Can I Buy Crypto with BBVA?

Yes, BBVA customers in Spain can now buy crypto directly through the bank’s mobile app, following regulatory approval from Spain’s securities authority in early 2025. This trading service is limited to buying, selling, and managing Bitcoin and Ethereum, and does not support other tokens.

For BBVA clients based outside of Spain, the best option is to use a regulated digital asset exchange in Europe, Asia, or the Americas that complies with your country’s financial regulations. These platforms accept deposits from BBVA accounts and allow you to purchase popular cryptocurrencies like Solana and Tether.

How to Buy Bitcoin with BBVA

BBVA customers can easily buy Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies by transferring euros to regulated crypto exchanges approved by global financial authorities like the SEC, MiCA, and Banxico.

Kraken is a crypto exchange that complies with MiCA regulations and is authorized by several global regulators. It accepts deposits in multiple fiat currencies through SEPA bank transfers, debit cards, credit cards, and various e-wallet services like PayPal.

Here’s a guide to buying cryptocurrency using BBVA and Kraken:

1. Create a Kraken Account: Register on Kraken’s official site, then complete the required identity verification (KYC).
2. Fund Your Account: In the interface, go to "Deposit," choose your preferred currency and payment option, and send funds from your BBVA account.
3. Choose a Cryptocurrency: Once your funds appear in your account, select Bitcoin or your desired crypto asset.
4. Finalize Your Trade: Specify the investment amount, review the details carefully, then confirm your transaction.

BBVA Cryptocurrency Policy

BBVA is a crypto-friendly bank that actively facilitates digital asset investing through regulated exchanges. Here's how BBVA handles crypto across its key markets:

BBVA Spain

In Spain, BBVA operates under supervision by the Comisión Nacional del Mercado de Valores (CNMV) and the Banco de España. The bank now provides customers with direct crypto trading services, enabling the buying and selling of Bitcoin and Ethereum through its mobile banking app.

BBVA México

BBVA México operates under regulation from the Comisión Nacional Bancaria y de Valores (CNBV) and the Banco de México. While direct crypto trading through the bank is not yet available, customers can conveniently perform fiat currency transfers to exchanges.

Garanti BBVA

Through its subsidiary, Garanti BBVA, the bank has launched crypto asset trading services in Turkey. The Capital Markets Board (CMB) regulates these services under the Capital Markets Law, ensuring that crypto asset service providers meet licensing, capital, and compliance requirements.

BBVA Argentina

BBVA Argentina does not offer direct crypto trading but facilitates fund transfers to registered exchanges. The National Securities Commission (CNV) oversees the registration of virtual asset service providers, while the Financial Intelligence Unit (UIF) enforces AML compliance.

In all these jurisdictions, BBVA maintains compliance with regional regulations, ensuring customer safety and confidence in cryptocurrency investments.

Alternative Crypto Exchanges for BBVA

Apart from Kraken, BBVA clients can access several other cryptocurrency exchanges authorized by leading global financial regulators:

• Binance: The largest global exchange, holding over 20 licences worldwide. Binance offers over 350 cryptocurrencies for spot and futures trading. It charges 1% trading fees.
• Uphold: A multi-asset platform supporting deposits in 30+ fiat currencies that provides access to over 280 cryptocurrencies, plus 27 traditional currencies, and 4 precious metals.
• Bitpanda: An established Austrian platform regulated by Austria's Financial Market Authority. Bitpanda offers extensive access with over 250 cryptocurrencies alongside stocks, ETFs, commodities, and indices. Standard trading fees hover around 1.49%.
  

Cryptocurrency Exchange Fees

Before investing in digital currencies, it's essential to understand the fee structures that exchanges typically apply. Here's a breakdown of standard charges you'll encounter:

• Deposits: Exchanges generally offer free deposits through bank transfers from BBVA accounts. However, deposits made with cards frequently come with substantial fees. For instance, using a card on platforms like Kraken typically involves a fee around 3.75%.
• Withdrawals: Fiat currency withdrawals via bank transfers back to your BBVA account usually carry no additional costs. However, if you withdraw cryptocurrencies, expect network fees (often called "gas" fees).
• Trading Fees: Crypto exchanges differ considerably in trading fee structures. Bitpanda charges a flat fee of around 1.49% per trade. In comparison, Kraken employs a tiered maker/taker model, starting from 0.16% for makers and 0.26% for takers.

Always review your chosen platform's specific fee schedule before making any transactions. Doing so ensures transparency and helps prevent unexpected charges when investing via your BBVA account.

About BBVA Bank

Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria (BBVA) is a major global financial institution headquartered in Spain, recognized for its significant presence in Europe and robust operations across Mexico, Turkey, and South America. 

With a strategic focus on digital innovation, BBVA offers comprehensive banking services ranging from retail and commercial banking to investment management and insurance. Known for embracing fintech developments, BBVA recently expanded its services into cryptocurrencies, offering direct crypto trading solutions in selected regions.

Final Thoughts

BBVA’s integration of cryptocurrency trading into its mobile banking app marks a significant step in bridging traditional finance with digital assets. By enabling its Spanish customers to buy and sell Bitcoin and Ethereum directly, BBVA offers a secure entry point into crypto investing. 

For clients outside Spain, transferring euros to licensed exchanges like Kraken or Bitstamp remains reliable for accessing a broader range of cryptocurrencies. As always, users should assess each platform's compliance, fees, and security measures to make informed decisions.