Ledn vs SALT - Why Ledn is the top SALT Alternative

Looking to unlock liquidity without selling your Bitcoin? Ledn gives you verifiable custody, clear legal protection, and consistent performance.

See how it compares to SALT Lending and why long-term Bitcoin holders choose Ledn.

Ledn vs SALT: What’s the difference?

SALT offers loans backed by multiple digital assets including Bitcoin, Ether, and its own SALT token. It features tools like collateral stabilisation but has faced regulatory investigations and license suspensions.

Ledn is built for people who want clarity and control. It offers Bitcoin-backed loans with simple terms, public audits, and a flawless security record.

Ledn Cayman SEZC Inc., which provides Ledn’s lending products (other than Ledn Growth accounts), is regulated as a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA).

At a glance: Ledn vs SALT Lending

Max LTV
50%
50 % (30–70 % options)
Starting APR/rate
10.4 interest + 2 admin ≈ 12.4 APR
10.95 % APR at 50 % LTV (range 8.95 %–14.45 %)
Minimum loan
US $500 loan (US $1 000 BTC collateral)
US $5 000 minimum
Standard term
12 months, repay any time
12 months; monthly-interest or pay-at-maturity
Is collateral lent out?
No
In-house custody with optional SALT Shield™ stabilization; no credit check (saltlending.com)

3 reasons why Ledn is the trusted choice

1. Public audits

Ledn has published biannual Proof-of-Reserves audits with a CPA since 2021. SALT does not publish audits of reserves or liabilities, leaving less visibility into asset backing.

2. Proven compliance

Ledn operates with clear regulatory approvals and avoids jurisdictions where it lacks licensing. SALT was fined by California’s DFPI, had its license suspended, and previously settled charges with the SEC over an unregistered ICO.

3. Simple, transparent lending

Ledn loans are straightforward: no monthly payments, no early penalties, and no platform token. SALT’s terms can vary based on token use, and features like stabilisation introduce extra mechanics and fees.

Why Bitcoin holders choose Ledn over SALT

Ledn is focused. It offers one thing and does it well: safe, transparent Bitcoin-backed lending. SALT supports a wider range of assets, but with that comes complexity and a mixed compliance history.

Custody you can trust

Ledn clients’ Bitcoin stays in cold storage and is not lent out. Every loan is backed by verifiable reserves. SALT uses Fireblocks for custody, but does not publish attested reserve data.

No tokens, no surprises

Ledn doesn’t rely on token holdings or platform perks to determine your rate. SALT offers discounts via SALT token use, which can introduce volatility and make fees harder to predict.

Built for simplicity, not workarounds

Ledn loans are straightforward: no stabilisation mechanisms, no liquidation surprises, and no shifting terms. SALT’s stabilisation tools aim to prevent liquidations, but they add operational complexity, fees, and sometimes unexpected asset conversions.

We are bigger than all other crypto lenders...combined

Ledn is the biggest consumer crypto lender, with over $9 billion in loan originations since 2018 thanks to our unbroken track record.

Loans funded since 2018

$9,000,000,000

Your collateral is secure

Collateral is held in custody with Ledn or our funding partner. Neither Ledn nor our funding partners have the right to lend out the collateral. Your Bitcoin is safe.

Every 6 months
Proof of Reserves
Collateral held securely in custody
Custodied Loans

Unmatched speed and flexilibity

Once collateral is received, our current funding ETA is 6.9 hours with no credit checks required. Repay whenever you want, without penalty. Use our auto top up feature to protect your collateral from Bitcoin price fluctuations.

Current funding ETA*  18 hours
Repay whenever you want, without penalty
Loan terms are 12 months. Renew as long as your LTV is healthy.
Redeem collateral when your LTV is healthy.

We strive for ever-more competitive rates

We are committed to offering the most competitive rates possible to our customers.

January 1st 2025
14.9% APR
May 1st 2025
13.4% APR
As of May 27th 2025
12.9 APR

Global accessibility is at the core of our mission

We believe in the power of Bitcoin to provide fair access to credit, no matter where you’re located.

Why hodlers love Ledn

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Ledn's Founding Story

Co-founders Adam and Mauricio explain why they started Ledn

What started as a passion project with a few close colleagues has grown to a global company with 50+ employees, offering a full suite of lending, savings and trading products in over 120 countries. Ledn strives to improve the everyday lives of Bitcoin holders today, while building generational wealth for the future. Through its products & services, Ledn makes a difference in the lives and futures of its clients - in real terms.

Ready to Unlock Your Bitcoin’s Potential?