Major French banking group BPCE is reportedly set to introduce cryptocurrency trading features.
Consequently, this bold move targets its vast retail customer base. Specifically, the bank aims to become a traditional European pioneer in digital assets. According to reports, users will soon be able to buy or sell Bitcoin & Ether. Additionally, the service supports Solana & USDC directly within existing mobile apps. Therefore, customers at Banque Populaire & Caisse d’Épargne gain seamless access. Initially, the launch covers clients across four specific regional banks. For example, this includes Banque Populaire Île-de-France and Caisse d’Épargne Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. Thus, roughly 2 million customers will have immediate access to these features.
However, the group plans to expand the service gradually through 2026. Ultimately, this strategy ensures that crypto trading is available to all 12 million retail clients. Furthermore, a dedicated digital asset account facilitates these crypto purchases & sales. Reportedly, BPCE’s crypto subsidiary, Hexarq, will manage this internal banking integration. Regarding costs, the account appears to have a monthly fee of €2.99. Moreover, a 1.5% commission applies per trade, with a minimum charge. Consequently, users can access services without needing external exchanges or wallets.
Significantly, this development arrives as competition intensifies across the European financial sector. Traditional banks are currently battling crypto-friendly fintechs like Revolut & Trade Republic. Indeed, these agile competitors already offer easy access to digital assets. Similarly, other European institutions have recently taken comparable steps. For instance, BBVA allows Spanish customers to hold Bitcoin directly in-app. Also, Santander’s Openbank offers trading & custody for five major cryptocurrencies. Meanwhile, Raiffeisen Bank has partnered with Bitpanda to serve retail clients.
Despite the excitement, regulatory changes in France loom over the sector. Recently, lawmakers narrowly approved an amendment expanding the country’s wealth tax. Consequently, this change covers “unproductive assets,” including digital currencies like crypto. Under the new proposal, individuals holding significant assets could face higher taxes. However, the proposal must still pass the Senate before becoming law. Regarding the rollout, insiders suggest a phased approach allows for performance monitoring.
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