KBC Group NV will enable Bitcoin and Ethereum trading for Belgian retail investors through its Bolero brokerage platform starting February 16, 2026. This makes KBC the first major Belgian bank to offer direct cryptocurrency access, with transactions carrying a 1.5% fee - below most standalone crypto exchanges.

All users must complete a knowledge test on cryptocurrency risks before trading. The FSMA-approved framework includes:

"We're providing regulated access to digital assets as part of diversified portfolios," stated Bolero CEO Peter De Keyzer. The phased rollout plans to add five more cryptocurrencies by Q4 2026.

KBC shares have gained 14% YTD to €106.60, outperforming the BEL20's 6% rise. The current price sits 11% below the €120 analyst target. The move targets Belgium's €1.2 billion retail crypto market, where most activity currently occurs on unregulated offshore platforms.

Unlike competitors focusing on institutional services, KBC's retail-first approach through its established brokerage could accelerate mainstream crypto adoption in Benelux markets while addressing security concerns following recent exchange collapses.