Best Crypto Exchanges in Hungary
Summary: Hungary has adopted a clear regulatory approach to crypto, aligning with the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA). The National Bank of Hungary oversees the sector, enforcing compliance and protecting consumers. This clarity has attracted several global exchanges, offering investors secure trading platforms.
Here are five leading exchanges accepting HUF deposits from Hungarian bank accounts:
Kraken is the recommended platform for Hungarian investors as it facilitates HUF deposits, provides low fees and access to a wide range of cryptocurrencies.
Registered as a VASP across Europe
290+ Cryptocurrencies
IBAN, SEPA, Cards & Bank Transfers
Top Crypto Trading Platforms in Hungary
We conducted a review of the 19 platforms available in Hungary. Our evaluation considered compliance with the National Bank of Hungary regulations, HUF deposit options, the variety of cryptocurrencies offered, trading fees, and platform features. Below is a comparison of the top five digital asset exchanges for Hungarian investors.
1. Kraken
Kraken is Hungary's top crypto exchange, serving over 10 million users across Europe and accepting deposits in HUF. It supports over 290 cryptocurrencies, enabling users to engage in spot trading, margin trading, and futures contracts with up to 5x leverage. Kraken Pro offers advanced tools such as order book insights, customizable charts and a demo account.
Additionally, institutional clients benefit from over-the-counter (OTC) services and secure staking options. The platform prioritizes security with cold storage, two-factor authentication, and regular Proof of Reserves audits. The simple interface makes it ideal for beginners, while professional traders can leverage its rich ecosystem for complex trading strategies.
- Fees: Maker fees start at 0.16%, and taker fees are at 0.26%.
- Supported Assets: Over 290 cryptocurrencies.
- Regulation & Licensing: Complies with EU regulations under MiCA and is approved to operate in Hungary.
- HUF Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, SEPA transfers, and credit/debit cards.
2. Uphold
Uphold offers multi-asset trading and a firm commitment to transparency through its 1:1 Proof-of-Reserves policy. This ensures that every user's assets are fully backed at all times and always withdrawable. Hungarian investors can trade seamlessly across crypto, fiat currencies and precious metals using Uphold's "anything-to-anything" trading model.
The platform provides advanced features like staking, which allows users to earn up to 28% APY in rewards on 30 digital assets, and the Uphold Debit Card, enabling spending of holdings in real-time. It offers enterprise-grade tools for institutional clients and Vault for extra security. Additionally, its carbon-neutral trading initiative resonates with environmentally conscious users.
- Fees: Trading fees vary between 0.8% - 1.2% depending on the asset.
- Supported Assets: Over 300 cryptocurrencies, 27 fiat currencies and 4 precious metals.
- Regulation & Licensing: Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and available in Hungary.
- HUF Deposit Methods: Bank transfer, credit cards, debit cards, Google Pay and Apple Pay.
3. Binance
Binance is the largest exchange globally, and it has cemented its place as a top choice for traders in Hungary. The platform offers unmatched liquidity and supports over 350 assets. Beyond spot trading, it provides advanced services such as margin trading, futures contracts, staking, copy trading, and automated investment plans through its Auto-Invest feature.
It goes beyond traditional crypto services by integrating with the Web3 ecosystem via its Binance Wallet and supporting the Binance Smart Chain for decentralized applications. It also features an NFT marketplace and a Launchpad that enables participation in token sales, giving users access to promising blockchain projects. The platform can also be used in Hungarian.
- Fees: Maker and taker fees start as low as 0.1%.
- Supported Assets: Over 350 cryptocurrencies.
- Regulation & Licensing: Operates under MiCA compliance and is available in Hungary.
- HUF Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, SEPA payments, credit cards, debit cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay.
4. Bitpanda
Bitpanda is a premier platform for trading cryptocurrencies, stocks, ETFs, and precious metals. Its unique features, such as the Bitpanda Crypto Index (BCI), enable investors to diversify effortlessly by automatically rebalancing their portfolios across top-performing assets. Additionally, the platform supports savings plans for automated recurring investments.
For advanced traders, Bitpanda provides features like leveraged trading and limit orders, along with real-time pricing tools. The Bitpanda Card enables users to spend their digital assets anywhere Mastercard is accepted while staking services allow users to earn rewards on their crypto holdings. It also features the Bitpanda Spotlight and the Bitpanda Cash Plus product.
- Fees: Fees start at 0.5%, with discounts available for BEST token holders.
- Supported Assets: Over 3,000 cryptocurrencies, stocks, ETFs, and metals.
- Regulation & Licensing: Compliant with MiCA standards and available in Hungary.
- HUF Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, credit cards, debit cards, and e-wallets like Skrill and Neteller.
5. Gate.io
Gate.io is a leading exchange in Hungary, popular for its vast selection of over 2,900 cryptocurrencies. The platform provides comprehensive trading options, such as spot and futures trading, with advanced features like grid trading, martingale strategies, and strategy bots. There is also copy trading, enabling beginners to replicate the strategies of experienced traders.
It offers extensive earning opportunities through Simple Earn, staking, and Auto-Investment plans that allow users to earn passive income on their holdings. The Crypto Loan feature caters to users needing liquidity without selling their assets, this provides both lending and borrowing options with up to 24% APY.
- Fees: Maker and taker fees start at 0.2%.
- Supported Assets: Over 2,900 cryptocurrencies.
- Regulation & Licensing: Not regulated in Europe but is available in Hungary.
- HUF Deposit Methods: Credit or debit cards
Is Crypto Regulated in Hungary?
Hungary has taken significant steps to regulate crypto, aligning with the upcoming EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) Regulation. The Markets in Crypto-Assets Act, introduced in 2024, is enforced by the National Bank of Hungary, which serves as the primary authority overseeing crypto-asset service providers and issuers of asset-referenced or e-money tokens.
This legislation mirrors EU-wide regulations while incorporating Hungary’s provisions to clarify operational requirements for entities within the country. These local measures outline the authorization process, notification protocols, and applicable fees, providing a structured and transparent environment for crypto businesses.
The MNB plays a critical role in ensuring compliance, safeguarding consumers, and encouraging innovation in the digital asset space. Hungary’s adoption of the MiCA framework has also replaced older regulatory structures.
How is Crypto Taxed in Hungary?
Hungary has established a favorable tax framework for crypto, distinguishing between individual and business activities. The Hungarian National Tax and Customs Administration (NAV) states that for private individuals, income derived from crypto transactions is subject to a flat 15% personal income tax, with no additional social contributions required.
This rate applies when cryptocurrencies are exchanged for fiat currency or other assets; however, crypto-to-crypto exchanges are not taxable events. Businesses engaged in activities such as professional trading, mining, or blockchain services are subject to a corporate tax rate of 9%, one of the lowest in the European Union.
How to Buy Bitcoin in Hungary
Purchasing Bitcoin in Hungary is a simple process, thanks to a supportive regulatory framework and the availability of platforms that accept Hungarian Forint (HUF) deposits. Here’s a breakdown of the BTC investment process:
- Select a Trusted Exchange: Start by choosing a reputable platform that operates in Hungary and supports HUF transactions.
- Create an Account: Visit the exchange's website or app and sign up by providing your personal details. Complete the Know Your Customer (KYC) process by submitting valid ID and proof of address.
- Deposit Funds: Once verified, log into your account and navigate to the deposit section. Choose HUF as your currency and select your preferred payment method. Enter the amount you wish to deposit and confirm the transaction.
- Buy Bitcoin (BTC): After funding your account, head to the trading or buy/sell section. Search for Bitcoin and select the HUF/BTC trading pair. Input the amount you want to invest, review the transaction details, and confirm your purchase.
Transfer your purchased Bitcoin to a personal wallet for enhanced security. Hardware wallets or software wallets give you greater control and reduce reliance on exchanges.
Bottom Line
Hungary is a significant player in the crypto sector, with the National Bank of Hungary (MNB) overseeing the regulation of digital asset platforms. Leading exchanges such as Kraken, Uphold, Binance, Bitpanda, and Gate.io provide Hungarian users with access to a diverse range of cryptocurrencies and advanced trading tools.
These platforms offer features like high-leverage trading options, comprehensive security protocols, support for Hungarian Forint deposits, and attractive staking programs.