TL;DR
BitGo Europe has received regulatory approval from Germany’s BaFin to expand its operations into regulated cryptocurrency trading. The move allows the Frankfurt-based firm to provide both over-the-counter (OTC) trading and an electronic trading platform for a wide range of digital assets, including major cryptocurrencies and stablecoins. The platform also offers advanced portfolio management tools and reporting features, enhancing transparency for institutional clients while supporting more complex trading strategies.
The new license adds trading to BitGo’s existing suite of services, which includes custody, staking, and asset transfers. Institutional investors across the European Union can now access liquidity directly through BitGo’s platform, combining safe storage with efficient trading execution. The integration is designed to streamline operations for pension funds, asset managers, and other institutional participants, who can now trade and settle within a fully regulated environment without needing multiple custodians or exchange accounts. BitGo is also introducing enhanced support for stablecoins, facilitating faster settlement and reduced transaction costs.
Earlier this year, BitGo partnered with custody specialist Copper to expand an “in-custody” trading network. This system allows assets to be traded while remaining under secure, ring-fenced custody. Competitors like Coinbase and Kraken have also developed similar European trading and custody platforms, but BitGo’s approach emphasizes combining regulatory compliance with deep liquidity and institutional-grade execution.
The BaFin approval builds on BitGo’s May 2025 Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) license, reinforcing the company’s commitment to providing legally compliant crypto services in Europe. Brett Reeves, BitGo’s head of European sales, highlighted the importance of regulatory oversight, stating that institutions require both liquidity and assurance of proper governance.
By offering trading alongside custody and staking, BitGo aims to create a secure and efficient ecosystem for institutional crypto activity. The company also plans to expand its educational programs and technical support, helping new institutional clients navigate the complex European regulatory environment with confidence.
Analysts suggest this expansion could make European institutional adoption of crypto smoother by minimizing operational friction. Instead of dealing with multiple platforms and custody arrangements, investors can now access a unified system that maintains regulatory standards while providing a comprehensive trading experience.
Also read: UK Sets Stage for Crypto Oversight as FCA Opens Industry Consultation
