What is Paymium?

In the landscape of French crypto platforms, Paymium holds a historic place. Founded in 2011, it is one of the very first European exchanges, long before the massive adoption of cryptocurrencies. Based in Paris, Paymium mainly targets French and European clients looking for a regulated, easy-to-use, and compliant exchange.

With the enforcement of the MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets) regulation, Paymium now operates under strict legal requirements that notably prohibit offering yield on stablecoin deposits. This is a major limitation, especially since many users are actively seeking ways to generate passive income from their savings. In this context, Coinstancy, established in French Polynesia and therefore outside MiCA’s scope, emerges as a smart alternative.

But how does Paymium actually work? What are its strengths and weaknesses? And why does Coinstancy complement the needs of French investors? 🤔

Paymium: a French crypto pioneer 🇫🇷

Paymium stands out for its longevity. Created in 2011, it was one of the first platforms in Europe to offer Bitcoin trading in euros. Today, it continues to focus on its role as an exchange, with a clean interface and strong compliance with European standards.

The platform highlights its security and its French roots. It is registered as a Digital Asset Service Provider (PSAN) with the AMF, the French financial markets authority. This official registration reassures retail investors who want to deal with a trusted and regulated local actor.

However, strict regulation also imposes limits. Paymium mainly offers spot trading (immediate buy and sell of crypto) and cannot go much further in terms of innovation. Under MiCA, the ability to provide yield on stablecoins is simply prohibited.

The strengths and limits of Paymium ⚖️

Paymium’s main strengths are clear.

First, its long history and experience make it a credible platform, particularly appealing to users who prefer a regulated French exchange. Its integration of euro deposits and withdrawals through bank transfers is also a strong advantage for European clients.

Second, its PSAN registration is a mark of security. Users know that Paymium complies with French and European rules, including anti-money laundering obligations and client protection.

But the limits are just as obvious. Paymium does not offer yield products, since MiCA prohibits platforms from paying interest on stablecoin deposits. This removes an important option for individuals looking for passive income. Its product range is narrow: mainly spot trading, without staking or advanced savings solutions. Finally, Paymium struggles to compete in terms of innovation against global giants like Binance or Coinbase.

Coinstancy: the alternative outside MiCA 🔒

This is where Coinstancy comes into play. Based in French Polynesia, outside the regulatory scope of the European Union, Coinstancy is not subject to MiCA restrictions. This allows it to offer stablecoin savings products, with yields around 7% annually.

For French users, the benefit is obvious. They can buy their first Bitcoin or stablecoins safely through Paymium, in compliance with local regulation, and then transfer their stablecoins to Coinstancy to place them in savings pools. Coinstancy secures assets with Fireblocks, an institutional-grade custody solution, and provides a simple interface designed for all users.

👉 By combining Paymium and Coinstancy, an investor can enjoy the regulatory security of France while accessing stable yields outside MiCA’s framework.

Conclusion 🌟

Paymium remains a cornerstone of the French crypto market. Secure, regulated, and historic, it provides a reassuring gateway for beginners and retail investors who want to buy and sell Bitcoin or stablecoins in euros.

But its limits come from MiCA itself: no yield on stablecoins, fewer opportunities for passive income. For those who want to go further, Coinstancy is the perfect complement. Based in Polynesia, it enables stablecoin savings with attractive yields, while remaining simple and safe.

💡 Paymium to buy, Coinstancy to save: a winning combination for French investors.

Frequently asked 🤔

Is Paymium a reliable exchange?

Yes. Paymium is one of the oldest European exchanges, founded in 2011 and registered as a PSAN with the AMF. This official recognition guarantees a certain level of security and compliance with regulation.

Why doesn’t Paymium offer yield on stablecoins?

Under European MiCA regulation, platforms like Paymium are prohibited from paying interest on stablecoin deposits. This rule was introduced to control the use of stablecoins in Europe but prevents users from generating passive income on them.

What are the advantages of using Paymium over a foreign exchange?

The main advantage is local compliance. Paymium allows buying and selling crypto directly in euros, within the French legal framework. This reassures many beginners who prefer to avoid unregulated foreign platforms.

How does Coinstancy position itself compared to MiCA?

Coinstancy is based in French Polynesia, an overseas collectivity outside the European Union. As such, it is not bound by MiCA rules. This allows it to offer yield-bearing stablecoin savings products, something impossible within the EU.

Can I use Paymium and Coinstancy together?

Yes, and it’s even a smart strategy. A user can buy stablecoins on Paymium via a euro bank transfer, then transfer them to Coinstancy to place them in a savings pool. This way, they combine French regulatory security with Polynesian yield opportunities.