Germany's Savings Bank Group lifts ban on encryption trading, plans to launch in summer 2026.

On June 30, according to reports, the Sparkasse Savings Bank Group decided to open Bitcoin and other crypto assets trading services to private customers, breaking the institution's long-standing ban. At the same time, the German cooperative banking system (Volks- und Raiffeisenbanken) has already begun developing related services and plans to officially launch them this summer.

The German Savings Banks Association (DSGV) announced on Monday: "The Savings Bank Financial Group will establish reliable channels for accessing regulated encryption services for cryptocurrencies." In the future, self-directed customers will be able to use the crypto services provided by its subsidiary DekaBank through the Savings Bank APP. This securities service company is jointly owned by savings banks from various regions. A spokesperson for DekaBank revealed that the relevant services are expected to be developed within a year, and customers may start cryptocurrency trading in the summer of 2026.

About three years ago, an internal committee of the savings bank system suggested not to offer Crypto Assets trading services to customers. However, recent signs indicate that interest in this area is heating up. Matthias Dießl, the chairman of the Bavarian Savings Bank Association, clearly stated in an interview in April: "Our savings banks should also provide customers with options for Crypto Assets trading."