1. Bitpanda
- Overview: Austrian broker founded in 2014, now valued in the billions and offering a broad suite of digital asset services.
- Highlights: Licensed across the EU (including BaFin oversight), supports over 390 cryptocurrencies, and offers additional services like ETFs, crypto indices, a Visa debit card, and savings plans.
- Why it stands out in Germany: Local payment options like Sofort and Giropay, low entry threshold (as little as €1), and robust regulatory backing make Bitpanda hugely popular among German users.
2. Kraken (via DLT Finance)
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Overview: Global U.S.-based exchange with a strong European presence, now serviced through German-licensed entities DLT Securities GmbH and Custody GmbH.
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Recent update: From August 1, 2025, Kraken services for Germany will be transitioned to its MiCA-regulated Irish entity, Payward Europe Solutions Limited, granting enhanced EU protection and access to 190+ additional assets and OTC services.
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Strengths: Deep asset support, futures and margin trading, strong institutional-level controls with local licensing.
3. Börse Stuttgart – BISON App
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Overview: Germany’s traditional stock exchange group expanded into crypto under the “Börse Stuttgart Digital” umbrella.
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Why it matters: Launched the BISON app for retail clients and now operates under full BaFin and MiCA licensing for custody and trading services.
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Advantages: Local German infrastructure, strong regulatory oversight, and growing trust among users.
4. Trade Republic
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Overview: A rising fintech player, recently granted a full BaFin license for crypto services under MiCA.
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What it offers: Enables custody, order execution, and crypto transfers across Germany and the entire EEA.
5. Crypto Finance (Deutschland) GmbH
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Overview: Subsidiary of the Swiss Crypto Finance Group, holding BaFin licenses for trading, settlement, and custody.
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Focus: Institutional-grade services, delivering a regulated one-stop solution that meets Germany’s rigorous standards.
| Platform | Regulatory Status | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Bitpanda | EU-wide licenses + BaFin oversight | Wide asset access, low entry barrier |
| Kraken (via DLT / Payward) | DLT licensed; transitioning to MiCA | Asset variety, advanced trading |
| Bison (Börse Stuttgart) | Full BaFin + MiCA compliance | Local trust, institutional brand |
| Trade Republic | New BaFin + MiCA license | Integrated fintech + crypto access |
| Crypto Finance (DE) | BaFin-licensed custody & trading | Institutional trading services |
Regulatory Landscape & Institutional Moves in Germany
MiCA and BaFin: Shaping the Crypto Landscape
Germany fully adopted the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework, increasing regulatory clarity and investor protections. Platforms offering crypto services must now comply with MiCA or hold BaFin licenses.
Deutsche Börse’s Clearstream: Institutional Focus
In April 2025, Deutsche Börse’s settlement arm, Clearstream, began offering custody and settlement for Bitcoin and Ether for institutional clients, with Crypto Finance acting as sub-custodian.
This move underscores the growing institutional trust in regulated crypto in Germany, aligned with MiCA implementation.
Final Recommendations for German Crypto Investors
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For regulated, user-friendly trading → Bitpanda and BISON are top choices due to local oversight, easy onboarding, and robust service offerings.
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For advanced traders seeking deep assets and flexibility → Kraken (especially post-August 2025) and Crypto Finance offer rich trading capabilities under strong regulation.
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For integrated fintech and investment convenience → Trade Republic is a growing, well-regulated option ideal for mobile-first users.
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For institutions or pro-grade custody → Platforms like Crypto Finance and Clearstream offer compliant, high-standard infrastructure.
