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

# Deposit Funds

All trading on Strix Lab is settled in **USDC** — a US-dollar stablecoin, where 1 USDC ≈ $1. To take positions, you first deposit USDC into your wallet.

Strix Lab runs on **Base**, an Ethereum-based blockchain network. This matters for one reason: **your USDC must be sent on the Base network.** You'll see this confirmed on the Deposit screen — always double-check it there before sending.

### Don't have any USDC yet?

If you're new to crypto, there are two ways to get USDC:

* **Buy directly in the app.** \<!-- TODO: confirm whether Privy onramp / card purchase is enabled — if yes, document the flow here; if no, delete this bullet --> You can purchase USDC with a debit/credit card from the Deposit screen — it lands in your wallet automatically, on the right network, with no extra steps. This is the simplest path for first-timers.
* **Buy on an exchange, then transfer.** Create an account on an exchange such as Coinbase or Binance, buy USDC there, then withdraw it to your Strix Lab wallet using the steps below.

If you already hold USDC in another wallet or on an exchange, skip straight to the steps.

### Deposit in three steps

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Open Deposit

From your **Portfolio**, click **Deposit**. You'll see two things: your wallet address, and the network to send on (**Base**). You can copy the address with one click.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Send USDC on the Base Network

From your exchange or wallet, withdraw/send USDC to your Strix Lab wallet address.

The critical moment is on the **exchange's withdrawal screen**: when Coinbase, Binance, or any other platform asks you to **choose a network**, select **Base**. This is where mistakes happen — the address alone is not enough; the network must match.

{% hint style="danger" %}
**Send USDC on Base only.** Sending USDC on the wrong network, or sending a different token to this address, can result in **permanent loss of funds**. Always confirm the network shown on the Deposit screen before sending.
{% endhint %}

**First time?** Send a small test amount first (e.g. $5–10). Once it arrives in your balance, send the rest with confidence.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Wait for confirmation

Your deposit appears once the blockchain confirms the transfer — usually **under a minute**. Your available balance updates automatically; no manual claiming needed.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

### Withdrawing

Your funds are always yours — you can withdraw USDC to any wallet at any time from **Portfolio → Withdraw**.

The same network rule applies in reverse: if you're withdrawing to an exchange, check that the exchange's **deposit** page for USDC supports the **Base** network before sending, and use the deposit address it shows you for Base.


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