> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://bound-1.gitbook.io/bound-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://bound-1.gitbook.io/bound-docs/getting-started/readme.md).

# Overview

Bound is a self-custodial exchange that brings investing, borrowing, and Bitcoin-native assets into one unified account.

Bound gives users one account to trade, borrow, and access Bitcoin-native assets while keeping control of their keys. Instead of relying on pooled liquidity, wrapped assets, or custodial intermediaries, Bound uses RFQ-powered markets and atomic settlement so trades and loans execute all-or-nothing with clear terms before signing.

## What you can do with Bound

### Trade BTC

Trade BTC at competitive, market-set rates. Execution requires your signature, and settlement happens directly on Bitcoin.

### Swap across chains

Swap major assets into BTC without relying on bridges, wrapped tokens, or custodial intermediaries. Bound is designed around atomic, onchain settlement.

### Borrow against BTC

Access fixed-rate, fixed-term bUSD liquidity using BTC collateral. Bound loans are designed with no price-based liquidation and no margin calls. Your BTC remains locked on Bitcoin and is never pooled or rehypothecated.

### Access Bitcoin-native assets

Use one self-custodial account to access stablecoins, tokens, and collectibles issued on Bitcoin.

## How Bound works

Bound is powered by a request-for-quote network. When you trade or borrow, professional solvers compete in real time to provide pricing. This creates peer-to-peer execution instead of routing users through shared liquidity pools.

Every transaction is designed to settle atomically: either every leg completes together, or nothing executes.

## Why Bound is different

* **Self-custodial by design** - users hold their keys, and Bound cannot access or rehypothecate funds.
* **Built for Bitcoin** - BTC stays native, with settlement designed around Bitcoin's security model.
* **No pooled funds** - user assets are not concentrated in a shared contract or pool.
* **RFQ-powered pricing** - solvers compete to quote trades and loans.
* **Unified account experience** - one account for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana wallets, with passkey-based authentication and account recovery support.