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White-Label Exchange
What you get: A pre-built exchange (trading engine, UI, wallet integration, basic KYC) that you customize with your branding and configure. Deployed in 8–14 weeks.
What you don't get: Unique features, complete source code ownership, deep customization of core matching engine, freedom to hire any developer to maintain it.
Best White-Label Platforms
- AlphaPoint: institutional-grade, US company, $20,000–$50,000/month SaaS
- HollaEx: open-source with managed services option
- Modulus: compliance-focused, matches US regulatory requirements
- Merkeleon: full-featured, Eastern European development
White-label pricing: $50,000–$150,000 setup + $5,000–$25,000/month licensing.
Custom Exchange Build
What you get: Complete source code ownership. Any feature you can specify. Full control over compliance implementation. No vendor lock-in. Team that understands every line of code.
What you don't get: The speed of white-label (custom takes 20–52 weeks). The cost of white-label (custom is more expensive upfront).
Custom build pricing: $60,000–$500,000+ depending on complexity.
Decision Matrix
| Factor | White-Label | Custom Build |
|---|---|---|
Launch timeline | 8–14 weeks | 20–52 weeks |
Initial cost | $50K–$150K | $60K–$500K+ |
Ongoing cost | $5K–$25K/month | $3K–$15K/month infra |
Source code ownership | No | Yes |
Customization depth | Limited | Unlimited |
Vendor dependency | High | None |
Support | Vendor SLA | Internal/partner |
Best for | MVPs, quick launch, budget-constrained | Long-term platforms, unique features |