Bitcoin Group unit's futurum bank loses BaFin MiCAR license bid

BaFin rejected futurum bank’s MiCAR crypto-asset services license application, ending regulatory forbearance for its crypto services. Decision threatens the business model of Bitcoin.de, operated by futurum bank; core trading has largely been suspended since June 12, 2026. futurum bank plans a partnership with a Germany-regulated institution to restart trading via the revamped Bitcoin.de app. Customer assets remain in futurum bank custody pending transfer to an alternative regulated custodian; customer claims remain unchanged. Bitcoin Group is reviewing the decision; futurum bank can appeal