According to De Tijd, KBC is working on getting approval as a digital currency service provider under the EU’s new Markets in Crypto‑Assets (MiCA) rules.
KBC says it’s building in safeguards around security and know‑your‑customer checks to meet rules on anti‑money laundering.
Other big Belgian banks are watching closely. Belfius has shown interest in adding BTC via its Rebel app, but ING and BNP Paribas Fortis have stayed on the sidelines for now.
Retail investors have been asking their banks to offer crypto services for a while. KBC’s move could spark a wave of similar offers, or it might remain unique if regulators drag their feet.
Interest in bitcoin is highest among younger Belgians. A recent survey by the Financial Services and Markets Authority found that 43% of people under 29 already invest in crypto, and that number climbs to 45% for those under 30.
Many say they feel more comfortable trading familiar coins like Bitcoin rather than exploring smaller tokens. KBC hopes these stats will draw more clients to Bolero as it adds the digital currency option.
Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView
