> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.arcus.xyz/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# How is Arcus different from a CEX? 

* **Non custodial:** Users retain control of their funds at all times, minimizing exchange solvency and counterparty risks.
* **Asset access:** One account spans Stock Tokens (on-chain instruments 1:1 backed by the underlying equity) and cross-margined perps across equities, crypto, commodities, and indices, all settled on-chain.
* **Transparency:** Trade executions, liquidations, and insurance fund balances are validated by a high performance blockchain, and publicly auditable in real time.