Spanish banking giant BBVA has become the first major European bank to offer direct cryptocurrency trading to retail clients through its existing trading platforms. In a strategic partnership with Singapore’s SGX FX, BBVA now allows customers to trade Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) 24/7 under the same framework it uses for foreign exchange (FX) trading.
This move positions BBVA at the forefront of the digital finance revolution, as demand for crypto assets continues to rise among individual investors and institutions alike.
Seamless Crypto Integration for Traditional Banking Clients
The collaboration between BBVA and SGX FX, a leading provider of FX infrastructure, means clients can now access digital assets without needing to use third-party platforms or wallets. SGX FX’s expertise in pricing, aggregation, and risk management allows BBVA to incorporate crypto into its offering without needing to overhaul its core systems.
By using the same infrastructure as traditional FX trading, BBVA ensures a smooth and familiar experience for customers—an important step in building trust in digital assets. Crypto trading will be available 24/7, offering flexibility and accessibility far beyond traditional market hours.
MiCA Regulation Opens the Door for Regulated Crypto Expansion
The move comes as the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation begins to reshape how regulated financial institutions can engage with crypto. These new rules create a clear legal framework, making it easier for banks like BBVA to offer regulated digital asset services.
Luis Martins, BBVA’s Global Head of Macro Trading, highlighted the significance of this shift:
“Digital assets are becoming an integral part of the global financial system. Our customers want to trade these assets with the same trusted system they already use.”
By aligning with SGX FX and leveraging its secure infrastructure, BBVA is not just responding to client demand—it’s helping shape the future of banking in Europe.
