Best Crypto Exchanges in Belgium
Discover the best crypto exchanges in Belgium, chosen for their security, ease of use, and compliance with FSMA regulations.
Summary: In Belgium, investing in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies mainly occurs on exchanges overseen by the Financial Services and Markets Authority (FSMA) or similar European regulators. These platforms support Euro deposits through SEPA transfers, card payments, and electronic wallets.
Our detailed analysis identifies the top 5 exchanges in Belgium, selected for their dependability and adherence to market regulations. These platforms are tailored to meet the needs of Belgian investors, offering secure and user-friendly services that comply with local and European standards.
Get the daily newsletter keeping 200,000 investors ahead of the market.
Best Cryptocurrency Exchange Belgium
After reviewing more than 20 exchanges, we've pinpointed the top five that stand out for investors in Belgium. Our selection process was rigorous, focusing on compliance with the Financial Services and Markets Authority (FSMA) or similar European bodies, the diversity of available cryptocurrencies, user-friendliness, Euro (EUR) deposit methods, and fee schedules. For Belgians keen on finding an exchange that matches their crypto investment ambitions, our carefully crafted list offers essential guidance.
1. Bybit
Bybit reigns as Belgium's top cryptocurrency exchange, perfectly catering to local investors' needs. It offers an expansive selection of over 1,000 cryptocurrencies, all within a secure framework that adheres to regulatory compliance. To simplify investments, Bybit incorporates widely-used local payment methods, including bank transfers, credit cards, Bancontact, and Belfius, making the entry into digital currency investments as smooth as possible.
Bybit shines by providing a wide range of trading opportunities. From a vast array of cryptocurrencies to options for staking and futures trading with up to 100x leverage, supported by strong liquidity, the platform addresses various investment strategies, attracting a diverse clientele. With its low fees, a maker fee of 0.01% and a taker fee of 0.06%, a remarkable daily volume exceeding $30 billion, and a global user base of over 20 million, Bybit confidently leads the market.
- Fees: Maintains competitive rates with a maker fee of 0.01% and a taker fee of 0.06%.
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: Offers an extensive portfolio of more than 1,000 digital currencies.
- Regulation & Licensing: Ensures a trusted trading environment in Belgium by adhering to international regulatory standards.
- EUR Deposit Methods: Provides a selection of local payment methods, including bank transfers, Bancontact, Belfius, and digital wallets.
.webp)
2. Uphold
In Belgium, Uphold secures its position as a leading cryptocurrency exchange, distinguished by its offering over 260 digital assets for trading and staking. This platform operates under the oversight of reputable financial authorities, ensuring a secure trading environment for Belgian users. Unlike other platforms, Uphold facilitates swift and cost-effective Euro (EUR) deposits through various methods, including Bank Transfer, SEPA, Credit Card, and Debit Card.
Uphold stands out in the Belgian market for its commitment to transparency and security. It is one of the select exchanges providing an audited proof-of-reserves, showcasing real-time data on customer fund protection and ensuring their assets are always fully backed 1:1. This level of clarity and accountability positions Uphold as a highly secure and trustworthy exchange.
- Fees: 1% trading fee and 1% spread fee.
- Supported Assets: Offers a diverse portfolio of 260 cryptocurrencies and 4 precious metals.
- Regulation & Licensing: Licensed by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and available in Belgium.
- EUR Deposit Methods: Includes SEPA, Bank Transfer, Credit/Debit Card, Google Pay, and Apple Pay, catering to a wide range of user preferences.
3. Kraken
Kraken emerges as the third-best cryptocurrency exchange in Belgium, skillfully meeting the requirements of the institutional crypto market. With trading volumes exceeding $207 billion each quarter, Kraken's popularity throughout Europe is rising, thanks to its platform that supports trading and staking over 250 cryptocurrencies. This includes well-known assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana, as well as an array of emerging tokens.
Kraken's dedication to a superior user experience is evident in its highly-rated mobile apps, accessible via the App Store and Google Play. Belgian investors particularly value the platform's staking services, offering the potential for up to 25% annual rewards (APY). Kraken Pro, designed for professional trading, appeals to Belgium's sophisticated trading and institutional investors with its tight spreads, extensive liquidity, and high deposit limits, solidifying Kraken's position as a dependable exchange.
- Fees: 0.01% for Maker Orders and 0.02% for Taker Orders.
- Supported Assets: Over 200 spot markets and more than 100 markets with margin trading options.
- Regulation & Licensing: Complies with European financial regulations, ensuring a secure trading environment.
- EUR Deposit Methods: Supports a variety of deposit methods, including SEPA transfers, Bank Transfers, Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and more.
4. OKX
OKX secures its place as the fourth-best cryptocurrency exchange in Belgium, especially notable for its DeFi composability. The platform boasts a selection of over 300 crypto assets, extending its offerings beyond basic spot trading to include futures, options, and margin trading. A standout feature for Belgian DeFi enthusiasts is the OKX Wallet, which offers seamless integration with DeFi protocols like AAVE and Uniswap, enabling higher staking yields.
Based in Seychelles and adhering to its regulatory framework, OKX remains fully accessible in Belgium. It is particularly suited for institutional traders and those keen on DeFi, thanks to its robust API capabilities, top-tier liquidity, and web3 protocol compatibility.
- Fees: OKX's competitive fee structure includes a 0.1% maker fee and a 0.2% taker fee, with a standard 0.1% fee for spot trading.
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: Offers over 300 digital assets, encompassing futures and leveraged trading options.
- Regulation & Licensing: While headquartered in Seychelles, OKX aligns with European financial regulations, ensuring a secure trading environment for Belgian users.
- EUR Deposit Methods: SEPA transfers, debit cards, credit cards, Apple Pay and more.
.webp)
5. Gate.io
Gate.io establishes itself as the fifth-best cryptocurrency exchange in Belgium, particularly distinguished for its vast altcoin offerings. This platform is notable for its extensive range of over 1,700 cryptocurrencies, positioning it as a top choice for those interested in trading a diverse array of digital assets. Gate.io's appeal in the Belgian market is enhanced by its zero trading fee feature for select purchases.
With a significant 24-hour trading volume and a user base surpassing 14 million, Gate.io showcases its capability and popularity in the global crypto landscape. The platform also introduces unique features like trading bots and a dedicated startup section, offering Belgian users various engaging market opportunities like special trading events and competitions.
- Fees: Gate.io has competitive fees, starting at 0.1% for maker orders and 0.2% for taker orders.
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: Offers an impressive selection of over 1,700 digital assets.
- Regulation & Licensing: Based offshore in the Seychelles and not directly licensed in Belgium, but available for users.
- EUR Deposit Methods: SEPA transfers and credit cards.
Is Crypto Regulated in Belgium?
In Belgium, cryptocurrency regulation primarily focuses on anti-money laundering, adhering to the EU's Fifth Money Laundering Directive. Virtual asset service providers must register with the Financial Services and Markets Authority (FSMA) if they have a Belgian establishment. While specific financial regulations for cryptocurrencies aren't established, they may fall under existing financial laws on a case-by-case basis.
Key activities like cryptocurrency exchange and custody are regulated, whereas borrowing, lending, and yield/staking are not explicitly covered but could be subject to financial or consumer credit regulations. Establishing a cryptoasset business or obtaining a license in Belgium typically involves a 3 to 5-month process with regulatory fees of up to 8,000 EUR.
Despite these measures, cryptocurrencies are not yet comprehensively regulated in Belgium, and they are not recognized as legal tender. The National Bank of Belgium and the FSMA have issued risk warnings, but there are signs of an evolving legal framework that may offer more extensive regulation in the future.
How is Crypto Taxed in Belgium?
In Belgium, the Special Tax Inspectorate (STI) oversees the taxation of cryptocurrencies, typically treating income or gains from cryptocurrency transactions as "miscellaneous income," which is subject to tax. This approach aligns with the limited specific guidance available in Belgium regarding cryptocurrency taxation. While the FSMA called for digital currency regulation in 2020, comprehensive tax policies or regulations tailored specifically to cryptocurrencies have yet to be fully established.
The European Central Bank (ECB) defines virtual currencies as digital representations of value, not issued by traditional financial institutions. It highlights both the potential risks, such as high volatility and lack of transparency, and advantages, like benefits for cross-border payments, of virtual currency schemes. This broader European perspective informs the evolving regulatory and tax landscape for cryptocurrencies in Belgium.
Bottom Line
To conclude, our meticulous evaluation of over 20 exchanges has spotlighted the top five that excel for Belgian investors, with Bybit leading the pack. This selection, rigorously vetted for compliance with the FSMA and other European standards, ensures investors have access to a wide variety of cryptocurrencies, user-friendly interfaces, and multiple EUR deposit methods, all underpinned by a transparent and fair fee structure. Whether you're stepping into the crypto space for the first time or are an institutional investor, our list is designed to meet your specific needs, aligning with Belgium's regulatory framework and investment landscape.
%20(1)%20(1).webp)
.webp)