BBVA Recommends Clients Allocate up to 7% to Crypto

Spanish bank BBVA is advising wealthy clients to invest up to 7% of their portfolios in crypto. The move follows regulatory approval to offer digital asset trading in Spain.

BBVA expands crypto advisory for private clients

BBVA has started advising affluent clients to allocate between 3% and 7% of their portfolios to cryptocurrencies. The recommendation depends on individual risk profiles, according to BBVA Switzerland’s Philippe Meyer.

Meyer noted that client response has been positive and downplayed concerns about crypto’s volatility. “Just 3% already improves portfolio performance,” he said at a London conference.

BBVA pushes ahead despite EU warnings

While most EU banks remain cautious due to regulatory risk, BBVA continues to expand. Spain’s securities regulator approved the bank’s crypto services in March 2025.

Currently offered to select clients, these services will soon be integrated into BBVA’s mobile app, allowing users to buy and manage Bitcoin and Ethereum.

MiCA rules and wider adoption

The move comes as the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation reached full effect in late 2024. Companies have until July 2026 to fully comply.

Other banks like Santander are also entering the crypto space. Santander is exploring the launch of stablecoins pegged to the euro and dollar, and expanding retail crypto products.