KBC Group Plans Ethereum Trading Launch Via Bolero Platform

KBC Group, Belgium’s second-largest bank, will offer Ethereum trading for retail customers under the EU’s MiCA regulation starting February 16, 2026, via its Bolero platform.

This move positions KBC as a pioneer in Belgium’s crypto market, responding to rising demand for regulated digital asset trading.

KBC Group, Belgium’s second-largest bank, announced its plan to offer Ethereum and Bitcoin trading. The initiative will launch in February 2026 via the Bolero platform following the approval of EU’s MiCA regulation.

The process involved Erik Luts, KBC’s Chief Innovation Officer, who noted that the service will operate within a regulated framework. Celine Pfister, CEO of Bolero platform, highlighted the demand among digitally oriented customers.

Initial Offerings and Regulation

The launch is not expected to impact on-chain data such as liquidity or staking flows. It will employ a closed-loop custody model to ensure security, focusing on fraud and laundering mitigation by conducting rigorous KYC/KYT checks.

“By offering the opportunity to purchase and sell crypto within a regulated framework, we are making innovation concrete and accessible.” — Erik Luts, Chief Innovation Officer, KBC Group

Belgium’s FSMA and the National Bank will oversee this new service compliant with MiCA rules. These efforts align with financial and regulatory strategies evolving across the European Union, as noted in recent updates from ESMA.

Broader European Context

In the European context, Germany’s DZ Bank is implementing a similar strategy for their crypto service. These actions signify significant interest among retail customers in regulated crypto markets. The implementation of MiCA regulation within EU member states could foster innovation. It offers insights into enhanced security frameworks and potential technological advancements, paving the way for wider cryptocurrency adoption across regulated sectors.