Bitcoin.de Stays Offline as BaFin Turns Down Operator’s MiCA Authorization Request

Bitcoin Group SE says it is now searching for a different operating model for its bitcoin.de platform after Germany’s financial regulator BaFin denied its subsidiary futurum bank AG authorization as a crypto-asset service provider under MiCA. In an Oct. 6 announcement, the company called the ruling a setback but said it had prepared for a possible refusal. It is reviewing the decision and can file an objection or submit a fresh application later.

Bitcoin Group CEO Moritz Eckert said the priority is to put the alternative model in place and keep customers openly informed about next steps. The group is also working to restart trading through regulated partners as quickly as possible.

Bitcoin.de Trading Suspension Since June

Bitcoin.de, run by futurum bank, has more than 1.1 million registered users. It began as a peer-to-peer marketplace that matched buyers and sellers directly. This year the company rebuilt it as a brokerage, with plans to offer over 100 cryptocurrencies, swaps and staking, and a launch had been expected in late June. That launch was delayed while futurum bank waited for MiCA approval. An August update said customer crypto holdings had been moved to new custody infrastructure and the old trading system shut down. Trading has been largely suspended since June 12.