Bitcoin und Co.: Sparkassen starten schrittweise Kryptohandel - mit Warnung

German savings banks, known as Sparkassen, are beginning to offer cryptocurrency trading services like Bitcoin and Ethereum, according to the Deutsche Sparkassen- und Giroverband (DSGV). Starting this Monday, the first customers will be able to trade cryptocurrencies through the existing Sparkassen app, with 30 to 40 more participating banks expected to join each month.

Initially, the offered cryptocurrencies will include Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, Solana, and Polygon, provided by the Sparkassen investment bank Dekabank. Joachim Schmalzl, a Managing Executive Director of the DSGV, stated that each Sparkasse decides on its own start date for the cryptocurrency offering. Schmalzl acknowledged the growing interest in the group, with more institutions expected to join each week by the first half of 2027.

Despite the popularity of cryptocurrencies, especially among young people, they remain highly volatile and risky investments. While some cryptocurrencies have performed well over the long term, critics warn of potential speculative bubbles. The DSGV emphasized that the offered cryptocurrencies are highly speculative assets, with customers explicitly warned about significant price fluctuations and the risk of total loss.

The Dekabank will safeguard the cryptocurrency assets in cooperation with the Stuttgart Exchange. The DSGV stated that the goal of the offering is to provide regulated access to customers who consciously choose to invest in cryptocurrencies. Customers would still primarily be offered traditional assets such as stocks, savings plans, and professional advice for long-term wealth building.