In the following overview you will find the best crypto exchanges with a BaFin license, sorted by overall score in our Crypto exchange comparison.
🏆 Crypto online test winner 🏆
💰 Fees: 1.49%
🪙 Number of coins: 450
🔒 Safety: 5/5
🖥️ Service: 5/5
BaFin license
💰 Fees: 0.25%
🪙 Number of coins: 339
🔒 Safety: 5/5
🖥️ Service: 5/5
Best CFD broker
💰 Fees: 0.3%
🪙 Number of coins: 45
🔒 Safety: 5/5
🖥️ Service: 5/5
On the market since 2012
💰 Fees: 1.99%
🪙 Number of coins: 261
🔒 Safety: 5/5
🖥️ Service: 5/5
€10 bonus
💰 Fees: 1.25%
🪙 Number of coins: 27
🔒 Safety: 5/5
🖥️ Service: 5/5
✅ We recommend these crypto exchanges with a BaFin license
Choosing a crypto exchange with a BaFin license offers investors in Germany additional security and trust. Three such platforms are presented below.
Bitpanda
Bitpanda is an Austrian crypto exchange that has had a BaFin license since November 2022. This allows Bitpanda to offer regulated services in Germany and keep users’ assets safe. The platform is characterized by a user-friendly interface and, in addition to cryptocurrencies, also offers trading in stocks, ETFs and precious metals. Bitpanda is particularly suitable for beginners because it provides intuitive operation and comprehensive learning materials.
You can also find further information in our article Bitpanda experiences.
Bitvavo
Bitvavo, a Dutch crypto exchange, decided to withdraw its application for a BaFin license in May 2023. Instead, Bitvavo has been cooperating with Hyphe, a company licensed in Germany, since August 1, 2024. Hyphe has a BaFin license, which is why Bitvavo can offer its services completely legally and regulated in Germany.
Coinbase
Coinbase is one of the world’s largest crypto exchanges and has had a BaFin license since June 2021. This allows Coinbase to offer regulated crypto services in Germany. The platform is known for its high security and user-friendliness and offers a variety of cryptocurrencies for trading. For German users, Coinbase is a trustworthy option, especially due to its strict adherence to regulatory standards.
What is a BaFin license and why is it important?
The BaFin license is a regulatory approval issued by the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) in Germany. It ensures that financial service providers, including crypto exchanges, meet strict legal and regulatory requirements. This gives users additional protection and trust in the platforms.
Importance of the BaFin license for crypto exchanges
A BaFin license signals that a crypto exchange complies with German and European standards for financial services. Among other things, it regulates the protection of customer funds, the transparency of business processes and compliance with anti-money laundering regulations. For crypto exchanges, this license is an important step in operating on the German market and gaining the trust of users.
Benefits for users through regulated platforms
Regulated platforms offer users greater security because they have to adhere to strict BaFin guidelines. This includes protecting deposits, transparent fee structures and the use of modern security measures. If there are any problems, customers can also contact BaFin, which acts as an independent supervisory authority. This makes regulated crypto exchanges a trustworthy choice, especially for beginners and security-conscious investors.
Advantages and disadvantages of BaFin-licensed exchanges
BaFin-licensed crypto exchanges offer numerous advantages, especially for users who value security and regulations. However, the strict requirements for the platforms also bring with them some restrictions.
Advantages: Security and transparency
Regulated exchanges with a BaFin license must comply with strict requirements that guarantee the protection of user funds and the transparency of the platform. This includes secure storage of cryptocurrencies, clear fee structures and comprehensive anti-money laundering measures. For users, this means a higher level of trust and reliable protection against fraudulent activities.
Disadvantages: Stricter requirements and higher fees
Compliance with BaFin guidelines involves increased effort for crypto exchanges, which often leads to higher fees. In addition, the strict regulations can limit the flexibility of the platforms, for example through mandatory KYC procedures and possible limitations for international users. These factors sometimes make regulated exchanges less attractive to experienced traders seeking more freedom and lower costs.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about regulated crypto exchanges with a BaFin license
In this section we answer the most important and frequently asked questions about regulated crypto exchanges with a BaFin license.
Yes, regulated exchanges usually require full identity verification (KYC) and have strict reporting requirements. These can limit flexibility, but at the same time offer more security and protection.
Generally yes, as compliance with regulations involves higher operating costs. These costs are often passed on to users through slightly increased trading fees or service costs.
If problems arise such as losses due to fraud or insolvency, you can contact BaFin as the supervisory authority. It monitors compliance with the guidelines and offers you as a user additional protection and a contact point for complaints.