CaixaBank has received authorisation to operate as a crypto‑asset service provider (CASP) under the EU’s Markets in Crypto‑Assets Regulation (MiCA), allowing it to offer digital asset services within a defined regulatory framework.

The MiCA licence enables the Spanish bank to provide services including custody of crypto‑assets, execution of buy and sell orders, and transfers of digital assets.

CaixaBank said it plans to launch its crypto‑asset services in the coming months. These will be integrated into its existing digital channels, which serve more than 12 million users.

MiCA sets out common rules for crypto‑asset activity across the European Union and introduces measures aimed at strengthening investor protection. It also acknowledges the risks associated with digital assets, including market volatility, technology‑related vulnerabilities and the absence of investor compensation schemes.

CaixaBank said the authorisation aligns with its digital strategy and reflects growing customer demand for regulated access to crypto‑asset services. The bank has already enabled customers to gain exposure to Bitcoin through exchange‑traded products available via its digital banking platform.

The bank is also involved in wider digital currency projects. It is a participant in Qivalis, a consortium of European banks working on a euro‑linked stablecoin designed for blockchain‑based payments.

In addition, CaixaBank has collaborated with the European Central Bank on early‑stage work related to the proposed digital euro, including co‑developing a prototype peer‑to‑peer payment wallet.

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