The German federal elections on 23 February, 2025 will be an important turning point not only politically but for Germany’s crypto and financial landscape.
The election outcome will determine whether Germany continues to tighten regulations for Bitcoin and cryptocurrency trading, or if it moves toward a decentralised, more open financial system.
After the coalition of former Chancellor Olaf Scholz collapsed, there was uncertainty about policy.
In Germany, as the country prepares for its election, there is a division among key parties on crypto. Some want to de-regulate, while others prefer stricter regulation.
Cryptocurrency and political instability
Germany’s cryptocurrency sector has reached a turning point, as major financial institutions such as Deutsche Bank and DZ Bank have already integrated blockchain-based solutions.
The German Banking Act (BaFin), and its strict rules, continue to present challenges for digital asset investors and business owners.
The next election is expected to see 630 seats in the parliamentary chamber contested. A majority of 316 votes will be required.
Social Democrats, Greens and Free Democrats have traditionally favored stronger regulations in the financial sector, whereas the Alternative for Germany, which includes the AfD, has advocated a market-friendly strategy.
After the election, this divide will have a major impact on Germany’s position regarding Bitcoin, Stablecoins and Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDCs).
AfD backs deregulation
According to Polymarket’s prediction platform, the right-wing Alternative for Germany party (AfD), is emerging as an important player. It ranks second in most polls.
AfD’s crypto policies are in sharp contrast with other major parties’, since they support minimal government involvement in the digital asset markets.
Germany’s Bitcoin and Decentralised Finance (DeFi), applications, could be relaxed if AfD has a significant impact on the new government.
The party also opposes the digital euro project of the European Central Bank (ECB), arguing for cash to remain as the predominant form of payment.
It could lead to a confrontation between Germany and EU regulators who actively promote digital finance reforms.
AfD’s crypto-friendly position is in line with the trends observed in other countries, such as the US where Republican legislators have pushed increasingly for deregulation of financial markets.
Germany, if AfD wins power, could be one of the EU’s most progressive nations when it comes to blockchain technology. This would attract more investment into the country.
Greens call for accountability
The Greens, on the other hand, oppose deregulation.
The party proposed the creation of a national body that would combat financial crimes related to cryptography, such as tax evasion and money laundering.
The move was made in response to the growing concern about illicit financial activity linked to digital assets.
In the Greens plan, they propose to strengthen collaboration with EU officials in order to supervise crypto exchanges as well as enforce laws against money laundering.
A stronger oversight push could hinder anonymous transactions, and the operation of decentralised exchanges.
The outcome of the election will decide whether Germany adopts a crypto-friendly strategy like AfD or instead moves toward increased regulatory oversight.
Germany’s policies in the future will have a direct impact on institutional investment and retail investments as Deutsche Bank, and other large financial institutions enter into the crypto-space.
The post Germany’s elections will reshape Bitcoin and crypto policies? This post may change as events unfold.
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