DZ BANK has taken a significant step toward bringing cryptocurrencies into Germany’s cooperative banking sector after securing MiCAR authorisation from BaFin at the end of December 2025.
The approval allows the bank to operate its new crypto platform, meinKrypto, under the European Union’s regulatory framework.
Key takeaways
DZ BANK has received MiCAR authorisation to operate a regulated crypto platform
meinKrypto enables cooperative banks to offer crypto trading to retail customers
Each local bank must submit its own notification before launching the service
Rather than targeting end customers directly, meinKrypto is designed as shared infrastructure for the cooperative financial network. Individual Volksbank and Raiffeisenbank institutions can use the platform to offer crypto trading to retail clients, provided each bank submits and receives its own MiCAR notification approval from BaFin.
How meinKrypto Will Work for Retail Customers
Once rolled out, customers will be able to buy and sell crypto assets fully digitally through the existing VR Banking App. The service is positioned as a self-directed investment option rather than part of traditional advisory offerings, effectively functioning as an integrated crypto wallet within the banking app.
At launch, the platform will support a limited selection of major crypto assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and Cardano. Each cooperative bank will retain full discretion over whether to activate the service for its customers.
The technical and operational setup reflects a collaborative model. meinKrypto was developed jointly by DZ BANK and Atruvia, the cooperative sector’s central IT provider. Custody of digital assets is handled by Boerse Stuttgart Digital Custody, while trade execution runs through EUWAX.
Overall, the move signals a cautious but structured approach to crypto adoption within Germany’s cooperative banking system, blending regulatory compliance with optional, bank-led access for retail investors.
