BNP Paribas Unveils Crypto-Linked Exchange-Traded Notes for French Retail Clients

BNP Paribas is expanding its digital asset offerings in France by launching six crypto-linked exchange-traded notes (ETNs) for retail clients. The products track the price of Bitcoin and Ethereum, allowing investors to gain exposure without directly owning the cryptocurrencies.

The ETNs are available through standard securities accounts and can be accessed via the bank's digital platform, Hello bank!. BNP Paribas said it may extend the rollout to wealth management clients outside France in the future.

Unlike direct crypto purchases, ETNs carry credit risk tied to the issuing institution. They also offer certain tax advantages depending on the investor's jurisdiction.

This move fits within BNP Paribas's broader digital asset strategy, which includes its involvement with the Canton Network and Digital Asset's $135 million funding round. Crypto ETN adoption is growing across Europe, with ING Germany recently adding new products from Bitwise and VanEck to its platform.