Can you Buy Crypto with Standard Bank?
Yes, you can invest in Bitcoin and various other cryptocurrencies through Standard Bank by transferring money from your account to a certified digital currency exchange in South Africa. This method allows for prompt deposits of South African Rand (ZAR) to purchase, sell, and trade a wide array of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana, among others, under a regulated structure.
How to Buy Bitcoin and Crypto with Standard Bank
As previously stated, the most efficient way to purchase crypto using a Standard Bank account is through a platform that accepts ZAR deposits via Standard Bank transfers. Upon reviewing the leading exchanges in South Africa, we identified Binance as the optimal choice for Standard Bank depositors due to their rapid ZAR transfers and competitive transaction fees.
Below is a straightforward 4-step guide to get you started with buying crypto using your account:
- Register on the Binance platform and authenticate your account.
- Choose 'Trade' and then the 'P2P' option in the navigation menu, followed by 'Express'.
- Select ZAR as the deposit currency and specify the token you wish to purchase.
- Enter the ZAR amount you want to exchange and confirm your trade.

What are the Fees?
The costs related to investing in digital currencies via your Standard Bank account can vary based on the exchange you choose. Notably, Binance allows for free ZAR deposits via Standard Bank and levies a competitive 0.1% trading fee on transactions. This favorable fee model makes Binance a preferred choice for crypto enthusiasts in South Africa keen on buying and trading a diverse range of cryptocurrencies, compared to other options like Luno and VALR, which typically charge higher fees and spreads.
Is Standard Bank Crypto-Friendly?
While Standard Bank doesn't directly facilitate crypto purchases, it is somewhat crypto-friendly. Customers can use their accounts to send funds to Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) approved South African exchanges accepting ZAR deposits. This process allows trading of various cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum in a regulated environment, indirectly supporting their participation in the crypto market.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, while Standard Bank currently doesn't offer direct cryptocurrency services, it provides a gateway for South African crypto enthusiasts to participate in the digital asset market. By using their Standard Bank accounts, customers can transfer South African Rand (ZAR) to certified exchanges such as Binance, which we have identified as the most efficient platform due to its instant, free ZAR deposits and competitive trading fees.