CryptoSlate
BaFin rejected Futurum Bank AG’s application for authorization under the EU’s MiCA regime, ending the regulator’s previous tolerance of its crypto services. Bitcoin.de has already largely suspended trading since June 12. Customers can still withdraw crypto, but trading and euro deposits remain suspended.
Why it matters
The rejection forces a structural reset for Bitcoin.de’s operator. The platform plans to rely on two regulated German institutions: one to act as the trading counterparty and another to take custody of crypto. Bitcoin.de would retain its app, brand and customer interface, while partners take responsibility for regulated trading and custody functions.
That arrangement could keep the marketplace operating without Futurum Bank performing activities BaFin declined to authorize. Futurum Bank will continue holding assets until they are transferred to a new custodian. Existing logins and customer claims remain unaffected.
Market impact
Bitcoin.de says it serves more than 1.1 million customers, but has not named the partners or set a date for trading to resume. The agreements are still being finalized, and the company says the technical work for a relaunch is complete. Regulatory implementation remains the main barrier to restoring service.
The next milestones are a restart date, the return of euro deposits and the transfer of customer assets. Bitcoin Group and Futurum Bank are reviewing BaFin’s decision and may object within one month of formal notification. A fresh authorization application is also possible. Until the partner arrangements are completed, the extended halt risks pushing customers to other platforms.
Frequently asked questions
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Why did Bitcoin.de suspend trading and euro deposits?
BaFin rejected Futurum Bank AG’s application for MiCA authorization and ended its previous tolerance of the bank’s crypto services. Trading and euro deposits remain suspended.
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Can Bitcoin.de customers still access or withdraw their assets?
Customers can still withdraw crypto. Existing logins and customer claims remain unaffected, and Futurum Bank will hold assets until they are transferred to a new custodian.
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How does Bitcoin.de plan to restructure its operations?
Bitcoin.de plans to use two regulated German institutions, one for trading and another for crypto custody, while retaining its app, brand and customer interface.
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When will Bitcoin.de trading resume?
The company has not set a restart date. It says the partner agreements are being finalized and technical work is complete, with regulatory implementation still to be resolved.
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Can Futurum Bank challenge BaFin’s rejection?
Bitcoin Group and Futurum Bank are reviewing the decision and may object within one month of formal notification. A fresh authorization application is also possible.
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