UniCredit Eyes Crypto Expansion Amid Industry Shift

Italian banking giant UniCredit is considering expanding its cryptocurrency services to include custody and brokerage offerings. The bank has begun searching for a technology partner to safeguard digital assets and execute customer transactions.

UniCredit has already introduced some crypto-related products, such as a Bitcoin-linked investment certificate in July 2025 and Italy's first tokenized minibond on public blockchain infrastructure in December 2025. Additionally, the bank is part of Qivalis consortium, which plans to launch a MiCA-compliant euro stablecoin on Ethereum by late 2026.

UniCredit's move follows similar strategies from other major banks, such as Deutsche Bank and BBVA, which have partnered with companies like Taurus and Galaxy for digital asset storage solutions. The bank has also acquired a minority ownership position in VC Trade, a platform specializing in bond and loan digitization.