Summary: The safeguarding and management of Bitcoin and other digital currencies in Malta have become increasingly efficient, in line with the Malta Financial Services Authority's rigorous standards. The country's exchanges offer seamless integration with the Euro, allowing for swift and secure deposits through bank transfers or credit card payments. This advancement bolsters the growth and stability of the crypto market in Malta.
Our in-depth analysis highlights the top 5 cryptocurrency exchanges in Malta, each renowned for their adherence to stringent security protocols and regulatory compliance, various Euro deposit methods, the diversity of cryptocurrencies they support, their features and services, and pricing structures.
- Instant and free Euro deposits from any Maltese bank, debit or credit card.
- Buy 1000+ cryptocurrencies with low fees (0.1%) through spot and futures trading.
- Regulated and trusted exchange with over 18 million users worldwide.
Best Crypto Exchanges in Malta
Our team has meticulously crafted a robust evaluation framework to find the leading exchanges catering to investors in Malta. This evaluation emphasizes adherence to the Malta Financial Services Authority's guidelines, user interface, pricing structure, services and features, and the diversity of digital currencies offered. After our thorough review, we have determined the top 5 cryptocurrency trading platforms in Malta.
1. Bybit
Bybit is the best overall exchange in Malta, specializing in cryptocurrency derivatives trading on over 1000 tokens. It offers perpetual and futures contracts with high leverage up to 25x on select contracts, catering to experienced traders. Its trading engine is renowned for its high throughput and low latency, ensuring swift trade execution. The platform also features advanced charting tools, a customizable interface, and real-time market insights. Its 24/7 multilingual customer support and continuous platform updates keep it at the forefront of derivatives trading. Bybit is particularly favored for its intuitive design, high liquidity, and advanced order types. Aside from trading, it provides staking, lending and borrowing services, an NFT marketplace and more.
- Minimum Deposit: €20 for first-time deposit.
- Supported Assets: 1000+ Cryptocurrency.
- Regulation: Registered in Malta with the MFSA.
- Fees: Costs include a 0.1% fee for spot trading, 0.01% fee for maker orders, and 0.06% for taker orders on futures markets. Deposits and withdrawals in Euros are completely free of charge.
2. Kraken
Kraken secures the second spot in Malta mainly for its exceptional asset transparency and robust security protocols. This exchange is known for providing detailed information about its digital asset holdings, giving users a clear insight into the company’s financial health and asset management strategies. The platform publishes extensive details about its reserve holdings by undergoing regular third party audits, ensuring user confidence. It offers advanced trading features like spot and futures trading, margin trading with competitive leverage options, and detailed reporting tools for tracking investments. Kraken also provides several staking options with APY up to 40%.
- Minimum Deposit: €50 for first time deposit.
- Supported Assets: 200+ Cryptocurrency.
- Regulation: Regulated by the MFSA.
- Fees: Costs include a 0.26% fee for spot trading, and the maker/taker rebate is 0.02%/0.05%.
3. Gate.io
Gate.io is the best option for Maltese investors who prioritize anonymity as it does not require identity verification in order to open a account. This is a great exchange for users concerned about privacy as it also provides 2FA and advanced security measures. Besides safety, Gate.io is also known for its wide range of over 1700 cryptocurrencies ranging from popular ones like Bitcoin and more niche altcoins and memecoins. The tokens can be traded on both spot and futures markets with leverage up to 100x. It also supports staking on hundreds of assets, allowing users to earn a yield on their digital currencies.
- Minimum Deposit: 10 EUR for first-time deposit.
- Supported Assets: 1700+ Cryptocurrency.
- Regulation: Not regulated in Malta
- Fees: Costs include a 0.1% fee for spot trading, and deposits and withdrawals in PLN are completely free of charge.
4. KuCoin
KuCoin's diverse range of altcoins positions it fourth in Malta. The platform supports over 700 cryptocurrencies, including numerous small-cap altcoins and memecoins, making it ideal for niche market trading. It offers spot trading, futures trading, a built-in P2P exchange, and unique features like crypto lending and staking. Its simple interface is coupled with an advanced API, catering to both beginner and professional traders. The KuCoin Bonus and referral program add additional value for its users. This exchange is perfect for those seeking to diversify their portfolios with lesser-known coins.
- Minimum Deposit: €10 for first-time deposit.
- Supported Assets: 700+ Cryptocurrency.
- Regulation: Not regulated in Malta.
- Fees: Costs include a 0.1% fee for spot trading. Deposits and withdrawals vary depending on the payment method.
5. Binance
Binance earns the fifth rank in Malta, particularly for being the most beginner-friendly exchange. Its platform strikes an excellent balance between ease of use and advanced functionality. Binance offers a vast range of educational resources, making it ideal for newcomers to the cryptocurrency world. Besides a wide range of cryptocurrencies, it also provides features like spot trading, futures trading, and a secure wallet, all designed to support and enhance the trading journey for beginners. The platform also offers features like staking, an NFT marketplace, and Binance Earn for passive income.
- Minimum Deposit: €20 for first-time deposit.
- Supported Assets: 350+ Cryptocurrency.
- Regulation: Not registered in Malta.
- Fees: Costs include a 0.1% fee for spot markets and 0.02% for maker orders, and 0.06% fee for taker orders on futures markets. Deposit and withdrawal fees vary depending on the method.
Is Crypto Regulated in Malta?
The cryptocurrency landscape in Malta stands as a dynamic and integral part of the nation's financial framework, operating under well-defined regulatory controls. The Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) plays a crucial role as the primary regulator for cryptocurrencies in Malta. Its responsibility involves monitoring the crypto market to ensure a harmonious balance between encouraging the industry’s growth and protecting Maltese investors.
To fulfill these goals, the MFSA implements a comprehensive set of regulations for cryptocurrency exchanges in Malta. These regulatory measures encompass Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing provisions, in line with the European Union’s 5th Anti-Money Laundering Directive (5AMLD). As a proactive member of the EU, Malta is dedicated to upholding these directives to ensure a secure and transparent crypto environment.
How to Buy Bitcoin in Malta
For those in Malta looking to explore the world of cryptocurrency, Bybit stands out as a leading choice. This platform facilitates the instant deposit of EUR through multiple methods, including bank transfers, credit cards, debit cards, PayPal, and Skrill, aligning seamlessly with Malta's financial ecosystem. Bybit offers an extensive range of over 940 cryptocurrencies, available with spot and derivatives trading.
Here's your step-by-step guide to start trading BTC in Malta:
- Register an Account: Sign up on Bybit and complete the required identity verification process.
- Deposit Euros: Navigate to the 'Buy Crypto' section and choose ‘EUR’ as your deposit currency.
- Locate Bitcoin: Select Bitcoin as your desired cryptocurrency and pick a payment method.
- Invest in BTC: Specify the amount you want to invest in BTC and click on 'Buy' to finalize your acquisition.
Maltese Tax Requirements
In Malta, the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) and the Commissioner for Revenue set forth the taxation policies for cryptocurrencies, with specific guidelines for individuals and businesses. Maltese residents possessing cryptocurrencies are required to declare their value for tax purposes, which may affect their capital gains tax obligations. Unlike some jurisdictions, Malta enforces the taxation of capital gains on these digital assets.
For Maltese businesses and self-employed persons, cryptocurrencies are considered as part of their business assets. As such, both income and capital gains taxes are applicable to them. Revenue generated from activities like mining, staking, or lending cryptocurrencies is categorized as business income and is subject to taxation according to relevant tax bands. Moreover, Value Added Tax (VAT) may be levied on certain transactions involving cryptocurrencies, in line with existing VAT rules.
Final Thoughts
To wrap up, Malta's cryptocurrency landscape presents a thriving and regulated environment, bolstered by the Malta Financial Services Authority's (MFSA) commitment to maintaining a secure and transparent market. The top five cryptocurrency exchanges in Malta are Bybit, Kraken, Gate.io KuCoin, and Binance, each offering low fees, unique features, local language support, several Euro deposit methods and advanced security measures.
I fell into crypto during the 2017 mania and have been around ever-since. I now write, research and publish my own reports on the digital asset ecosystem.
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