One of Belgium's largest banks, KBC, will begin offering retail clients the ability to buy and sell leading digital assets starting February 16.
The bank will implement this option in accordance with the European regulatory framework MiCA and based on its own Bolero platform.
“This will allow self-directed investors in Belgium to invest in cryptocurrencies in a safe and fully regulated environment, marking the first instance of its kind in the country,” the press release stated.
Research indicates that about 45% of Belgians aged 30-40 have already invested in cryptocurrencies. KBC's Bolero solution targets this demographic, with 60% of its users under 40. The most common search term on the service's website is “bitcoin.”
Bolero operates solely on an execution-only basis. Clients make their own decisions and do not receive investment advice. They must also pass tests on knowledge and experience, as well as awareness of potential risks.
“We have noticed that tech-savvy clients are particularly interested in this type of product. As a platform for self-directed investors, we offer them complete control over their investments, without consultations, but with the necessary support,” explained Bolero CEO Céline Pfister.
To mitigate risks of fraud and money laundering, the platform employs a closed system—users can only buy and sell cryptocurrency within Bolero. The service adheres to strict KYC and AML procedures.
It is worth noting that in September 2025, KBC joined a banking consortium aimed at launching a euro stablecoin.