Foundation (Passport) vs Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans)
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Foundation (Passport) vs Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans): What the Data Shows
Foundation (Passport) (dedicated custody) and Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans) (yield and lending) serve different corners of the Bitcoin ecosystem, but the question that matters most is the same: who controls the keys? In our scoring model, Foundation (Passport) holds a commanding lead at 82/100 (A-) compared to Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans) at 62/100 (C+). That 20-point gap reflects real, measurable differences in how each platform handles custody, fees, and transparency.
Where Each Platform Wins
Custody and security — the most heavily weighted category in our methodology at 35% — tilts 37 points toward Foundation (Passport) (85 vs. 48). Foundation (Passport) eliminates single points of failure in its custody architecture, while Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans) relies on a model where one compromised entity could put your bitcoin at risk. On fees, Foundation (Passport) wins by 22 points. Foundation (Passport) charges ~$200 compared to 7-12% APR at Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans). Over a multi-year holding period, fee differences compound — a point worth considering for long-term accumulators.
The Custody Question
Here's the key difference: Foundation (Passport) has no single point of failure (Hardware Wallet), while Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans) does (Qualified Custodian Collateral). This matters because a single-point-of-failure model means one compromised entity — whether through a hack, insolvency, or government action — could result in total loss of funds. History has proven this risk is not theoretical. FTX, Celsius, and BlockFi all represented single points of failure for their users.
Bottom Line
Foundation (Passport) is the clear choice here, outscoring Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans) by 20 points across our six-category methodology. Keep in mind these platforms target different audiences — Foundation (Passport) is built for bitcoin purists, while Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans) serves hnw borrowers. One thing to watch with Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans): single custodian for collateral. liquidation risk. premium rates.. The data speaks for itself — but always verify our methodology and do your own due diligence before moving bitcoin to any platform.
Which is better, Foundation (Passport) or Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans)?
Based on our six-category scoring methodology, Foundation (Passport) scores higher at 82/100 compared to 62/100. The biggest differentiator is custody security, which accounts for 35% of the overall score. However, the right choice depends on your individual needs — review the category breakdown above.
Is Foundation (Passport) safe for storing Bitcoin?
Foundation (Passport) scored 85/100 on custody and security in our methodology. It has no single point of failure, distributing custody across multiple entities. Its custody model is classified as Hardware Wallet. Always verify these details and do your own research.
Does Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans) have a single point of failure?
Yes. Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans) uses a Qualified Custodian Collateral model, which means a single compromised entity could put your bitcoin at risk. This is a structural concern for long-term holders.
What are the fees for Foundation (Passport) vs Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans)?
Foundation (Passport) charges ~$200. Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans) charges 7-12% APR. Foundation (Passport) scored 90/100 on fees versus 68/100 for Arch (Bitcoin-Backed Loans) in our methodology.