In a bold move to tackle mounting skepticism around centralised crypto platforms, KuCoin unveiled its $2 billion “Trust Project” during the TOKEN2049 summit. The initiative, announced to over 15,000 attendees, targets security, transparency, and regulatory compliance as the exchange seeks to rebuild user faith amid industry-wide scrutiny.
With crypto exchanges facing heat over asset safety and inconsistent regulations, KuCoin’s CEO, BC Wong, declared the project “already in motion,” signalling urgency to address gaps plaguing the sector. The pledge comes as KuCoin reports 38 million users globally, driven by surging adoption in Latin America and the Middle East.
A $2 Billion Blueprint
KuCoin’s multi-year plan allocates funds across security, compliance, and education while boosting its native token, KCS. Though specifics remain unclear, $300 million will fuel developer grants for security audits, while $750 million will stabilise market liquidity. Another $500 million upgrades anti-fraud systems.
“This isn’t just a pledge; it’s action,” Wong told Crypto.news, emphasising phased rollouts. Following this, KCS surged 15% post-announcement, reflecting trader optimism. However, critics note past regulatory fines, including a $300 million U.S. settlement, raising questions about execution.
Measures to Prevent Breaches
Following a recent SOC 2 Type II audit, KuCoin plans to advance infrastructure to safeguard assets. The exchange will fund third-party audits and real-time reserve reporting, aligning with institutional finance standards.
Additionally, grants for transparency tools aim to empower projects sharing KuCoin’s “trust-first” ethos. “User protection is non-negotiable,” said KuCoin EU CEO Oliver Stauber during the keynote. These steps respond to incidents like exchange hacks, which have eroded public confidence industry-wide.
Currying Favour Regulators
KuCoin’s rocky history with Japan, Hong Kong, and South Korea regulators underscores the project’s compliance focus. Fresh funds will enhance KYC/AML systems and expand licensed services, like its Thai platform approved in April 2025.
The firm is also pursuing an EU MiCAR license, aiming to operate in 30 European states. “Collaboration with regulators is critical,” Wong admitted, acknowledging past missteps. While the strategy may ease legal risks, observers await tangible outcomes.
Supercharging the KCS Ecosystem
The Trust Project prioritises expanding KCS utility, linking its value to community engagement. Though KuCoin hasn’t confirmed token buybacks, KCS gains hinted at investor approval.
Plans include governance roles and rewards for holders, potentially deepening user loyalty. Still, vague details leave some skeptical. “Clear incentives are key,” remarked a crypto analyst on X. “Without them, hype fades fast.”
Stabilizing A Volatile Markets
To curb wild price swings, KuCoin dedicates $750 million to liquidity support, particularly for smaller tokens. This could attract traders deterred by unstable markets while fostering a healthier ecosystem.
The move follows Amazon’s recent outage, which experts called a “textbook example” of centralised system risks. By contrast, KuCoin bets liquidity injections will balance reliability with crypto’s decentralised ideals.
Educating Users
Global education programs form the project’s final pillar, though specifics remain scattered. KuCoin aims to demystify crypto for beginners while promoting best practices as a step toward mainstream acceptance.
“Empowered users build a credible industry,” Wong stated. Initiatives may include tutorials, webinars, or partnerships, aligning with rivals like Coinbase’s “Learn and Earn” campaigns. Success hinges on accessibility, especially in high-growth regions like MENA.
Will KuCoin’s Gamble Pay Off?
While the Trust Project’s scope is ambitious, execution challenges loom. Unclear fund splits and timelines risk diluting impact, and regulatory hurdles persist. Yet, with 38 million users and a rebounding token, KuCoin has resources to lead by example.
“Trust isn’t built overnight,” Wong conceded, urging patience. As the crypto world watches, the project’s legacy may hinge on one question: Can promises evolve into proof?
