Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started

• What is Stoic.ai and how does it work?

  Stoic.ai is an advanced AI-powered crypto trading platform developed by Cindicator, built on over 10 years of quantitative trading expertise. It offers a range of ready-to-use trading strategies, each designed by professional quants and tested over years to serve different investment goals — from steady growth to market-neutral returns. Once connected to your exchange account, Stoic automatically executes trades using algorithmic models that analyze market trends, volatility, and technical indicators 24/7.

• Who is behind Stoic.ai and what is the company's history?

  The platform was launched in 2020 by Cindicator, founded in 2015 by Mike Brusov and Yuri Lobyntsev. Before creating this automated trading solution, the team built a Collective Intelligence platform with over 200,000 analysts and invested more than $9M in R&D. Since launch, we've processed over $2B in trading volume and have managed more than $200M in assets

• Is this crypto trading bot safe and secure?

  Yes. The platform operates on a fully non-custodial model — your funds always remain on your exchange account and never transfer to us. We connect via secure read-only and trade-execution API keys using industry-standard encryption protocols. The bot cannot withdraw funds from your account, ensuring complete control over your assets while maintaining institutional-grade security standards.

• Which cryptocurrency exchanges are supported?

  The platform integrates with six major cryptocurrency exchanges: Binance, Binance US, Coinbase, Bybit, KuCoin, and Crypto.com. You can connect any of these exchange accounts through secure API integration, with your capital remaining fully under your control on the exchange platform.

• Do I need programming or trading experience to use this bot?

  No technical expertise is required. The platform is designed for both cryptocurrency beginners and experienced traders, providing a user-friendly interface with pre-configured investment strategies that require no coding knowledge or manual trading experience. Setup takes minutes through guided API connection.

Trading Strategies & Technology

• What's the technology behind Stoic AI?

  Stoic AI uses a machine learning (ML) approach based on statistical and quantitative optimization, rather than deep learning or neural networks. Its focus is on interpretable, robust, and risk-aware portfolio management.
  

  • Mean-variance optimization with regularization — maximizing expected returns while minimizing volatility.
  • Forecasting key parameters — including expected returns, volatility, and correlations
  • Convex optimization — ensuring globally optimal and stable portfolio allocations.

  
  Our quantitative researchers develop strategies in a dedicated platform for back-testing, forward-testing, and live simulations. Only after a strategy proves alpha in live trading is it made publicly available through the Stoic AI app, so users can access proven, data-driven strategies safely and effortlessly.

• What trading strategies are available?

  The platform provides several primary investment strategies:

  • Meta Strategy: A market-neutral approach using 50:50 long/short positions to generate returns in any market direction, including during downturns
  • Bitcoin Yield Strategy: An automated trading system designed to grow your Bitcoin holdings
  • Fixed Income: A stable, return-focused strategy designed for consistent performance regardless of market volatility
  • Stoic AI Crypto Index: An index-based strategy that mirrors market movements and is optimized for maximum growth during bull market uptrends

  
  Users can employ all three strategies simultaneously to diversify their portfolio by creating separate sub-accounts or using different exchanges.

• Can I customize my own trading strategies?

  The platform offers professionally optimized pre-configured strategies rather than custom strategy creation. This approach ensures that all strategies benefit from our 10+ years of quantitative research, continuous algorithmic optimization, and risk management protocols developed by experienced quant traders. The strategies automatically adapt to changing market conditions without manual intervention.

• How does the bot perform in bear markets and crashes?

  Performance depends on the strategy you choose. Stoic AI offers a set of strategies designed for different investment goals, including those optimized to navigate bear markets. For example, the Meta strategy uses a market-neutral approach to hedge against downturns, and the Fixed Income strategy focuses on delivering stable returns regardless of market direction. In contrast, the Stoic AI Crypto Index strategy, which mirrors market movements, is unlikely to generate positive returns when the overall market declines. By combining different strategies, users can build a portfolio better equipped to perform across various market conditions. Historical performance since 2020 shows consistent operation through multiple bear markets and periods of high volatility.

• Does the platform use leverage in trading?

  By default, Stoic AI does not employ leverage, prioritizing capital preservation and sustainable long-term growth through diversified, risk-managed strategies. For institutional clients, leverage can be applied to the Meta strategy upon request to enhance performance. This is considered relatively low risk, as the Meta strategy’s historical maximum drawdown is approximately 14%. Leverage is therefore available for larger portfolios under controlled conditions.

• What is backtesting and how is it used?

  Backtesting evaluates trading strategies against historical market data to verify their effectiveness before live deployment. We extensively backtest all strategies across multiple market cycles, volatility regimes, and asset correlations to ensure robustness. This process refines algorithms and validates risk parameters, contributing to our proven track record since 2020.

Crypto Assets & Trading Activity

• Which cryptocurrencies does the bot trade?

  The platform supports a diversified portfolio of major cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and other high-liquidity digital assets. The exact list varies by exchange and strategy, with our algorithms automatically selecting optimal assets based on market conditions, liquidity requirements, and risk parameters.

• Is there a limit on the number of cryptocurrencies the trading bot can trade?

  No restrictive limits apply to cryptocurrency diversity within a selected strategy. Our algorithms automatically determine the optimal portfolio allocation across multiple digital assets based on the size of your portfolio and the chosen investment strategy.

• Are there restrictions on trade execution frequency?

  Trade execution frequency is primarily determined by the selected strategy and the exchange on which it operates. For instance, the Meta and Stoic AI Crypto Index strategies on Binance typically rebalance hourly, leveraging low fees and high liquidity. On exchanges with higher trading costs, such as Coinbase, more frequent rebalancing would be unprofitable, so trades are executed on a daily basis. The bot continuously optimizes execution to align with each strategy’s parameters and the conditions of the exchange.

• How often are trading algorithms updated?

  We continuously track the performance of each sub-strategy, updating the active strategy set to retain only those demonstrating consistent effectiveness. Risk management protocols are regularly refined, and the trading platform’s efficiency is continually enhanced. Significant algorithmic improvements, informed by research, backtesting, and live performance, are deployed on an ongoing basis to ensure optimal results.

Performance & Risk Management

• Does the platform guarantee profits from crypto trading?

  No cryptocurrency trading platform can guarantee profits. While we utilize advanced algorithms, extensive backtesting, and professional risk management, all crypto trading involves inherent market risk and potential capital loss. Historical performance is not indicative of future results. The platform aims to optimize risk-adjusted returns through diversification and hedging, but users should only invest capital they can afford to lose.

• What is the historical success rate of the strategies?

  We maintain a transparent, publicly verifiable trading history since 2020 across multiple market cycles. Success rates vary by strategy and market conditions—the Meta strategy has demonstrated profitability during both bull and bear markets, while Fixed Income targets stable, consistent returns. Detailed performance metrics, including drawdown statistics and risk-adjusted returns, are available on our Strategies page on the website.

• How does automated trading compare to HODL (buy and hold) strategy?

  HODL is a passive approach that profits only during market appreciation and is fully exposed to drawdowns during corrections. Stoic AI, in contrast, actively trades 24/7 using 200+ sub-strategies to capture value in all market conditions—uptrends, downtrends, and sideways consolidation.
  Different strategies serve different goals:

  • The Meta and Fixed Income strategies are market-neutral and can generate returns even during market downturns through hedging.
  • The Bitcoin Yield strategy actively trades to generate additional income while holding BTC to reflect Bitcoin’s price movements.

  
  While automated trading can provide more consistent performance across market cycles, it involves a different risk profile compared to long-term passive holding.

• What reporting and analytics are provided?

  The platform offers comprehensive portfolio analytics, including real-time balance and positions tracking within the web and mobile apps. Users can monitor all trades directly on their connected exchange account. In addition, strategy factsheets are updated monthly, offering insights into each strategy’s objectives, performance, and risk profile, so users can make informed decisions based on up-to-date data.

• What are the risks of using Stoic.ai?

  While Stoic AI employs sophisticated risk management and expert-developed strategies, all trading involves inherent risks. Past performance does not guarantee future results, and market conditions can impact strategy effectiveness. Our Fixed Income strategy, while designed to be market-neutral through hedged positions, depends on funding rate differentials that can fluctuate. During extreme market stress, funding rates may temporarily turn negative, though our algorithms actively monitor these conditions and can close positions to protect capital when necessary. Growth-oriented strategies like Stoic AI Crypto Index carry higher risk as they take directional market exposure, meaning they can experience drawdowns during market declines. Even our diversified Meta strategy with 200+ sub-strategies cannot eliminate all market risk. We implement advanced risk controls including position limits, automatic rebalancing, and real-time monitoring to minimize potential losses. However, you should only trade with capital you can afford to risk and select strategies aligned with your risk tolerance. Our transparent performance tracking shows both gains and losses so you can make informed decisions about your investment approach.

Costs, Deposits & Withdrawals

• How much does the service cost?

  Stoic AI operates on a subscription model based on assets under management (AUM) that you connect to our service. The standard management fee is around 5% annually, and we do not charge any performance fees — meaning all profits generated by the algorithms remain entirely yours.
  We offer both monthly and annual subscription options, giving you flexibility in how you manage your account. For clients with larger portfolios (AUM above $100,000), we provide special conditions and discounted management fees. For the details and options for clients with larger AUMs, please visit our Crypto Wealth Management page.
  Your funds always stay in your exchange account under your full control — Stoic AI only manages the trading activity through secure API connections.

• What is the minimum investment required to start?

  To ensure effective execution and diversification, we recommend a minimum of $1,000. This allows our algorithms to allocate capital across multiple positions, manage risk more efficiently, and avoid issues with exchange minimum order sizes. For the Fixed Income strategy, you can start with $500, though higher amounts improve execution quality. With these minimums, our strategies can function as designed, maintaining diversification and precision in trade execution.

• Is there a free trial or demo period?

  We may offer trial periods or demo accounts that allow users to explore platform features and review strategy performance before committing capital. For current promotional offers, trial terms, and demo availability, please visit our official website or contact our support team for more information.

• Can I withdraw my funds anytime?

  Yes. Since the platform operates non-custodially with your funds remaining on your connected exchange, you maintain complete control and can withdraw at any time directly through your exchange account. We simply execute trades — we cannot restrict your access to capital.

Platform Access & Support

• How do I set up the bot with my crypto exchange?

  Setting up requires three simple steps: (1) Create an account on our platform, (2) Generate API keys from your supported exchange (Binance, Coinbase, Bybit, KuCoin, or Crypto.com), and (3) Securely connect these API keys through our platform following guided instructions. We provide step-by-step setup tutorials, and the process typically takes under 10 minutes.

• Can I use the platform on mobile devices?

  Yes. We offer mobile compatibility through responsive web access and dedicated mobile applications, enabling you to monitor portfolio performance and manage settings from anywhere. The mobile experience provides full access to analytics and account controls while the algorithms continue executing trades 24/7.

• What customer support is provided?

  We provide customer support via email at [email protected] and through the in-app chat available both in the Stoic AI app and on our website. Our human support team operates during European business hours, assisting with technical setup and troubleshooting. Outside these hours, our AI-powered assistant Seneca is available 24/7 to provide knowledgeable guidance and help resolve most inquiries just as effectively.

• What happens during technical issues or platform downtime?

  In rare cases of technical issues, our engineering team works to resolve disruptions promptly while maintaining communication with affected users. The platform employs redundant systems and monitoring to minimize downtime. During any service interruption, your funds remain secure on your exchange account, and you retain full control to manage positions manually if needed.

• Are there educational resources for learning to use the platform?

  Yes. You can find most of our educational materials in our blog and knowledge base. These include setup guides, strategy explanations, and best practices to help you understand Stoic AI’s technology, interpret performance metrics, and get the most out of the platform—no matter your trading experience.

Community & Compliance

• Is there a user community or forum?

  Yes. We host an active community in our Telegram group, where users can ask questions, share their experiences, and exchange views with other members. Joining the discussion is a great way to stay informed about platform updates, market insights, and best practices from fellow investors.

• Is there a referral program?

  Yes. We offer an affiliate program where you can earn 15% of every payment made by users who join through your link—for life. The program is simple, with no tiers or complex rules.

• Where is the company legally based and who can use it?

  The platform is operated by Cindicator Ltd., registered in Gibraltar. Our service is available to users worldwide, though regulatory restrictions may apply in certain jurisdictions based on local cryptocurrency and financial services regulations. Users are responsible for ensuring compliance with their country's laws regarding cryptocurrency trading. Review the complete Terms of Use.

• Is my personal and financial data secure?

  We implement institutional-grade security protocols including end-to-end encryption, secure API key storage, and restricted access controls. The platform follows industry best practices for data protection and privacy. API keys are stored with limited permissions (trade execution only, no withdrawals), and personal information is protected under strict data governance policies.

Advanced Features

• Can the bot be used for day trading strategies?

  Stoic AI is designed primarily for mid-frequency, risk-managed trading strategies, optimized for consistent performance across market cycles rather than high-frequency day trading. While the bot executes trades automatically 24/7, its strategies—such as Meta, Fixed Income, and Bitcoin Yield—focus on risk-adjusted returns and portfolio stability rather than rapid intraday speculation. For users seeking active day trading, Stoic AI may not be ideal, as its algorithms prioritize robustness and long-term results over ultra-short-term trades.

• What is the Collective Intelligence component?

  Before creating Stoic AI, Cindicator developed a system with over 200,000 financial analysts making market predictions. Analysts were rewarded for accuracy, and the resulting collective intelligence data was transformed into trading indicators. Today, these indicators are used in some of our trading sub-strategies, complementing machine learning and quantitative research to enhance strategy performance and market analysis.

• What makes Stoic.ai different from other crypto bots?

  Unlike many trading bots that hand you a toolbox and expect you to build or fine‑tune the logic yourself, Stoic AI gives you ready‑to‑go, professionally developed trading strategies.
  Here’s how Stoic AI stands out:

  • It’s powered by a quant team with years of crypto strategy development experience — thousands of algorithms tested, millions of data points analysed, and live market deployment since 2017.
  • The platform offers fully automated strategies (such as Meta, Fixed Income, and Stoic AI Crypto Index) that require minimal setup: connect your exchange, pick your strategy, and let the bot run.
  • It avoids complicated configuration and “you build it” models that many bots rely on. Instead, it delivers a “your own quant team” experience.
  • It targets diverse market conditions, not just bullish markets: the Meta strategy is designed to profit even when the market goes down, thanks to its long/short market‑neutral structure.
  • High‑quality research underpins it: over US$10 million invested into R&D and verified live strategy performance across multiple market cycles.

  
  In short: If you’re looking for a bot that just gives you a tool and leaves you to figure out the logic, many bots will do that. But if you want a platform that delivers complete, live‑tested, professionally built strategies with minimal effort — that’s where Stoic AI differentiates itself.

• What is Hybrid Intelligence and how is it used in Stoic AI?

  Hybrid Intelligence is our unique technology that combines collective intelligence from thousands of analysts on our Cindicator platform with machine learning, which enhances this data and transforms it into actionable trading indicators. This technology was developed before Stoic AI, and today, the resulting indicators are used in some of our trading sub-strategies