TL;DR: CoinTracking supports two portfolio tracking methods: "Overall Based" (recommended) and "Exchange Based". The overall method gives you a clear view of your profits and expenses, while the exchange method mirrors the balances on each individual exchange. Choose one method and apply it consistently—mixing both can lead to incorrect totals.
1) Overall Based (Recommended)
This method shows your total balance along with your actual expenses.
Important: Do not track deposits and withdrawals in your base fiat currency (e.g., USD, EUR).
Example:
You deposit $1000 to Kraken and buy 1 BTC for $1000. Only enter the trade.
Result:
+1 BTC (= $1000)
-1000 USD (= $1000 spent)
Total = $0
The USD balance appears negative because it reflects your expenses, not your current exchange balance.
Now, if you later sell the BTC for $1650:
0 BTC
+650 USD profit
Total = $650
This method clearly shows profit and loss from crypto trading.
2) Exchange Based
This approach replicates your actual exchange balances—FIAT and crypto included.
Example:
You deposit $1000 to Kraken and buy 1 BTC for $1000. Enter both the deposit and the trade.
Result:
+1 BTC (= $1000)
0 USD remaining
Total = $1000
Selling your BTC later for $1650:
0 BTC
+1650 USD
Total = $1650
This method reflects balances shown on your exchange but ignores fiat cash outflow, which can distort profit analysis.
Choosing a Method
You can use either method, but never mix both—doing so can produce misleading totals.
There is no switch or toggle to change the tracking method. It all depends on how you enter fiat deposits.
Note About API Imports
By default, API imports exclude fiat deposits and withdrawals. You can adjust this setting during the API setup or later via the EDIT button in your API job settings.
Summary:
Overall method = best for profit/loss clarity.
Exchange method = best for matching account balances.
Do not mix methods.
API settings can be customized to include/exclude fiat movements.
Choose the strategy that matches your reporting goals and be consistent for accurate tracking.