Discovery Bank crypto trading launches in December 2025, enabling South African customers to buy, hold, and sell over 50 cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum directly in the mobile app via a partnership with Luno, marking the first such integration in Africa.
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Seamless integration: Customers link accounts for instant crypto transactions without fees.
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Real-time tracking of balances and secure wallet storage powered by Luno’s platform.
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Over 10% of South Africans own crypto, aligning with global standards and FSCA regulations (source: Discovery Bank statement).
Discover how Discovery Bank crypto trading revolutionizes access to digital assets in South Africa. Start trading Bitcoin and more directly in the app from December 2025—secure, compliant, and user-friendly.
What is Discovery Bank crypto trading?
Discovery Bank crypto trading is a groundbreaking feature allowing customers to buy, hold, and sell over 50 cryptocurrencies directly within the bank’s mobile app, launching in December 2025 through a partnership with Luno. This integration provides seamless access to assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum, with real-time balance tracking and fee-free transfers. It positions Discovery Bank as the first in South Africa to offer such direct in-app trading, enhancing financial inclusion in the evolving digital economy.
How does the Discovery Bank and Luno partnership work for crypto users?
The partnership between Discovery Bank and Luno enables customers to link their bank accounts securely to Luno’s compliant platform, facilitating instant purchases and sales of cryptocurrencies without leaving the app. Users benefit from robust security measures, including real-time fraud detection via the bank’s TRUST Alert system, which analyzes transaction patterns and user behavior to prevent unauthorized activities. According to Discovery Bank CEO Hylton Kallner, “The financial world is evolving fast, and crypto assets have matured to become an accessible, mainstream asset class,” noting that one in ten South Africans already owns crypto, supported by regulations from the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) that align with international standards. Luno CEO James Lanigan emphasized, “This partnership is the first of its kind in Africa, giving clients safeguards to trade confidently alongside over 15 million users across Africa, Asia, and Europe.” The service supports over 50 cryptocurrencies, allows earning Vitality Money Savings points on holdings, and ensures all transactions meet FSCA licensing requirements introduced in 2023 to protect consumers and promote market integrity.
This feature gives the bank’s customers access to over 50 cryptocurrencies and lets them trade directly in the app.
Discovery Bank is set to become the first bank in South Africa to allow customers to trade cryptocurrencies directly through its mobile app starting in December 2025. The service is being launched in partnership with London-based crypto exchange Luno.
According to the bank, users will be able to link their accounts and buy, hold, or sell digital assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum straight from the Discovery Bank app.
Access to over 50 cryptocurrencies
“The financial world is evolving fast, and crypto assets have matured to become an accessible, mainstream asset class,” Discovery Bank CEO Hylton Kallner said in a statement. He added that one in ten South Africans already own crypto, and that the rules in the country follow global standards.
The new feature will let customers trade over 50 different types of cryptocurrencies. They will be able to track their balances and transactions in real time, move money instantly without paying fees, and earn Vitality Money Savings points for the crypto they hold in safe Luno wallets.
James Lanigan, CEO of Luno, said the partnership is the first of its kind in Africa. He explained that it gives clients safeguards to trade confidently alongside over 15 million Luno users across Africa, Asia, and Europe.
“This partnership is a clear signal that crypto has moved from a niche to a mainstream investment choice,” Lanigan said.
Growth and adoption amid competition
Discovery Bank, launched in 2021, recorded its first profit in the second half of its financial year ending June 30, 2023. It is competing with other banks, including Absa, First National Bank, Standard Bank, Capitec, and Old Mutual.
The Financial Sector Conduct Authority started giving licenses to crypto service providers in 2023 to protect consumers and follow international rules. Discovery Bank said its crypto service meets these rules and has strong safety measures.
In March, the bank introduced TRUST Alert, a security system that monitors transactions for potential fraud. Each payment or transfer is analyzed in real time based on patterns, behavior, and other safety data, with warnings displayed to clients when necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can South Africans start Discovery Bank crypto trading in the app?
Discovery Bank crypto trading becomes available in December 2025, allowing customers to access over 50 digital assets directly through the mobile app in partnership with Luno. This timeline ensures compliance with FSCA regulations and provides a secure launch for users interested in Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more.
Is it safe to buy crypto through the Discovery Bank app with Luno?
Yes, buying crypto through the Discovery Bank app is safe, thanks to Luno’s secure platform and the bank’s TRUST Alert system that monitors for fraud in real time. Customers enjoy protections aligned with global standards, serving over 15 million users worldwide without additional fees for transfers.
Key Takeaways
- First in Africa: Discovery Bank’s integration with Luno pioneers direct in-app crypto trading for South African users.
- Extensive options: Access to over 50 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and Ethereum, with real-time tracking and rewards like Vitality points.
- Regulatory compliance: Fully licensed under FSCA guidelines, ensuring consumer protection and secure transactions for mainstream adoption.
Conclusion
As Discovery Bank crypto trading rolls out in December 2025, it underscores the growing maturity of digital assets in South Africa, where one in ten residents already holds crypto. This Luno partnership not only enhances accessibility but also reinforces safety through advanced monitoring and global standards. Financial institutions like Discovery Bank are paving the way for broader adoption—customers should prepare to explore these opportunities and diversify their portfolios confidently.
