Can I Buy Bitcoin with La Banque Postale?

‍Yes, La Banque Postale allows its customers to invest in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies by facilitating transfers to French platforms regulated by the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF). Customers can fund their crypto exchange accounts in Euros using various methods, including SEPA transfers, IBAN transfers, standard bank transfers, and debit card payments.

How to Buy Crypto with La Banque Postale

‍Investing in cryptocurrency with La Banque Postale is straightforward, especially when using regulated platforms like Kraken, which is registered as a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP). The platform supports EUR deposits through SEPA, bank transfers, debit and credit cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay.

Below is a quick guide to buying cryptocurrency with La Banque Postale on Kraken:

1. Set Up Your Account: Go to Kraken's official site and create a new account. Complete the identity verification process to satisfy the Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements.
2. Deposit Euros: Head to the 'Funding' section in the dashboard. Choose your preferred deposit method, SEPA, and initiate a transfer from your La Banque Postale account.
3. Select Your Cryptocurrency: Once the funds appear in your account, explore the available options on the platform to find the cryptocurrency you wish to purchase, and make sure to set Euro as your currency.
4. Execute Your Trade: Input the amount of cryptocurrency you want to buy, review the transaction details carefully, and complete the purchase to finish your trade.

What are the Fees?

When buying crypto on exchanges, knowing the costs involved is essential. These generally include fees for deposits, trading, and withdrawals. For La Banque Postale users, Kraken's fee structure is appealing, with no charges for Euro deposits.

Kraken’s spot trading fees start at 0.16%, while futures trading ranges from 0.02% for makers to 0.05% for takers, which is significantly cheaper than platforms like Coinbase, where fees can go above 2%.

Keep in mind that withdrawal fees vary depending on the crypto you're moving, so it's worth checking those costs beforehand to avoid surprises.

La Banque Postale Cryptocurrency Policy

La Banque Postale permits customers to transfer funds to crypto exchanges registered as Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) with the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF) in France. The bank is adheres to the upcoming EU Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) regulatory framework. 

Additionally, the PACTE Act, introduced in France in 2019, provides a legal structure for Digital Asset Service Providers (DASPs) and initial coin offerings (ICOs), reinforcing compliance standards in the crypto sector.

About La Banque Postale

La Banque Postale, launched in 2006 as part of France's La Poste, plays a key role in French banking, offering services for individuals, businesses, and the public sector. 

Known for its popular Livret A savings account and a variety of loans for personal and home financing, the bank also provides insurance options through La Banque Postale Assurances, covering life, health, and property.

Bottom Line

La Banque Postale clients can buy crypto by transferring Euros to AMF-regulated exchanges such as Kraken. It supports over 280 digital assets for both spot and futures trading. With French language support, Kraken is a great choice for local investors.

Before diving in, take the time to review the fees associated with the exchange you plan to use, ensuring it aligns with your budget and trading needs.