Overview
Binance is the world's largest crypto exchange by volume. For Europeans the situation is complex: Binance left the Netherlands in 2023 after a DNB fine and operates elsewhere via local entities or reverse solicitation.
Licences and regulation
- MiCA: no known direct EU licence under the Binance name · MiFID II: no · DNB fine: €3.33M (2022) · Netherlands: exited in 2023
Products (EU status)
| Product | EU status | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Spot crypto | Via local entities | 350+ assets globally |
| Perpetuals | Restricted in the EU | Global product |
| Real stocks | Global | 7,000+ stocks, T+2, no W-8BEN, BNB Chain |
Proof of Reserves
Monthly Merkle/zk-SNARK proofs on major assets; methodology has faced scrutiny.
Pros / cons
Pros: biggest asset range (350+ crypto, 7,000+ stocks); deepest liquidity; real shares product.
Cons: DNB fine history; unavailable in the Netherlands; complex regulatory patchwork; stocks without ACATS or W-8BEN; T+2 settlement.
Best suited for
Traders outside the Netherlands in supported countries, users seeking maximum asset diversity, BNB Chain users.
Frequently asked questions
Can Dutch users trade on Binance?
Not directly — Binance left the Netherlands. Reverse solicitation carries risks.
Is my money safe at Binance?
Monthly PoR exists but has been criticised methodologically. For larger sums, weigh the alternatives.