European Banks Surge into Regulated Crypto Markets

Banks in Europe are accelerating their push into regulated crypto markets, and data from ESMA's MiCA register shows they're doing so at a faster pace than non-bank providers. Between June 26 and September 16, the number of banks listed under the EU's MiCA framework doubled to about 80 from roughly 40.

During this same period, the total count of listed crypto-asset service providers (CASPs) climbed from 243 to 349, but banks gained share as non-bank providers' relative presence fell. Non-bank providers still represent the majority of entries, but their dominance narrowed as banks expanded at a faster pace.

Germany is leading this banking expansion, with both large lenders and regional cooperative banks adding MiCA-covered capabilities. Deutsche Bank announced plans to launch digital asset custody services for institutional and corporate clients in Europe, expecting regulatory approval under MiCA in October.