Can I Buy Bitcoin with Standard Chartered?

Standard Chartered does not allow direct Bitcoin purchases, but clients can fund regulated exchanges with their accounts. Supported methods include local transfers (Faster Payments in the UK, NEFT/RTGS in India, FAST in Singapore), SWIFT, and Standard Chartered cards.

Customers in markets such as the UK, Hong Kong, Singapore, and South Asia can transfer funds to licensed platforms and buy Bitcoin while remaining within the bank’s compliance and regional regulations.

How to Buy Crypto with Standard Chartered

The easiest way for Standard Chartered clients to access Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies is through Binance, the world’s largest exchange with over 288 million users and support for 350+ digital assets. 

Binance operates in key SC Bank regions including the UK, Hong Kong, Singapore, and South Asia, and accepts deposits in multiple currencies such as GBP, USD, EUR, SGD, and HKD.

Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Crypto with Standard Chartered and Binance:

1. Create an Account: Sign up on Binance and complete identity verification (KYC).
2. Deposit Funds: Transfer money from your Standard Chartered account using Faster Payments, NEFT/RTGS, FAST, SWIFT, or Standard Chartered debit/credit cards.
3. Select a Cryptocurrency: Choose from hundreds of assets including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Solana (SOL).
4. Confirm Your Purchase: Enter the amount, review the order, and execute the trade.

Standard Chartered’s Cryptocurrency Policy

Standard Chartered has taken a pro-crypto stance, becoming the first global systemically important bank to launch deliverable spot trading for Bitcoin and Ether in July 2025 through its UK branch. Alongside its digital asset custody platform, this gives institutional clients regulated access to crypto markets.

For retail and corporate customers, Standard Chartered also allows transfers to licensed third-party exchanges, provided they comply with local regulations. Clients can fund platforms such as Binance or Kraken using Standard Chartered accounts, subject to compliance checks.

Key Policy and Regulatory Oversight:

• United Kingdom: As an FCA-registered cryptoasset service provider, Standard Chartered enables trading and settlement under UK rules. Retail transfers are permitted only to FCA-compliant exchanges.
• Singapore: Regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). Customers can fund exchanges licensed as Digital Payment Token (DPT) providers or Major Payment Institutions.
• Hong Kong: Overseen by the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC). Transfers are supported only to SFC-licensed platforms.
• India and South Asia: Governed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and regional AML frameworks. Payments to unregistered exchanges are monitored and may be blocked.
• Transaction Monitoring: Crypto transfers undergo enhanced screening. Transactions to high-risk or unlicensed platforms may be delayed, restricted, or reported.

Best Alternative Crypto Exchanges for SC Bank Customers

For SC Bank investors seeking options beyond Binance or the bank’s own digital asset platform, three exchanges stand out for their regulatory strength, asset coverage, and simple funding support.

• Kraken: A trusted exchange offering 350+ cryptocurrencies and audited Proof-of-Reserves. Standard Chartered clients can deposit via SWIFT, local bank transfers, and debit or credit cards. Fees start at 0.16% maker and 0.26% taker, with advanced tools available on Kraken Pro.
• Gate: Favored by altcoin traders, listing more than 3,600 tokens. Supports deposits through cards and local payment partners. Fees begin at 0.2%, with discounts for GateToken (GT) holders.
• Coinbase: A publicly listed exchange with 240+ cryptocurrencies and strong regulatory compliance. Deposits are available through bank transfers, Faster Payments, and cards. Fees start at 1.49%, with lower rates on Advanced Trade.

Standard Chartered customers should compare costs, supported assets, and deposit methods to select the exchange that best fits their needs.

About Standard Chartered

Standard Chartered Bank is a UK-based multinational with more than 9 million customers across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. Its retail business offers Current Accounts, Smart Credit Cards, mortgages, personal loans, and Priority Banking for affluent clients. 

On the corporate side, it is known for trade finance, treasury management, and international payments, making it a leading provider of cross-border banking solutions.

Final Thoughts

Standard Chartered clients can buy Bitcoin by funding licensed exchanges such as Binance, Kraken, or Coinbase with approved transfers. 

Retail users should focus on platforms that meet local rules and offer the right mix of fees and assets, while institutional investors can also access SC Bank’s regulated spot trading and custody services. This ensures that both retail and institutional activities remain compliant.