Best Crypto Exchanges in France

Best Cryptocurrency Exchanges in France

Our team has assessed 28 cryptocurrency trading platforms in France to determine the best options for local investors. This evaluation focused on regulatory compliance with the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF), including the requisite Digital Asset Service Providers License (DASP), user experience, fee structures, supported digital currencies, Euro deposit methods, and features. Below is a comparison table highlighting the top 5 exchanges for French traders.

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1. eToro

eToro is the best cryptocurrency trading platform in France, and it is praised for its reliability and broad selection of financial products. It provides access to over 4,500 assets, including top cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Solana, as well as stocks, commodities, and ETFs, such as the popular Bitcoin ETF, IBIT by Blackrock. This diverse offering enables French investors to expand their portfolios on a single, secure, and regulated platform.

It demonstrates a strong commitment to regulatory compliance in France. It operates with a Digital Asset Service Providers License (DASP) issued by the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF). This dedication to security and adherence to legal standards makes it a reliable trading platform in France, backed by a user base of over 30 million. Thanks to this global accessibility, eToro can be used in French and provides live customer support in the language.

• ‍Fees: eToro uses a variable spread fee model, generally around 1%.
• ‍Supported Assets: Over 4,500 cryptocurrencies, commodities, ETFs and stocks.
• ‍Regulation & Licensing: eToro (Europe) Ltd is registered with the Autorite des Marches Financiers (AMF) as a digital assets services provider (DASP).
• ‍Euro Deposit Methods: SEPA, bank transfers, credit and debit cards.

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2. Bybit

Bybit is a cryptocurrency exchange known for its comprehensive range of over 1,100 digital assets, which can be traded on spot, futures and options markets with up to 100x leverage. It serves over 30 million users across France and 160 other countries and provides free EUR deposits. As a global platform, it has a French interface and live local customer support through live chat, email and social media platforms like Telegram and Discord.

However, it is essential for French traders to understand Bybit's regulatory standing. Despite its global reputation and adherence to international standards, it does not possess a Digital Asset Service Providers License (DASP) from France's Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF). This absence is critical for traders who place high importance on stringent regulatory compliance within France's financial regulations.

• ‍Fees: Maker fee of 0.02% and a taker fee of 0.055% for futures, plus a 0.1% spot trading fee.
• ‍Supported Assets: Over 1,100 digital assets.
• ‍Regulation & Licensing: Holds global licenses, though it lacks an AMF-issued DASP.
• ‍Euro Deposit Methods: SEPA, Wise, Zen, Easybank, Apple Pay, Google Pay, bank transfer, and debit or credit cards.

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3. Kraken

Kraken is favored by institutional investors for its deep liquidity, OTC desk, tight spreads, and extensive offerings. With a significant global presence of 10 million across 190 countries, the exchange caters to a wide range of clients and provides access to over 200 cryptocurrencies. Institutional clients value the market depth and high liquidity offered, which supports the efficient execution of large-volume transactions.

The platform’s dedication to user experience is highlighted by its smooth integration with various EUR deposit options and its dedicated mobile apps for both iOS and Android. This focus on accessibility is complemented by its staking services, which promise substantial annual returns up to 26% APY. Kraken Pro offers a professional trading environment with competitive spreads and enhanced rate limits, all accessible through a dedicated app.

• ‍Fees: 0.016% maker fees and 0.026% taker fees.
• ‍Supported Assets: 200 cryptocurrencies.
• ‍Regulation & Licensing: Complies with European regulatory standards and is in the process of acquiring their DASP license.
• ‍Euro Deposit Methods: SEPA, bank transfers, debit cards and credit cards.

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4. Uphold

Uphold is a great platform for beginners in France, offering a user-friendly interface combined with an impressive global presence. It supports over 250 cryptocurrencies for trading, plus traditional instruments, including 27 fiat currencies and 4 precious metals. This allows its user base of 10 million to invest, store and manage multiple asset classes in one place. Its staking options with returns up to 25% APY on 30 digital currencies further add to its appeal.

Committed to transparency and trust, Uphold meets European regulatory expectations and complies with standards from France's Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF). It provides audited proof-of-reserves, ensuring a 1:1 backing for all digital assets, reinforcing its trustworthiness. Combined with its streamlined experience on both web and mobile platforms, Uphold is an excellent starting point for French newcomers to the crypto world.

• ‍Fees: 1% trading fee and a 1% spread fee.
• ‍Supported Assets: Over 250 digital assets, various precious metals, and fiat currencies.
• ‍Regulation & Licensing: Active in France but has not secured a DASP license from the AMF.
• ‍Euro Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, SEPA, and credit or debit cards.

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5. Gate.io

Gate.io is a digital asset exchange based in Seychelles that serves over 14 million users across 200 countries, including France, and provides a multilingual interface available in French. The platform has the most diverse selection of cryptocurrency worldwide with over 1,700 tokens, offering traders a wide range of options to choose from. Users can take advantage of multiple order types with spot, futures and options markets supported with leverage of 100x supported.

It has a substantial daily trading volume of 8 billion, further cementing its popularity and trustworthiness. The platform meets the specific needs of French users with features like automated trading bots, copy trading services, crypto loans, multiple staking options, a demo account and more. While it serves users globally, French traders should note that they are not directly licensed by the AMF.

• ‍Fees: Maker fees are 0.1%, and taker fees are 0.2%.
• ‍Supported Assets: 1,700 digital assets.
• ‍Regulation & Licensing: Not specifically licensed under France’s Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF), but remains accessible to French investors.
• ‍Euro Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, debit cards, credit cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay.

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Is Crypto Regulated in France?

France has taken a proactive approach to blockchain technologies, which is evident in the PACTE Act of 2019. This act set a solid framework for Digital Asset Service Providers (DASPs) and Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs). It marks an essential step in regulating the crypto market by outlining that exchanges must be registered with the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF). This focus on registration and compliance shows France's dedication to fostering secure activities.

DASPs in France must register with the AMF, especially if they offer services like digital asset custody or operate trading platforms. This regulation ensures a secure trading environment, with strict penalties for non-compliance. Consequently, France boasts a robust ecosystem of registered DASPs, reinforcing its status as a regulated and welcoming place for cryptocurrency activities.

France's regulatory framework is continually evolving. Enhanced registration requirements and licenses for DASPs are strengthening the AMF's oversight and enforcement capabilities. This dynamic environment, set to align with upcoming EU-wide regulations like MiCA, ensures France remains committed to a safe, transparent, and regulated digital asset market. This reflects the country's dedication to financial innovation while ensuring consumer protection.

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How is Crypto Taxed in France?

The Direction Générale Des Finances Publiques (DGFIP) oversees cryptocurrency taxation in France. Individual traders pay a flat 30% tax on net capital gains from digital assets, while professionals and miners are subject to a progressive tax scale under the BNC category, with possible rates up to 60%. This tiered structure, effective since January 1, 2023, reflects DGFIP's detailed approach to different crypto activities.

Most cryptocurrency transactions are exempt from VAT according to DGFIP and European Union Court of Justice guidelines, including exchanges for goods, services, or traditional currencies, and the random nature of mining rewards. This regulatory stance ensures a clear, structured tax framework for individuals and businesses engaging in cryptocurrency transactions within France's financial system.

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Bottom Line

In conclusion, France's proactive approach to cryptocurrency regulation and robust financial oversight make it an attractive environment for digital asset trading. Supported by the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF), several top exchanges offer a secure and diversified trading experience to French investors. Platforms like eToro, Bybit, Kraken, Uphold, and Gate.io provide a range of options tailored to meet various trading needs.