The rollout allows German retail clients to invest in crypto-linked instruments using traditional brokerage accounts, eliminating the need for private wallets, crypto exchanges, or direct custody of digital assets.
What Exactly ING Germany Rolled Out
ING’s new offering gives retail customers access to crypto ETPs that track the price performance of Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana. These products are listed on regulated German exchanges and can be traded during standard market hours, just like stocks or ETFs.
Rather than buying crypto outright, investors purchase securities backed by underlying digital assets. This structure appeals to investors who want price exposure without dealing with blockchain transactions, seed phrases, or cybersecurity risks.
As of 2025, more than 60 crypto-related ETPs are listed across German exchanges, making Germany the largest regulated crypto ETP market in Europe by product count.
Why This Move Matters for Retail Investors
Germany has approximately 12 million active retail investors, and surveys show that nearly 18% of them have considered crypto investments but hesitated due to complexity or security concerns. ING’s move directly addresses those barriers.
By integrating crypto ETPs into its existing investment platform, ING simplifies access while maintaining familiar risk disclosures and compliance standards. For retail investors, this means:
No direct crypto custody risk
Transparent pricing through public exchanges
Tax reporting aligned with traditional securities
This setup is especially attractive for long-term investors seeking diversification rather than speculative trading.
The Numbers Behind Crypto ETP Growth in Europe
The European crypto ETP market has seen steady growth despite broader market volatility. By the end of 2024:
Total assets under management in European crypto ETPs exceeded €15 billion
Bitcoin-linked products accounted for roughly 70% of total crypto ETP volume
Ethereum products represented about 20%, with Solana and other assets making up the remainder
Germany alone accounts for nearly 40% of all European crypto ETP trading volume, reinforcing its role as the region’s regulated crypto hub.
Why Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana Were Chosen
The selection reflects both market demand and liquidity considerations.
Bitcoin remains the most widely held digital asset globally, with over 50 million estimated holders worldwide. Ethereum dominates decentralized application infrastructure, processing billions of dollars in on-chain activity monthly. Solana, while newer, has gained attention for high transaction throughput and lower fees, particularly in decentralized finance and digital asset applications.
Together, these three assets cover the majority of crypto market capitalization and investor interest.
Regulatory Context Strengthens Confidence
All crypto ETPs available through ING Germany operate under strict European financial regulations. This includes full prospectus disclosures, exchange oversight, and segregation of assets.
This regulatory clarity has become increasingly important following past crypto exchange failures. Data shows that over 65% of European retail investors now prefer regulated crypto products over offshore platforms, even if fees are slightly higher.
What This Signals for the Banking Industry
ING’s decision reflects a broader shift in traditional finance. European banks are no longer debating whether cryptocurrency exposure belongs in retail portfolios but how to offer it safely.
Analysts expect more banks to follow suit in 2025 as client demand rises and regulatory frameworks stabilize. While direct crypto trading may still be limited, ETPs are rapidly becoming the preferred gateway.
0 Comments