Best Crypto Exchanges in Morocco

Best Cryptocurrency Exchanges in Morocco

Following an extensive evaluation of the 16 digital asset trading platforms available in Morocco, we found the top options for residents. Our analysis focused on their compliance with Moroccan regulatory standards, supported cryptocurrencies, MAD deposit options, features and services, and fee structures. Here is a detailed comparison table of the top five exchanges for Moroccan investors.

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1. Bybit

Bybit is the leading exchange for derivatives trading in Morocco, offering hundreds of futures and options markets with leverage of up to 100x. There are more than 1,200 cryptocurrencies to buy and trade on spot markets. With a user base of 32 million and daily trading volumes exceeding $25 billion, Bybit is one of the most liquid platforms globally. 

The exchange also provides lending and borrowing options, staking features, copy trading services, an NFT marketplace, and a crypto card. Bybit ensures security and transparency through regular 1:1 proof-of-reserves audits, reassuring users that their funds are fully backed. Its multilingual interface supports Arabic, French, English, and 20 other languages.

• Fees: 0.02% maker fee, 0.055% taker fee for futures. Spot trading is 0.1%.
• Supported Assets: Over 1,200 digital assets.
• Regulation & Licensing: Regulated by CySEC and other global authorities and is available in Morocco.‍
• MAD Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, electronic payments, credit cards, debit cards, AirTM and Wise.

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2. Binance

Binance is the top choice for institutional investors in Morocco, known for its extensive range of 350 cryptocurrencies and multiple order types, including spot, futures and options markets. The platform supports large-volume trades and offers tools like futures and margin trading with significant leverage of up to 100x. 

Its robust security measures, including two-factor authentication and cold storage, provide a safe environment for high-stakes trading. The exchange also offers staking, savings accounts, and a launchpad for new crypto projects. Its comprehensive customer support and multilingual platform make it accessible to Moroccan users.

• Fees: Spot trading fees start at 0.1%.
• Supported Assets: Over 350 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Operates in compliance with Moroccan financial regulations.‍
• MAD Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, credit cards and debit cards.

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3. Gate.io

Gate.io has the most diverse selection of cryptocurrencies in the world, making it ideal for traders looking to diversify their portfolios. There are more than 2,100 digital assets to buy, sell and trade with competitive fees. The platform supports spot and margin trading, futures, and even a startup investment platform. 

With a significant daily trading volume of over $5 billion, Gate.io serves a vast global user community exceeding 16 million. It ensures high security with features like cold storage and regular security audits. Additionally, it offers lending, borrowing, and staking services, as well as an NFT marketplace.

• Fees: 0.1% for maker orders and 0.2% for taker orders.
• Supported Assets: More than 2,100 digital currencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Not regulated in Morocco but available to residents.‍
• MAD Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, Apple Pay, credit cards and debit cards.

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4. Kraken

Kraken is known for its transparency and security, making it a trusted exchange for Moroccan users. The platform regularly publishes its proof-of-reserves, ensuring users that their funds are fully backed. Kraken supports a wide range of 250 cryptocurrencies and offers advanced trading features, including futures and margin trading. 

The exchange also provides staking services, an OTC desk for large trades, and educational resources for traders of all levels. Its multilingual support and strong security measures, like two-factor authentication and cold storage, make it a reliable choice for Moroccan investors and traders.

• Fees: Maker fees start as low as 0.01%, with taker fees at 0.02%.
• Supported Assets: Over 250 spot markets and more than 100 margin markets.
• Regulation & Licensing: Fully compliant with international regulatory standards.‍
• MAD Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, electronic payment systems, and debit or credit cards.

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5. MEXC

MEXC is the leading exchange for high-leverage trading in Morocco, offering up to 200x leverage on over 300 futures contracts. The platform supports a broad range of 800 digital currencies and provides additional features like staking, lending, and borrowing. 

The platform prioritises security with measures such as cold storage and two-factor authentication. Its user-friendly interface, which can be used in multiple languages, caters to local traders, and it offers 24/7 customer support to assist users. 

• Fees: Maker fees from 0.02% to 0.06% and taker fees between 0.06% and 0.08%.
• Supported Assets: Over 800 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Holds an Estonian license but can be used in Morocco.‍
• MAD Deposit Methods: Bank transfers and debit or credit cards.

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Is Crypto Regulated in Morocco?

‍Morocco is increasingly interested in cryptocurrencies, ranking 13th globally in crypto adoption and second in Africa. Despite an initial ban on crypto possession and trading, 4.9% of the population owned digital assets by 2022. The Central Bank of Morocco (Bank Al-Maghrib) released a draft regulatory bill in January 2023. 

Peer-to-peer trading platforms are popular, with transaction volumes up 120% in 2023. The Moroccan Exchange Office enforces strict regulations, declaring crypto transactions a violation of exchange rules, leading to potential legal penalties. Despite restrictions, Morocco's youth adopt Bitcoin for investment, international payments, and as an alternative to banking services.

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How Is Crypto Taxed in Morocco?

‍As of 2024, Morocco does not have specific taxation laws for cryptocurrencies. The regulatory framework is still under development, and no formal guidelines exist for taxing digital assets. This absence of clear tax regulations creates uncertainty for crypto investors and traders in the country. 

The General Directorate of Taxes continues to monitor the crypto market closely, suggesting that future regulations could include specific tax requirements. Until then, individuals dealing with digital currencies must navigate this uncertain landscape without clear directives on reporting and taxation.

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How to Buy Bitcoin in Morocco

If you're new to cryptocurrency investment, understanding how to purchase Bitcoin through a digital asset exchange in Morocco is essential. Below is a summary of the investing process:

1. Create an Account: Visit the website of a reputable exchange and register for an account. Click on "Sign Up" and complete the verification process by uploading a photo ID and, if required, a selfie or proof of address.
2. Deposit Moroccan Dirhams (MAD): Go to the deposit section of your account, select MAD as your deposit currency, and enter the amount you wish to transfer. Confirm and complete the transaction using your preferred deposit method, such as a bank transfer or credit card.
3. Choose Bitcoin: Search for Bitcoin (BTC) in the trading section. Select the MAD/BTC trading pair to see the current market rate. Review the available trading options, such as market and limit orders.
4. Execute the Trade: Click 'buy' or 'trade' to purchase Bitcoin. Enter the amount of Bitcoin you want to buy or the amount of MAD you wish to spend. Review the order details, including price and fees, then finalize the trade.

This guide provides users in Morocco with a clear path to start trading digital currencies, detailing each step from account creation to completing trades.

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Bottom Line

In conclusion, Morocco is quickly emerging in the global crypto market, supported by improving regulations that enhance transparency, security, and investor protection. Residents can now directly buy digital assets with Moroccan Dirhams on top exchanges like Bybit, Binance, Gate.io, Kraken, and MEXC. These platforms provide diverse trading features, strong security, and a wide range of supported assets.