About CEX.IO
CEX.IO is a London-based cryptocurrency exchange established in 2013, with a strong operational footprint across Europe. The platform enables individuals and institutional clients to buy, sell, and trade cryptocurrencies with support for multiple fiat currencies, notably the Euro (EUR). Users in Europe benefit from a variety of Euro on- and off-ramp options, such as SEPA bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay. CEX.IO offers spot trading, instant buy/sell transactions, staking services, and access to savings products where local regulations permit.
For experienced users or institutions, CEX.IO provides leveraged trading and API access, although these features are subject to the latest EU regulations. Compliance is a core focus; the platform is registered and licensed in several European Economic Area (EEA) countries and strictly adheres to AML (Anti-Money Laundering) and KYC (Know Your Customer) policies. CEX.IO’s user interface is beginner-friendly, accessible via mobile apps and desktop, and available in multiple European languages. Security measures include two-factor authentication, regular audits, segregated customer funds, and insurance on fiat balances.
While CEX.IO meets the expectations of many European users seeking a regulated platform post-MiCA implementation and recent market volatility, it faces competition from other established exchanges. Users may encounter higher fees for instant transactions and a more limited selection of altcoins compared to some global competitors. Customer service is multilingual and generally reliable, but peak times can see delays. Overall, CEX.IO provides a compliant and straightforward option for European residents looking to participate in the crypto market with the assurance of regulatory oversight.
Pro's of using CEX.IO
- MiCA-compliant and licensed in multiple European jurisdictions, offering regulatory reassurance.
- Strong support for Euro (EUR): SEPA transfers, bank cards, and transparent EUR-based transactions.
- Beginner-friendly interface, with mobile and desktop access and multilingual customer support.
- Security features including two-factor authentication, customer fund segregation, and regular independent audits.
- Offers staking, savings products, and supports both retail and institutional investors.
Con's of using CEX.IO
- Higher fees for instant buy/sell and certain EUR deposit/withdrawal methods, compared to some competitors.
- Limited number of supported altcoins and tokens relative to exchanges like Binance or KuCoin.
- Fewer advanced trading features: futures and higher leverage are restricted due to MiCA and local regulations.
- Strict and sometimes lengthy KYC/verification process, especially for larger transactions.
- Some services (like lending and higher-yield products) are restricted or unavailable to users in the EU.
What are alternatives for CEX.IO
- Kraken: Well-regarded for Euro support, low fees, and advanced trading options. MiCA-compliant and popular across Europe.
- Bitstamp: Luxembourg-based, one of the oldest exchanges in Europe with strong regulatory status and excellent EUR support.
- Coinbase: Widely used, easy-to-use interface, supports SEPA transfers, but has higher fees and fewer altcoins in the EU.
- Binance (EU version): Largest exchange with localized services in Europe; wide coin selection but some features limited by region.
- Bitpanda: Austria-based, MiCA-registered, focuses on EUR, and offers trading in crypto, precious metals, and stocks; user-friendly with slightly higher fees.