Belgium’s KBC Bank to Launch Crypto Services

KBC Group, Belgium’s second-largest bank, is pioneering the way for traditional banks to enter the digital asset space by launching cryptocurrency trading services for retail clients. 

Starting February 16, 2026, customers can access Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) trading directly through KBC’s Bolero platform.

This groundbreaking move follows the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework and positions KBC as the first Belgian financial institution to offer regulated crypto trading services.

The bank's initiative aims to bring secure, user-friendly crypto access to everyday investors while ensuring compliance with EU regulations and maintaining investor protection.

Key Takeaways

• KBC Bank will offer Bitcoin and Ethereum trading to retail clients via its Bolero platform starting February 2026.
• The bank will handle custody through its proprietary solution, with a focus on secure, closed-loop trading.
• The launch aligns with the EU’s MiCA framework, reinforcing regulatory standards and consumer safeguards.

KBC’s Bolero Platform: Secure and Accessible Crypto Trading

KBC’s entry into the crypto market is built around its well-established Bolero platform, offering users an easy-to-use interface for buying and selling Bitcoin and Ethereum.

The platform ensures that all digital assets remain secure within the bank’s ecosystem, and the closed-loop system means users can only trade cryptocurrencies within the Bolero environment, preventing transfers to external wallets or exchanges.

To maintain investor protection, KBC requires users to complete a knowledge and experience assessment before they begin trading, ensuring they understand the risks of crypto investments, including price volatility and potential loss.

The platform’s execution-only model gives investors full control over their crypto trading decisions, without personalized investment advice from the bank.

Educational resources, including the Bolero Academy, will help guide self-directed investors and provide them with the knowledge they need to manage their investments responsibly.

Read Also: How to Trade Crypto Futures: A Step-by-Step Beginner's Guide

KBC’s Strategic Vision and EU Crypto Regulation

KBC’s move to offer regulated crypto services aligns with the European Union’s MiCA framework, which was fully implemented across the EU in late 2025. 

MiCA aims to provide comprehensive oversight for crypto-asset services, ensuring consumer protection, asset segregation, cybersecurity, and market integrity.

Although KBC is still operating under a transitional notification system, it plans to comply fully with the regulatory standards set out by the Financial Services and Markets Authority (FSMA) and the National Bank of Belgium (NBB).

Read Also: Futures Trading Strategies for Beginners: A Simple Guide to Getting Started

This step reflects KBC’s strategic vision of integrating crypto into traditional banking services while maintaining a strong focus on risk management. 

The launch of crypto services by KBC Bank is a major milestone in the EU’s broader efforts to integrate cryptocurrencies into the financial mainstream.

It signals that banks across Europe are beginning to embrace digital assets, offering retail clients secure access to crypto markets while ensuring adherence to regulatory standards.

Conclusion

KBC’s move to launch Bitcoin and Ethereum trading for retail clients is a significant step forward in the adoption of cryptocurrencies by mainstream financial institutions. 

As KBC leads the way in Belgium, this could open doors for other EU banks to follow suit, offering customers more secure and accessible options for investing in digital assets.

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FAQ

What cryptocurrencies can I trade on KBC’s Bolero platform?

Initially, KBC will offer Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) for trading on its Bolero platform.

Is KBC’s crypto service fully regulated?

Yes, KBC’s crypto services comply with the EU’s MiCA framework, ensuring strong regulatory oversight and investor protection.

What is a closed-loop system on Bolero?

A closed-loop system means that cryptocurrencies can only be bought, sold, and held within the Bolero platform, and cannot be transferred to external wallets or exchanges.

Do I need any prior knowledge to trade crypto on KBC?

Yes, KBC requires users to complete a knowledge and experience assessment to ensure they understand the risks involved in trading cryptocurrencies.

How does KBC ensure the security of my crypto assets?

KBC uses its proprietary custody solution to keep digital assets secure within the bank's ecosystem, adhering to industry standards for asset protection.

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