There are several exchanges like Kraken, Gatecoin, etc. Is it safe to keep Ether on one of these exchanges when the switchover from Pioneer to Homestead takes place?
3 Answers
Given the sordid history of exchanges in the crypto world to-date, it is not advisable to hold large sums with them.
That said, the homestead update itself shouldn't make any difference.
Yes, the homestead release won't affect your ether whether stored on an exchange or on your own computer. However, in general storing ether (or any cryptocurrency) on an exchange is always a risk, as the history of various failed exchanges shows (MtGox, Cryptsy). They can be hacked, they can be mismanaged, and they can be fraudulent.
If you want to store and hold ether safely, I'd recommend installing the Mist wallet available here, and backing up the keystore onto a separate device.
answered Feb 24, 2016 at 17:21
Yes, But I personally have most of my ETH in the mist wallet at home. Exchanges are ok if you are trading but best to have it secure at home.
