Peer-to-peer (P2P) trading means buying and selling directly between people, instead of through a bank or a central store. It powers everything from classified ads to modern crypto marketplaces like CryptoLarz.
The problem P2P has to solve: trust
If you pay a stranger first, what stops them from disappearing? If they ship first, what stops you? P2P platforms solve this with two tools:
- Escrow — a neutral hold on the payment until both sides do their part.
- Reputation — ratings and completed-trade history so you can see who is reliable before you deal with them.
A typical P2P trade
- Buyer pays into escrow.
- Seller delivers the goods.
- Buyer confirms; escrow releases payment.
Ready to try it? Browse the marketplace or create a free account.