OKX and Crypto.com obtain full MiCA licenses for regulated crypto services in EU
The MiCA license represents a significant step in the evolution of the crypto industry in Europe
On January 27, 2025, major cryptocurrency exchanges OKX and Crypto.com announced that they had successfully obtained full licenses under the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA).
These licenses of OKX and Crypto.com, granted by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), enable the exchanges to offer fully regulated cryptocurrency services to users across the European Economic Area (EEA).
A key milestone for crypto regulation in the EU
MiCA, a landmark regulatory framework for crypto-assets, is designed to provide clarity and stability for digital asset markets in the EU. The "passporting" feature of MiCA is particularly significant, allowing licensed exchanges to operate across all EU member states with a unified regulatory approach.
Both OKX and Crypto.com have confirmed that they will use this feature to expand their services throughout the region, making crypto access more streamlined for European users.
OKX plans to offer a range of services including over-the-counter (OTC) trading, spot trading, and bot trading, all tailored to the needs of the EEA. Crypto.com has also committed to providing a wide range of crypto services, ensuring comprehensive access for users.
Strategic significance for both exchanges
The MiCA license represents a significant step in the evolution of the crypto industry in Europe. OKX Europe CEO Erald Ghoos emphasized the importance of this regulatory milestone, noting that it establishes a strong foundation for the region's digital asset market. Ghoos pointed to Europe as a cornerstone for blockchain and digital asset innovation. Similarly, Crypto.com President Eric Anziani praised the EU's foresight in implementing MiCA, which he said would streamline operations and improve compliance for crypto businesses.
With both OKX and Crypto.com now fully licensed under MiCA, these exchanges are positioned to expand their influence in the European market.
Austrian fintech platform Bitpanda also announced that it received a MiCA license on January 27.
As the regulatory landscape continues to evolve, it will be crucial to observe how MiCA enforcement impacts the broader crypto ecosystem and whether other exchanges follow suit. The success of MiCA could signal a new era of regulatory clarity that fosters greater trust and stability within the industry.
We have previously informed OKX edges closer to receiving full MiCA license.
