KBC Bank Becomes First in Belgium to Offer Regulated Crypto Trading

KBC Bank has begun offering retail investors access to cryptocurrency trading, becoming the first bank in Belgium and among the early movers in Europe to provide such services within a regulated framework.

The service is available through Bolero, the bank’s online investment platform, and allows clients to trade a selection of crypto assets alongside more traditional investments.

KBC said the offering is designed to provide access to digital assets within a secure and regulated banking environment, aligning with its broader focus on integrating new investment capabilities into its existing digital ecosystem.

The offering has been developed in line with Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCAR), the European Union’s regulatory framework for crypto assets, which aims to standardize oversight across member states and improve transparency in the sector.

Erik Luts, chief innovation officer at KBC Group, said:  “With this launch, we are making innovation concrete for our clients by providing access to crypto assets within a regulated and trusted framework."

“Trust is a key element of our approach, and by working with Crypto Finance as our trading partner, we rely on an experienced and regulated provider that meets the high standards we apply across our investment services.”

To support the service, KBC has partnered with Crypto Finance, part of Deutsche Börse Group. Crypto Finance will act as the principal trading counterparty, providing execution services and access to liquidity.

KBC said the launch forms part of its ongoing efforts to expand its investment offering while maintaining established standards of client protection and operational reliability.