Summary: Credit Agricole customers can access Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies through AMF-regulated crypto exchanges in France like eToro, supporting quick EUR deposits and low trading fees.
By allowing transfers to compliant crypto platforms, Credit Agricole empowers users with a secure method to engage in digital asset investments.
Crypto investing is offered by eToro (Europe) Ltd as a DASP, registered with the AMF. Cryptoasset investing is highly volatile. No consumer protection.
Credit Agricole Cryptocurrency Policy
Credit Agricole is a leading French banking group offering its clients varied financial services. CACEIS is the asset servicing banking group of Crédit Agricole that offers direct Bitcoin investment but strictly services asset managers and institutional investors.
For individual investors, the bank allows Euro transfers to crypto exchanges registered with the Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF). However, they may not approve transactions going to unregulated, offshore platforms that are not licensed in the EU.
We recommend eToro (Europe) Ltd, which is registered as a Digital Assets Services Provider (DASP) with AMF. This allows the exchange to facilitate buying or selling digital assets for legal tender in France.
How to Buy Bitcoin and Crypto with Credit Agricole
Credit Agricole clients can buy cryptocurrency by transferring funds to digital asset exchanges that support EUR deposits and adhere to AMF regulations.
Follow these steps to get started on eToro.
1. Create Account
Begin by heading to the official eToro website and clicking ‘Join eToro’, which is located in the middle of your screen. Then, enter your email address and create a username and password. Following account creation, you must complete a questionnaire and ID verification process.
2. Deposit Funds
Now that your account has been established, you will need to deposit funds from Credit Agricole. Head to the ‘Deposit Funds’ button and select ‘EUR as your currency. Pick your preferred payment method and complete the deposit.
3. Find Crypto
Following fund deposit, you will now need to locate your desired cryptocurrency. This can be done by opening up the search bar and typing in your asset (e.g. Bitcoin). Once you have found it, click the ‘Trade’ button.
4. Complete Purchase
Enter how much you want to invest in the ‘Amount’ section, select your preferred order type and hit ‘Trade’. You have now successfully purchased cryptocurrency and can check your balance by opening your ‘Wallet’ or ‘Portfolio’ tab.
Fees & Limits
Investing in digital assets often incurs various fees from both your bank and chosen exchange. Being aware of these costs is key to maximizing returns.
eToro Costs
- Trading Fees: eToro charges 1% for buying or selling digital currencies.
- Deposit Fees: Euro deposits are free of charge, but all trades on eToro are made in USD, so users must pay a 0.5% conversion fee to swap their Euros for US Dollars.
- Withdrawal Fees: There are no charges for transferring Euros back to Credit Agricole accounts.
Credit Agricole Limits
- Transfer Costs: There are no fees for transferring funds from the bank to an external platform.
- Payment Limits: For debit card holders, standard monthly payment limits range from €2,500 to €8,000 and bank transfers are between €50 to €10,000. These can be raised to €300,000 by contacting the bank.
eToro presents a reliable option for Credit Agricole customers by offering competitive trading fees and free Euro deposits.
Final Thoughts
Investing in cryptocurrency with Credit Agricole is easy when using AMF-regulated exchanges like eToro, allowing for quick trades, low fees, and straightforward EUR deposits.
By supporting transactions only with compliant platforms, Credit Agricole provides a reliable entry point for individuals looking to diversify into digital assets within a safe environment.