Overview
Paymium was founded in 2011 in Paris, making it one of the very first Bitcoin exchanges in Europe. Originally launched under the name Bitcoin-Central, the platform rebranded to Paymium and has operated continuously for over a decade. This longevity makes it one of the longest-running cryptocurrency exchanges in the world, a notable distinction in an industry where platforms frequently come and go.
The exchange focuses on simplicity and a narrow scope. Paymium offers BTC/EUR trading pairs, accepting deposits exclusively through SEPA bank transfers. This focused approach means the platform does not attempt to compete with large global exchanges on asset variety or feature breadth. Instead, it provides a straightforward way for European users to buy and sell Bitcoin with euros.
Paymium is registered as a Digital Asset Service Provider (DASP) with France's AMF, placing it under the same regulatory framework as other licensed French crypto platforms. The company has maintained a relatively low profile compared to newer, more heavily marketed competitors, but its long operational history and regulatory standing give it credibility among users who value track record and stability over flashy features.
Getting Started
Paymium's registration process is designed to be simple, reflecting the platform's overall focus on straightforward Bitcoin trading.
- Step 1: Create an account at paymium.com. Provide your email address, set a password, and confirm your registration.
- Step 2: Complete identity verification. Submit a government-issued ID and proof of address to comply with French regulatory requirements. Processing times may vary.
- Step 3: Deposit euros via SEPA bank transfer. Once your account is verified, initiate a transfer from your bank to the provided SEPA details. Funds typically arrive within one to two business days.
- Step 4: Buy Bitcoin using the trading interface. Place a market or limit order on the BTC/EUR order book, review the details, and confirm your purchase.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Long track record: Operating since 2011, Paymium is one of the oldest Bitcoin exchanges in the world, with over a decade of continuous operation.
- French regulatory compliance: Registered with the AMF as a DASP, providing legal accountability under French and EU regulations.
- Simple and focused: The platform's narrow focus on BTC/EUR trading makes it easy to use for European users who primarily want to buy and sell Bitcoin.
Cons
- Very limited asset selection: Paymium focuses almost exclusively on Bitcoin, so users seeking altcoins will need to look elsewhere.
- SEPA only: The platform does not support card payments or other deposit methods, which limits convenience for some users.
- Lower liquidity: As a smaller, niche exchange, trading volumes and liquidity are significantly lower than on major global platforms.