Europe's Crypto Bonus Wars Return
CFD brokers are left out of the competition.
1Crypto Exchanges Enter the Fray
In June 2026, four licensed crypto exchanges launched customer acquisition campaigns targeting users in the European Economic Area. Transfer bonuses, cashback offers, and a €1 million prize draw were rolled out ahead of MiCA's transitional deadline on 1 July.
2Kraken's Mega Prize Draw
Kraken offered one entry into a €1 million prize draw for every euro deposited by enrolled EEA users from 19 June to 31 July. Both new and existing customers could participate. The campaign was available on Kraken Pro and the main app.
3Bybit's Cashback Campaign
Bybit EU launched its 'Move Your Funds, Get Rewarded' campaign for new users in the EEA, excluding Malta. Users depositing $50,000 or more in crypto received 3% annualized cashback paid monthly in USDC over 12 months, subject to minimum spot trading volume.
4OKX's High Deposit Bonus
OKX offered an 8% bonus on net deposits, capped at €20,000 and paid in USDC over 52 weeks, to EEA residents who deposited at least €10 by 31 July. New accounts also qualified for a welcome bonus of up to €400 and a 30-day VIP upgrade.
5Coinbase's Transfer Bonus
Coinbase promoted a 5% bonus on crypto transferred to the platform for Coinbase One subscribers. The offer covered users in Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Belgium, Poland, Sweden, and the UK. The bonus was paid quickly and in full on a MiCA-compliant exchange.
6CFD Brokers' Loss
In 2018, ESMA rules prohibited CFD brokers from offering account opening bonuses or trading incentives to customers. These rules do not apply to crypto exchanges. MiCA allows crypto exchanges to continue running customer acquisition campaigns.