One of Belgium’s largest banks, KBC, will launch the option for retail clients to buy and sell leading digital assets by market capitalization starting February 16.
The institution will implement the option in accordance with the set of European rules MiCA and based on its own platform, Bolero.
“This will allow self-directed investors in Belgium to invest in cryptocurrencies in a safe and fully regulated environment, marking the first such instance in the country,” the press release states.
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 popular search 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. However, they must pass tests on knowledge, experience, and awareness of potential risks.
“We have noticed that digitally-oriented clients are particularly interested in this type of product. As a platform for self-directed investors, we offer them full control over their investments, without consultations, but with necessary support,” explained Bolero CEO Céline Pfister.
To mitigate fraud risks and involvement in money laundering, the platform uses a closed system—users buy and sell cryptocurrency exclusively within Bolero. The service employs strict KYC and AML procedures.
Back in September 2025, KBC joined a banking consortium aimed at launching a euro stablecoin.