Best Crypto Exchanges in Malta

Top Crypto Trading Platforms in Malta

To support Maltese traders, we tested the 27 cryptocurrency platforms that operate in Malta. Our evaluation considered compliance with the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) guidelines, Euro deposit options, the variety of assets offered, trading fees, and features. Below is a comparison table of the five best digital asset exchanges for Maltese investors.

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1. Bybit

Bybit is the top choice for cryptocurrency traders in Malta due to its extensive features and Maltese language support. It provides access to over 1,500 cryptocurrencies for spot trading and more than 450 futures contracts with up to 100x leverage. The platform's high liquidity, catering to its 55 million users worldwide, ensures competitive prices and fast execution.

It also offers advanced tools such as copy trading, TradeGPT, a demo account and trading bots for automated strategies. Additional features include staking services, crypto loans, NFT trading, and a crypto debit card. Bybit takes transparency seriously and regularly publishes its proof-of-reserves to show all assets are backed on a 1:1 basis.

• Fees: Maker fee of 0.02% and taker fee of 0.055%; spot trading fees are 0.1%.
• Supported Assets: Over 1,500 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Regulated by CySEC and available in Malta.
• EUR Deposit Methods: SEPA, bank transfers, credit cards, debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Zen, Samsung Pay and PayPal.

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2. Kraken

Kraken is a leading exchange in Malta, offering a comprehensive suite of services for both individual and institutional investors. The platform supports over 290 cryptocurrencies for spot trading and provides access to over 100 futures contracts with up to 5x leverage. Its advanced trading tools, such as over-the-counter (OTC) services, cater to professional traders.

Security is a cornerstone of Kraken's operations, featuring industry-leading protocols such as advanced cold storage solutions and two-factor authentication to safeguard user assets. The platform's commitment to transparency is demonstrated through regular Proof of Reserves audits, allowing users to verify that their holdings are fully backed.

• Fees: Maker fees start at 0.16% and taker fees at 0.26%.
• Supported Assets: Over 290 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Operates under the oversight of the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA).
• EUR Deposit Methods: SEPA transfers, wire transfers, and credit/debit cards.

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3. Uphold

Uphold offers a simple interface suitable for beginners and a wide selection of assets, including cryptocurrencies, precious metals and fiat currencies. Users can trade over 300 digital assets and enjoy features like commission-free trading on certain transactions. The platform also provides a seamless experience across desktop and mobile devices.

In addition to trading, Uphold offers services such as staking, allowing users to earn up to 28% APY in rewards on their crypto holdings, and the Uphold Card, which enables spending of various assets directly from the Uphold wallet with zero foreign transaction fees. The platform also publishes real-time information on assets to ensure funds are fully backed. 

• Fees: Variable spreads starting at 0.8%; no deposit fees for bank transfers.
• Supported Assets: Over 300 cryptocurrencies, 4 precious metals and 27 fiat currencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Registered with the Bank of Lithuania and available in Malta.
• EUR Deposit Methods: SEPA transfers, credit cards, debit cards, and Google Pay.

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4. eToro

eToro is a popular European multi-asset investment platform, offering access to over 4,500 financial instruments. This selection includes more than 100 cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, plus over 6,000 traditional assets like stocks, commodities and ETFs. It has over 30 million registered customers across Malta, and the platform can be used in Maltese. 

Regulated by the MFSA, it has a registered office in Mosta, Malta. One of its main offerings is the copy trading feature, which allows users to replicate the trades of successful eToro investors automatically. Known for its policy of no initial commissions and attractive spreads, it is a great choice for investors aiming to broaden their investment horizons.

• Fees: Variable spread fee model of around 1%.
• Supported Assets: Over 6,000 cryptocurrencies, stocks, ETFs and commodities.
• Regulation & Licensing: eToro Money Malta Ltd is regulated by the MFSA under Company No. C97952.‍
• EUR Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, SEPA, debit cards, credit cards, and PayPal.

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5. Gate.io

Gate.io is popular for its extensive digital asset offerings and advanced trading tools. The platform gives Maltese investors access to over 2,900 cryptocurrencies for spot trading, futures contracts. It also provides innovative tools like a practice account, grid trading bots, martingale strategies, and copy trading for automated trading experiences.

The exchange offers a suite of financial services, including staking, crypto loans, and auto-investment plans for users seeking to maximize their returns. The "Simple Earn" program allows investors to earn passive income on their digital assets with both fixed and flexible staking terms available, offering up to 499% APY on hundred of cryptocurrencies.

• Fees: Maker and taker fees start at 0.2%.
• Supported Assets: Over 2,900 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Not regulated in Malta but available in the country.
• EUR Deposit Methods: Credit/debit cards and Apple Pay.

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Is Cryptocurrency Regulated in Malta?

Malta has established itself as a leader in cryptocurrency regulation, backed by the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) Act of 2024. This legislation, implemented in alignment with the European Union’s MiCA Regulation, is administered by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA). 

The MFSA oversees the regulation of crypto-asset service providers, issuers of asset-referenced tokens, and issuers of e-money tokens. The MiCA Act not only enforces EU-wide rules but also supplements them with local provisions that clarify obligations for entities operating within Malta. 

These provisions define new categories of approved entities and establish detailed guidelines for notification, authorization, and fees. The MFSA plays a pivotal role in supervising these entities and promoting innovation. This framework reflects Malta's proactive approach while phasing out older frameworks like the Virtual Financial Assets Act.

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How is Crypto Taxed in Malta?

The Commissioner for Revenue (CFR) in Malta has established a comprehensive framework for the taxation of crypto transactions, distinguishing between individual and business activities. For individuals, occasional trading of digital currencies is generally exempt from capital gains tax. 

However, if trading is frequent or conducted in a business-like manner, it may be subject to personal income tax rates ranging from 15% to 35%, depending on total annual income. Long-term holdings are typically exempt from capital gains tax upon conversion to fiat currency.

Businesses involved in activities such as professional trading, mining, or other blockchain services are subject to a corporate tax rate of 35%. This rate can be significantly reduced to as low as 0% to 5% through proper structuring and professional tax planning.

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How to Buy Bitcoin in Malta

Purchasing Bitcoin in Malta has become straightforward due to the country's supportive regulatory environment and access to cryptocurrency platforms regulated by the MFSA. Here’s a guide to help you get started:

1. Select an Exchange: Choose a reliable platform that operates in Malta and supports euro (EUR) transactions.
2. Register an Account: Visit the chosen exchange's website and sign up by providing your personal details, such as name, email, and a secure password. Complete the Know Your Customer (KYC) verification by submitting valid identification and proof of residence.
3. Deposit Funds: After verification, log into your account and navigate to the deposit section. Select EUR as your currency and choose a preferred payment method. Enter the amount you wish to deposit and follow the on-screen instructions.
4. Purchase Bitcoin (BTC): Once your account is funded, go to the platform's trading or buy/sell section. Search for Bitcoin and select the EUR/BTC trading pair. Input your desired investment amount, review the details and confirm the purchase.

It's advisable to transfer your Bitcoin from the exchange to a personal wallet for better security. This practice gives you greater control over your assets and reduces reliance on the exchange's security measures.

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Bottom Line

Malta has established itself as a hub for cryptocurrency activity and the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) oversees the regulation of these platforms. Leading exchanges such as Bybit, Kraken, Uphold, eToro, and Gate.io offer Maltese users access to a wide array of cryptocurrencies, advanced trading tools, and innovative services. 

These platforms provide high-leverage trading options, advanced security measures, support for Euro deposits, and attractive staking and earning programs.