After maintaining silence on the topic for years, one of Belgium’s largest banks has taken a bold step forward. KBC Bank announced that it will allow retail customers to buy and hold cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum through its Bolero service.
Regulated Access via Bolero
This marks a first in Belgium, where financial giants have largely avoided crypto ventures. By joining the trend, KBC aims to meet strong public demand while ensuring secure and transparent operations.
Bolero plans to roll out these services by year-end, pending approval as an official Crypto-Asset Service Provider (CASP). A bank spokesperson clarified:
“We’re currently undergoing analysis to secure CASP recognition by autumn. If approved, retail clients can invest directly in Bitcoin and Ether, with a focus on education, security, and regulatory compliance.”
The CASP license aligns with new EU requirements under MiCA, the Markets in Crypto-Assets regulation enforced since January 2024. If successful, KBC would become Belgium’s first major bank to offer such services.
Until now, Belgian investors relied on foreign trading platforms like Binance, Coinbase, or OKX. Others accessed crypto via mobile banks such as Revolut or N26. KBC’s entry targets growing demand while providing a perceived safer, regulated environment.
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Europe’s Growing Crypto Adoption Trend
Belgium isn’t alone. In Germany, Deutsche Bank and Sparkassen-Finanzgruppe recently announced imminent crypto services, blending custody and trading. Spain’s BBVA even advises wealthy clients to allocate up to 7% of portfolios to Bitcoin and other cryptos.
These moves reflect a broader shift: traditional banks, once skeptical, are accelerating crypto integration.
In April 2025, analysts from Messari and Sygnum predicted financial institutions would leverage clearer regulations to adopt cryptos and stablecoins.
A Milestone for Digital Asset Democratization
KBC’s decision mirrors traditional players adapting to investor demand for hybrid solutions—banking security paired with exposure to digital assets.
With MiCA, CASP licensing, and examples like BBVA and Deutsche Bank, Belgium confirms it won’t be left behind in this financial revolution.
The question remains: Will this attract traditional savers or a new generation seeking diversification?
FAQs
1. Which Belgian bank offers Bitcoin and Ethereum?
KBC Bank, via its Bolero platform, pending CASP approval.
2. When will crypto services launch at KBC?
Expected by late 2025, subject to regulatory greenlight.
3. How does MiCA impact crypto in Europe?
It standardizes regulations, requiring CASP licenses for crypto services.
👉 Explore MiCA’s role in crypto adoption
4. Are other European banks offering crypto?
Yes, Deutsche Bank (Germany) and BBVA (Spain) have announced similar plans.
5. Can Belgian investors currently buy crypto?
Yes, through platforms like Binance or mobile banks like Revolut.
6. What’s the advantage of buying crypto via banks?
Perceived security and regulatory oversight compared to exchanges.
Sources: L’écho