The Bitcoin Cash (BCH) network is approaching a significant hard fork upgrade, scheduled for November 15. This event has sparked intense debate within the community, primarily between two competing factions: Bitcoin ABC and Bitcoin SV.
With the potential creation of a new forked coin, BCH holders are eagerly watching how exchanges and wallets will handle the situation. This guide covers the latest developments, exchange positions, and what users can expect.
Understanding the Bitcoin Cash Hard Fork
A hard fork occurs when a blockchain undergoes a protocol change that is not backward-compatible. This results in a permanent split, creating two separate chains. In the case of Bitcoin Cash, the two proposed chains are:
- Bitcoin ABC (Adjustable Blocksize Cap): Supported by Bitmain and Roger Ver.
- Bitcoin SV (Satoshi’s Vision): Led by Craig Wright and nChain.
The key point of contention is the lack of replay protection—a safety feature that prevents transactions from being valid on both chains simultaneously. Without it, users risk transaction replay attacks and network instability.
Taiwan Exchange Positions: MAX and BitoPro
MAX Exchange’s Stance
MAX Exchange has announced it will not support Bitcoin SV due to security concerns. They believe Bitcoin SV’s approach bypasses proper blockchain governance and introduces unnecessary risks.
Users wishing to claim BSV (the potential new coin) must move their BCH to a supporting platform before the fork. MAX will only support the Bitcoin ABC chain.
BitoPro’s Approach
BitoPro, on the other hand, will support both chains. Users holding BCH on BitoPro at the time of the fork will receive BSV tokens on a 1:1 basis if the new chain is created.
Both exchanges will suspend BCH deposits and withdrawals on November 15 until the network stabilizes.
Current Network Status and Mining Power
As of the latest data, Bitcoin SV appears to have a significant advantage in mining hash rate. Estimates suggest 66–77% of BCH miners support SV, while ABC has 18–29% support.
Major mining pools like CoinGeek and SVPool (both controlled by Craig Wright) are backing SV. However, mining support can shift quickly based on profitability, so the situation remains fluid.
Despite SV’s hash rate lead, pre-fork trading on platforms like Poloniex shows stronger investor interest in ABC. At the time of writing, ABC is trading around $393, while SV is at $107.
Risks and Considerations for Users
The lack of replay protection means users should exercise extreme caution. Transferring BCH during the fork could lead to unintended transactions on both chains.
If you hold BCH in a private wallet, ensure you control your private keys. After the fork, use tools to split your coins safely. For exchange users, follow your platform’s guidelines carefully.
👉 Explore secure trading strategies for hard forks
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a hard fork?
A hard fork is a radical protocol change that creates a permanent divergence in a blockchain. It requires all nodes to upgrade to the new version; otherwise, they remain on the old chain.
Will I get free coins from the fork?
If you hold BCH at the time of the fork, you may receive BSV tokens on a 1:1 basis—but only if your exchange or wallet supports the SV chain. Check with your service provider for confirmation.
Which chain will be called Bitcoin Cash?
The chain with the most accumulated proof-of-work (hash rate) will likely retain the BCH ticker. However, exchanges may use different naming conventions initially.
What is replay protection?
Replay protection is a feature that prevents transactions from being valid on both chains after a fork. Its absence in the BCH fork increases risk for users.
Can I trade during the fork?
Most exchanges will suspend BCH deposits and withdrawals during the fork. Trading may still be available, but it carries higher risk due to volatility and uncertainty.
Should I move my BCH to an exchange?
Only if your exchange supports the chain you’re interested in. If you want BSV, move to a supporting exchange. Otherwise, holding in a private wallet (with proper splitting tools) is safer.
Conclusion
The Bitcoin Cash hard fork represents a critical moment for the network. With strong disagreements between development teams and uncertain outcomes, users should prioritize security and stay informed.
Follow your exchange’s instructions, avoid unnecessary transactions during the fork, and use trusted tools for managing forked assets. The situation may evolve rapidly, so keep an eye on official updates from reliable sources.