Cryptocurrencies in Europe are gradually moving from the periphery of the financial system closer to mainstream banking services. A new survey by Börse Stuttgart Digital shows that digital assets now influence clients’ decisions about which banks to entrust their money to. However, they also face persistent distrust and regulatory uncertainty.
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Cryptocurrencies as a factor in choosing a bank
According to the survey, which involved approximately 6,000 investors from Germany, Italy, Spain, and France, up to 35% of respondents would consider switching banks if another institution offered better access to cryptocurrencies. Digital assets are thus beginning to play a role not only as an investment tool, but also as a criterion when choosing a financial partner.
At the same time, nearly one in five investors expects their main bank to offer the option to invest in cryptocurrencies within the next three years. This suggests that cryptocurrencies are gradually becoming part of the standard banking relationship—at least among those clients who are open to digital assets.
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Regulation and lack of information hinder adoption
Despite growing interest, cryptocurrencies still face fundamental barriers. As many as 76% of respondents consider the cryptocurrency market insufficiently regulated, and more than 60% of investors feel poorly informed about this area.
It is precisely this combination of regulatory uncertainty and low financial literacy in digital assets that is slowing their broader acceptance among mainstream users.
MiCA strengthens investor confidence
European legislation is attempting to change the situation. The Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation, which came into full effect on December 30, 2024, aims to harmonize rules for cryptocurrency services across the European Union.
According to the survey, nearly 50% of investors stated that MiCA has increased their confidence in cryptocurrencies and made them “safer and more attractive.”
“Trust and clear regulation are key to the next phase of cryptocurrency adoption in Europe. MiCA brings the transparency and legal certainty that investors expect,” said Matthias Voelkel, CEO of the Börse Stuttgart Group.
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Traditional finance gradually opening up to crypto
The results come at a time when traditional financial institutions in Europe are gradually expanding their cryptocurrency activities. Börse Stuttgart Digital, for example, announced in January 2025 that it became the first German provider to obtain a pan-European license under MiCA through its custody division. This positioned it among regulated infrastructure providers for banks, brokers, and asset managers.
Spain shows the highest crypto interest
Banks – The survey also reveals differences between individual countries. Spain has the highest cryptocurrency adoption rate, with nearly 28% of investors owning digital assets. Germany follows with 25%, Italy with 24%, and France with 23%.
Overall, 25% of respondents said they have already invested in cryptocurrencies, and 36% plan further investments within the next five years. Interest in digital assets thus persists despite market volatility.
Europe keeps pace with the global market
According to a Chainalysis report from October 2025, Europe ranks among major cryptocurrency regions. Russia recorded the largest transaction volume with a value of $376 billion between July 2024 and June 2025. The United Kingdom follows with $273 billion and Germany with $219 billion.
The data clearly shows that cryptocurrencies are increasingly gaining ground in Europe, both at the level of individual investors and within financial infrastructure.
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