#CryptoCharts101 Centralized exchanges (CEX) are cryptocurrency trading platforms where a company acts as an intermediary, while decentralized exchanges (DEX) operate without a central intermediary and use smart contracts on a blockchain to facilitate transactions. In summary:

CEX:

Easier to use, higher liquidity, regulatory compliance, but greater centralized risk.

DEX:

Greater security and autonomy, but greater complexity of use and lower liquidity.