Binance Converts $100M SAFU Fund to Bitcoin, Updates TradFi Perpetual Specs
Tony Kim Feb 12, 2026 04:50
Binance shifts emergency fund reserves to BTC and announces TradFi perpetual contract amendments, while revealing $6.69B in scam prevention for 2025.
Binance is converting its entire $100 million SAFU emergency fund from stablecoins to Bitcoin within the next 30 days, marking a significant shift in how the exchange protects user assets. The move comes alongside technical amendments to its recently launched TradFi perpetual contracts and a comprehensive year-end report revealing the exchange helped prevent $6.69 billion in scam-related losses during 2025.
The SAFU fund conversion includes a built-in rebalancing mechanism to maintain the fund's value above $80 million regardless of Bitcoin price swings. That's a notable risk tolerance—the exchange is essentially betting its emergency reserves can stomach a 20% BTC drawdown before triggering rebalancing.
2025 By the Numbers
Binance's open letter to the crypto community laid out some eye-catching figures. The exchange recovered $48 million in incorrect deposits for 38,648 users last year, pushing cumulative recovery totals past $1.09 billion. More striking: the platform identified potential risks for 5.4 million users and worked with global law enforcement to confiscate $131 million in illicit funds.
On the asset side, Binance's proof-of-reserves showed full backing of approximately $162.8 billion across 45 crypto assets by year-end. The spot listing program expanded to cover 21 public blockchains, including 13 new chains spanning payment, gaming, and social applications.
TradFi Perpetual Contract Updates
The exchange also announced price precision amendments to its TradFi perpetual contracts, effective February 11, 2026. These USDT-settled perpetuals—which launched in early January with gold (XAUUSDT) and silver (XAGUSDT) offerings—let traders access traditional market exposure 24/7 without holding the underlying assets.
The contracts operate through Nest Exchange Limited under Abu Dhabi's FSRA regulatory framework. Binance uses an Exponentially Weighted Moving Average for mark price calculation when traditional markets close, preventing manipulation during off-hours.
What Traders Should Watch
The BTC conversion timeline matters. With 30 days to complete the shift, any significant Bitcoin price movement could affect the final allocation. The $80 million floor suggests Binance is comfortable with moderate volatility but has drawn a clear line on downside protection.
For TradFi perp traders, the precision changes may affect order placement and execution on affected contracts. Binance has indicated plans to expand the TradFi perpetual lineup beyond precious metals, though specific assets and dates haven't been announced.
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