Back to articles

Platform vs self channels—follow the money

The real differences between CHINAUSDT platform and self channels: sweep target, payout path, and key custody.

In CHINAUSDT, fund flow is determined only by channel type. The same account can run both types; each order derives the money path.

PlatformSelf
Sweep targetPlatform poolMerchant address
PayoutWithdrawal flowAlready on-chain at merchant
KeysPlatform pool walletMerchant wallet (pay password + recovery capability)

Exclusive vs shared merchants is orthogonal—both channel types can use grants. Choose platform for pooled ops; choose self when proceeds should never enter the platform pool.