Summary: Allied Irish Bank currently does not offer services that allow customers to purchase cryptocurrencies directly through its system. AIB clients keen on exploring digital currencies can only invest in this asset class by using an authorised trading platform. The bank allows fund transfers to exchanges registered with the CySEC or relevant Irish and European regulatory bodies.

After a thorough investigation, we identified eToro as the most fitting choice for AIB customers. It enables immediate EUR deposits, which can be exchanged to trade over 3,000 cryptocurrencies, stocks, commodities, indices, forex, and ETFs. The platform is also regulated by the CySEC, guaranteeing a secure trading experience.

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Can I Buy Bitcoin with Allied Irish Bank?

Yes, Allied Irish Bank customers can buy Bitcoin by transferring EUR from their bank accounts or cards to sanctioned cryptocurrency platforms in Ireland. After your funds are deposited, you can swap your euros for diverse digital assets like Polygon and Chainlink. To ensure safe transactions, we recommend using exchanges supervised by regulatory bodies such as the Cyprus Securities Exchange Commission (CySEC) or the Central Bank of Ireland.

How to Buy Crypto with Allied Irish Bank

The optimal approach for Allied Irish Bank customers to purchase cryptocurrency is through an exchange licensed by the Central Bank of Ireland. Our team has pinpointed eToro as the top option due to its adherence to regulations, vast range of tradable assets, and attractive fee structure. It accepts EUR deposits through various payment channels, including bank transfer, credit card, Skrill, and PayPal.

Here's how customers can swiftly start trading Ethereum and additional digital currencies:

  1. Create Account: Initiate by setting up an eToro account and finalising the identity confirmation steps. 
  2. Choose Currency: Upon selecting "Deposit Funds", opt for "EUR" as your currency. 
  3. Transfer Funds: Commence the transfer of funds from your AIB account or card. 
  4. Buy Crypto: Locate the token of interest using the search feature, choose it, and complete your purchase.
How to Buy Crypto with Allied Irish Bank.
How to Buy Crypto with Allied Irish Bank.

Allied Irish Bank Cryptocurrency Policy

Allied Irish Bank embraces a progressive stance on cryptocurrencies, ensuring rigorous adherence to all pertinent regulatory guidelines. It allows its customers to invest via credible platforms. Our top recommendation, eToro (Europe) Ltd., is fully accredited by the Cyprus Securities Exchange Commission (CySEC). It's registered in Ireland and Europe, with its main office at 4 Profiti Ilia Str., Kanika Business Centre, 7th floor, Germasogeia, 4046, Limassol, Cyprus.

Digital Asset Investing Fees

For those venturing into digital assets, comprehending the associated fee structures is essential for maximizing investment outcomes. Here's a detailed breakdown of the primary charges you might face:

  • Trading Margin: These are expenses linked to purchasing and selling cryptocurrencies. On eToro, spreads are generally 1% or below. 
  • Deposit Fees: There may be fees to deposit funds depending on the method you use. SEPA and bank transfers are generally free, whereas credit and debit cards and exceed 2%.
  • Withdrawal Fees: The fees for withdrawals differ based on the cryptocurrency. For example, Bitcoin transactions have a set fee of 0.0005 BTC. 

In contrast to various market platforms like Coinbase, which might impose up to 5% on transactions, eToro's varied options and competitive pricing make it a particularly attractive choice for Allied Irish Bank clients.

What is Allied Irish Bank (AIB)?

Allied Irish Bank is a leading commercial bank in Ireland, established in 1966 through the merger of three Irish banks. Headquartered in Dublin, AIB offers a wide range of banking services to individuals, businesses, and corporations, including retail, commercial, and corporate banking. It provides various financial products such as current and savings accounts, loans, mortgages, credit cards, investment services, and insurance products. 

The bank operates an extensive network of branches and ATMs throughout Ireland, has a presence in the United Kingdom, and is publicly traded on the Irish Stock Exchange and the London Stock Exchange. Committed to sustainable practices and community engagement, AIB plays a pivotal role in Ireland's economic landscape while continuously innovating to enhance customer experience.

AIB Online Banking.
AIB: Home Page.

Final Thoughts

To conclude, while Allied Irish Bank does not directly facilitate crypto trading, it provides a conducive environment for its customers to enter the digital asset world by approving transfers to regulated exchanges. eToro, with its robust regulatory framework and diverse asset offerings, is the preferred choice for AIB clients. Besides trading, eToro also offers an OTC desk, a demo account and a copy trading feature.