EU Expands Crypto Foothold As New Players Enter The Digital Asset Landscape

The EU crypto landscape witnessed a remarkable surge in 2023, with almost 1,000 new virtual asset services providers (VASPs) registering across Europe. Meanwhile, the latest data from DL News reveals a robust expansion, bringing the total number of registered crypto entities to at least 11,597 in the 27-member bloc.

Notably, this influx precedes the upcoming implementation of the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets law (MiCA) in December 2024, setting the stage for intense competition among member states vying to attract crypto entrepreneurs.

EU Crypto Ecosystem Flourishes as MiCA Looms

As 2023 draws to a close, Europe celebrates a substantial uptick in crypto registrations, showcasing the dynamic growth of virtual asset services providers. DL News’ analysis reveals an impressive addition of nearly 1,000 crypto entities during the year, contributing to a total of 11,597 registered across the EU crypto scene.

Notably, this surge comes ahead of the impending implementation of the pioneering Markets in Crypto-Assets law (MiCA) in December 2024, hailed as the EU’s first comprehensive regulation for crypto assets.

Meanwhile, MiCA is poised to set new standards across the EU, introducing regulations that will govern firms offering crypto services to the bloc’s population of 450 million. In addition, the law’s passporting rules will enable compliant firms to operate seamlessly across member states. However, the competitive landscape is likely to shift, as countries aim to attract crypto entrepreneurs seeking to leverage MiCA’s regulatory framework.

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Czechia Dominates, MiCA Set to Reshape the Game

Czechia emerges as a frontrunner in the European crypto registration race, boasting 9,372 VASPs. However, the data reflects a significant portion of individuals rather than companies, potentially skewing the results.

In addition, Poland closely follows with 1,067 crypto service providers, experiencing a notable uptick in registrations in the last quarter of 2023. Despite current leaders, MiCA’s impending regulations may alter the playing field, excluding individuals from obtaining licenses and emphasizing standards on capital requirements, internal controls, and governance.

Meanwhile, as the EU prepares for this regulatory milestone, the cryptocurrency landscape anticipates a transformative shift in the coming years.

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