What is Bitcoin self-custody?

Self-custody bitcoin means you personally control the private keys to your Bitcoin, without relying on any third party. When you self-custody, no exchange, bank, or company can freeze, seize, or lose your funds — often summarized as "not your keys, not your coins." Self-custody bitcoin gives you full sovereignty over your assets, but it also means you are solely responsible for keeping your keys safe, backed up, and protected from loss or theft.