Self Custody Shift

Definition ∞ A Self Custody Shift describes a trend where cryptocurrency holders move their digital assets from centralized exchanges or third-party custodians to wallets they control directly. This movement is often motivated by a desire for greater security, privacy, and full control over one’s funds. It reduces reliance on intermediaries and their associated risks. This shift aligns with the decentralized principles of cryptocurrency.
Context ∞ The self custody shift frequently gains prominence after incidents involving centralized exchange failures or security breaches, reinforcing the “not your keys, not your crypto” adage. Discussions revolve around the tools and educational resources available for secure self-custody. Observing this trend provides insight into evolving user behavior and trust dynamics within the digital asset ecosystem.