Understanding Proof of Reserves (PoR) Snapshot Data and Account Balance Differences

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Proof of Reserves (PoR) has become a cornerstone of transparency in the cryptocurrency ecosystem, offering users verifiable assurance that their assets are fully backed. Platforms like OKX have implemented PoR systems with regular asset snapshots to provide cryptographic proof of user holdings. However, discrepancies between your visible account balance and the PoR snapshot data can sometimes arise—especially if you're engaged in advanced trading or lending activities.

This guide explains why such differences occur, how they’re calculated, and what they mean for your overall portfolio value—all while maintaining full accuracy and clarity.

Why Do My Account Assets Differ From the PoR Snapshot?

If you notice a mismatch between your displayed assets on the "My Portfolio" page and the values reflected in the Proof of Reserves snapshot, it's likely due to margin trading positions or crypto loans taken from your Grow account.

The key distinction lies in how these two systems calculate net equity:

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For example:

These structural differences explain most variances—but crucially, the total USD value remains consistent across both calculations.

Does a Discrepancy Mean My Account Is Worth Less?

No. Even when crypto amounts differ between your portfolio view and the PoR snapshot, the total USD-equivalent equity is identical.

Let’s illustrate this with an example:

Suppose you borrow 3 ETH at $1,100 each and sell them for 3,300 USDT.

When combined, these offset perfectly in USD terms. The snapshot accounts for both sides of the transaction, ensuring full accountability.

Thus, while individual cryptocurrency balances may appear higher or lower in the snapshot, your net worth remains unchanged—it's simply represented more comprehensively.

How Margin Trading Modes Affect PoR Calculations

Different margin trading modes impact how assets and liabilities are structured—and therefore how they appear in PoR snapshots. Let’s explore three primary modes supported on OKX:

Supported Margin Trading Modes

Each mode handles collateral, debt, and profit/loss tracking differently, which affects reconciliation with PoR data.

How to Check Your Account Mode

Navigate to:
Trade > Settings > Account Mode
Here, you can also switch between Auto Transfer and Quick Margin under Isolated Margin settings.

Now let’s examine how each mode influences asset calculations.

Case 1: Cross Margin Mode

Initial Assets:

You open a long position: Buy 10 ETH at $1,087.24 using ETH as collateral. After fees, you hold 9.99 ETH from the trade.

In Your Portfolio View:

In PoR Snapshot:

Despite apparent imbalances in crypto units, the USD net value matches exactly when liabilities are subtracted from assets.

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Case 2: Isolated Margin (Auto Transfers)

You open an isolated position with 1 ETH as margin, buying 10 ETH at $1,406.93.

After execution:

Portfolio Equity:

PoR Snapshot:

Again, crypto amounts differ—but USD valuation reconciles to zero difference.

Case 3: Isolated Margin (Quick Margin)

You manually transfer 10 ETH to an isolated position and buy another 10 ETH using leverage.

Post-trade:

Result:
Both portfolio equity and PoR snapshot show:

✅ Complete alignment—because Quick Margin explicitly separates position assets/liabilities upfront.

This demonstrates that only certain modes create visible discrepancies, but none affect actual value.

Grow Account Loans and Their Impact on PoR

Crypto-backed loans via the Grow account also influence PoR reporting.

Example: Taking a Loan Against Staked Assets

Initial State:

You stake 5,000 USDT as collateral and borrow 0.1 BTC.

Post-Loan View in Portfolio:

Note: This equity value = Collateral (5,000 USDT) – Loan Value (~1,577.23 USDT)

PoR Snapshot Reflects Reality Fully:

Total net:
→ 5,000 USDT (no BTC net change)

While your dashboard may display fractional equity, the PoR captures the full picture—including obligations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Are PoR snapshots audited by third parties?

Yes. OKX conducts regular third-party audits of its Proof of Reserves data to ensure accuracy and transparency. These reports are publicly accessible and cryptographically verifiable.

Q2: Should I worry if my ETH balance looks much higher in the PoR than in my wallet?

No—this typically reflects open margin positions where borrowed assets create offsetting liabilities. Always check USD-equivalent totals for true valuation.

Q3: Can I use my Grow account collateral elsewhere?

No. Assets pledged as loan collateral are locked and cannot be withdrawn or used for other purposes until the loan is repaid.

Q4: Why does the PoR include negative balances?

Negative values represent liabilities (e.g., borrowed crypto). Including them ensures full transparency about obligations tied to leveraged positions or loans.

Q5: How often are PoR snapshots taken?

Snapshots are generated periodically (often daily or weekly) to capture real-time liabilities and assets across all user accounts.

Q6: Does a discrepancy mean my funds aren't safe?

Absolutely not. Discrepancies stem from accounting differences—not missing funds. The system ensures every liability is backed by real collateral.

Final Thoughts

Understanding Proof of Reserves snapshot data empowers you to make informed decisions about your digital assets. While variations between your visible balance and PoR figures may seem concerning at first glance, they reflect deeper financial mechanics—not inaccuracies.

Whether you're margin trading or borrowing against staked assets, the system is designed to preserve full accountability.

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