Binance is taking steps to enhance its user experience by introducing a self-transaction prevention (STP) function to prevent unnecessary trading fees associated with unintentional self-trades. The full rollout of this function for all spot and margin trading users is scheduled for October 26, as announced on the company’s blog on October 11.

Binance’s Solution to Self-Trades: Unveiling the STP Function

With the integration of STP, Binance will introduce the “expire maker” mode as the default setting for all trading pairs and orders on its spot and margin trading platforms.

This feature will help users identify orders that have expired due to the STP function, allowing them to review these transactions via the Binance official website, Binance App, and Binance Desktop App on the transaction history page.

Binance initially introduced the STP functionality in January 2023. STP functionality aimed to block the execution of orders that would result in self-trades. These self-trades are often an unintended consequence.

Particularly, for application programming interface (API) traders using specific programs to execute automated trades through the exchange’s trading engine. With the STP function in place, API traders can prevent accidental self-trading, thereby avoiding unnecessary fees associated with such transactions.

#Binance has rolled out Self-Trade Prevention (STP) to all spot and margin users based on community feedback.

This protects users from inadvertently executing self-trades and incurring unnecessary fees.https://t.co/uFmfw0o675

— Binance (@binance) October 11, 2023

Vigilance Against Market Manipulation

Binance explained the need for STP by highlighting the risk of unintentional self-trading in a competitive marketplace. The exchange stated that without the STP function, it is possible for orders from separate trading units of the same entity, using the same unique UID, but with unrelated trading strategies, to unintentionally trade with each other.

It’s essential to note that the STP function addresses unintentional self-trades. However, Binance remains committed to preventing intentional self-trading on the platform, considering it a form of market manipulation.

Binance’s market surveillance team actively monitors and identifies any intentional self-trading and other potential forms of market manipulation. The exchange has a range of tools in place to track such activities and investigate offenders.

Binance initially integrated the STP feature for USD-margined futures on API in August 2023. Importantly, the STP function is optional and only takes effect when users choose to enable it.

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