Proof of Reserves (PoR) is a critical transparency mechanism used by crypto platforms like OKX to verify user asset holdings. This guide explores how PoR snapshots work, why discrepancies may occur, and methods to verify your account equity.
Why Account Assets May Differ from PoR Snapshots
When using margin trading or loan products, your displayed assets and PoR snapshot results can vary due to:
- Open margin positions: Fluctuating market values create temporary differences between live balances and snapshot captures
- Loan collateralization: Borrowed assets appear in snapshots but may not reflect in your portfolio's net equity display
Key Factors Affecting Discrepancies
Margin Trading Positions
- Collateral and unrealized P&L appear in "My Portfolio"
- Purchased assets/debts are excluded from portfolio view but included in PoR snapshots
Grow Account Loans
- Collateralized assets remain in snapshots
- Borrowed amounts reduce your net equity position
Evaluating Account Value Differences
All calculation methods ultimately yield the same total USD account value, despite crypto quantity variations. For example:
A margin position with 3 ETH borrowed and sold for 3,300 USDT will show:
- ETH balance decreased by 3 in snapshot
- USDT balance increased by 3,300
- Combined snapshot equals the position's unrealized P&L
Margin Trading Verification Methods
Supported Account Modes
| Trading Mode | Simple | Single-Currency | Multi-Currency | Portfolio Margin |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cross Margin | —— | Supported | —— | —— |
| Isolated (Auto) | —— | Supported | Supported | Supported |
| Isolated (Quick) | —— | Supported | Supported | —— |
👉 Learn more about margin account types
Viewing Your Account Mode
Navigate to:
- Trade > Settings > Account Mode
- Toggle between "Auto Transfer" and "Quick Margin" for isolated positions
Detailed Calculation Examples
Cross Margin Position Example
| Metric | Account Equity | Snapshot Equity |
|---|---|---|
| ETH Calculation | 15 + 0.0283 = 15.0283 ETH | 15 + 9.99 = 24.99 ETH |
| USDT Calculation | 9,000 USDT | 9,000 - 10,872.4 = -1,872.4 USDT |
| USD Value | $0 difference | Matches exactly |
Key Takeaway: While crypto quantities differ, total USD values remain identical across calculation methods.
Isolated Margin (Auto Transfer) Example
| Metric | Account Equity | Snapshot Equity |
|---|---|---|
| ETH Calculation | 14 + 1 - 0.0042 = 14.9958 ETH | 14 + 10.99 = 24.99 ETH |
| USDT Calculation | 9,000 USDT | 9,000 - 14,069.3 = -5,069.3 USDT |
| USD Value | $0 difference | Matches exactly |
Isolated Margin (Quick) Example
| Metric | Account Equity | Snapshot Equity |
|---|---|---|
| ETH Calculation | 5 + 19.99 = 24.99 ETH | 5 + 19.99 = 24.99 ETH |
| USDT Calculation | 9,000 - 14,099.8 = -5,099.8 USDT | Identical to account |
| USD Value | $0 difference | Perfect alignment |
Grow Account Loan Verification
Loan Mechanics Example
Initial: 5,000 USDT in funding account
After borrowing 0.1 BTC with 5,000 USDT collateral:
| Metric | Account View | Snapshot |
|---|---|---|
| BTC | 0.1 BTC | 0 BTC |
| USDT | 3,422.46 (equity) | 5,000 USDT |
| Key Difference | Shows net position | Shows raw assets |
👉 Understand collateral management
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my portfolio show different numbers than the PoR snapshot?
The snapshot captures raw asset quantities, while your portfolio displays net equity after accounting for liabilities like loans or margin positions.
How often are PoR snapshots taken?
OKX performs regular snapshots, typically coinciding with monthly audits, but may capture more frequently during volatile periods.
Can I use snapshot data to verify my account security?
Yes. By comparing your personal records with PoR snapshots, you can independently verify asset custody.
Do snapshots include all account types?
PoR covers trading accounts, funding accounts, and Grow accounts, providing a complete picture of platform-held assets.
How are negative balances handled in snapshots?
Liabilities appear as negative quantities, ensuring transparent representation of all positions.
What's the best way to reconcile differences?
Review your transaction history and account statements alongside the snapshot data for comprehensive verification.