BBVA Launches Bitcoin and Ether Trading and Custody Services in Spain
Madrid, July 7, 2025 – BBVA, one of Spain’s leading financial institutions, has officially launched new cryptocurrency trading and custody services for retail customers in Spain, enabling users to buy, sell, and securely hold Bitcoin and Ether directly through the BBVA mobile app. This strategic move marks a significant milestone in BBVA’s ongoing digital transformation and expansion into the crypto-asset space.
Integrated Crypto Services Within the BBVA App
After fulfilling regulatory disclosure requirements with Spain’s National Securities Market Commission (CNMV), BBVA initiated a phased rollout of its cryptocurrency services. Clients can now manage Bitcoin and Ether transactions seamlessly within a fully integrated framework that complements the bank’s broad suite of financial offerings. By embedding these crypto services into the familiar BBVA digital banking environment, the bank aims to deliver a simple and user-friendly solution that meets the needs of a diverse customer base.
Commitment to Regulatory Compliance and Investor Protection
BBVA’s new offering is designed in accordance with the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-assets Regulation (MiCA), which governs the issuance and service provision related to crypto-assets throughout the EU. MiCA ensures enhanced safeguards for investors by setting clear standards and compliance requirements. While the bank facilitates trading and custody services, it does not provide investment advice on cryptocurrencies. Access to crypto services is strictly customer-initiated via the BBVA app, reflecting the bank’s commitment to responsible innovation and regulatory adherence.
Background: A Decade of Blockchain Innovation
BBVA’s entrance into the crypto market builds on a strong foundation of blockchain expertise accumulated over the last ten years. In 2021, BBVA Switzerland launched a Bitcoin trading desk and custody service initially catering to private banking clients, later expanding its scope to include Ether and the stablecoin USDC. In 2023, Garanti BBVA, the group’s Turkish subsidiary, established a specialized company offering a comprehensive array of crypto assets, such as Bitcoin, Ether, USDC, Solana, XRP, AVAX, and Chiliz. Spain now represents the third country where BBVA has extended its digital asset services, signaling the group’s broader ambition to support digital asset adoption while ensuring security and compliance.
Strategic Vision and Market Outlook
By enabling Spanish customers to invest conveniently in digital assets via their smartphones, BBVA’s new services reflect a strategic response to growing demand for crypto investment within a regulated, secure banking environment. The bank’s move aligns with its mission to foster innovation in financial technology and contribute to the exploration of digital assets as an integral component of the future financial landscape.
Approved by the CNMV in March 2025 to offer custody and execution services for crypto trading orders, BBVA carefully completed all required formalities before opening the service to a limited user group, gradually extending availability to all private customers in Spain.
About BBVA:
BBVA is a leading global financial group committed to innovation and the digital transformation of banking services. With a strong track record in blockchain technology and digital assets, BBVA continues to invest in offering comprehensive, secure, and regulatory-compliant financial products to its customers.
About The Paypers:
The Paypers is a Netherlands-based independent media company providing news and intelligence to professionals in the global payments, fintech, and ecommerce industries. It delivers timely, reliable insights aimed at keeping the professional community informed about the latest industry developments.
For more information and updates on crypto, Web3, and CBDC trends, visit The Paypers’ Crypto, Web3 and CBDC section.