
KYC, restrictions and fees
O’Connell said that Topper’s off-ramp solution will be available in more than 230 countries worldwide, including in harder-to-serve regions like Latin America, the Asia-Pacific region and Africa.
“We utilize Visa Direct and Mastercard Send, which are instant payouts to a user’s debit card, which is tied to their bank account,” the CEO noted, adding that Topper instantly converts funds as soon as crypto reaches its wallets.
Related: Brazil proposes to ban stablecoin withdrawals to self-custodial wallets
“To ensure we remain in compliance with applicable reporting requirements in the jurisdictions in which we operate, we may collect and verify a user’s personal information, including their legal name, address, government identification, date of birth and additional applicable details as needed,” O’Connell told Cointelegraph.
At launch, Topper’s off-ramp will have a 1.75% transaction fee, he said, adding that the tool will offer a no-fee promo for off-ramp transactions until Dec. 22. The daily limit on withdrawal transactions is $24,000, O’Connell said.
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