EU Bank to Launch Regulated Bitcoin and Ethereum Trading

KBC, one of Belgium's major banks, is set to allow retail clients to trade Bitcoin and Ethereum starting February 16. This initiative will follow the European regulatory framework known as MiCA and will utilize KBC's Bolero platform.

This move represents a significant development for self-directed investors in Belgium, as it will provide a regulated environment for cryptocurrency trading, a first for the country. According to a press release, approximately 45% of Belgians aged 30-40 have already invested in cryptocurrencies, which KBC aims to cater to, given that 60% of Bolero's users are under 40.

Bolero operates on an execution-only model, meaning clients take charge of their investment decisions without receiving advisory services. Users must also demonstrate their understanding of the market and the associated risks through tests.

“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,” stated Bolero CEO Céline Pfister.

To address concerns related to fraud and money laundering, Bolero employs a closed system, restricting users to buy and sell cryptocurrencies only within the platform while adhering to stringent KYC and AML protocols. Additionally, KBC became part of a banking consortium in September 2025 to work on launching a euro stablecoin.