BPCE to Launch Crypto Purchases in Mobile Banking Apps

BPCE, France's second-largest financial group with assets totaling €1 trillion, will enable customers to purchase Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and USDC directly through its mobile banking apps starting December 8. This marks a significant move in integrating cryptocurrency into traditional banking.

The initial rollout includes four of BPCE’s 29 regional banks, targeting approximately two million clients.
Expansion to all regional banks is planned for 2026, depending on initial performance.
Crypto transactions will occur within existing BPCE apps via a digital asset account at €2.99 monthly, with a 1.5% trading fee.
Hexarq, BPCE's crypto subsidiary, oversees the service after receiving PSAN authorization.

Regulatory Context

The launch coincides with MiCA implementation across the EU, positioning France as a proactive regulatory environment.
A proposal for an "unproductive wealth" tax on crypto assets was narrowly passed by the French National Assembly and is under Senate review.
If approved, the tax will be effective January 1, 2026.