Bitvavo, a leading European cryptocurrency exchange, has obtained its Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) license from the Netherlands Authority for Financial Markets (AFM). This approval enables Bitvavo to operate across the European Union under the new regulatory framework, joining a growing list of compliant crypto platforms.
CEO Emphasizes Importance of Regulatory Harmonization
Mark Nuvelstijn, Bitvavo's Co-Founder and CEO, confirmed the licensing in an official statement:
"We fully support the core principles of MiCAR. For a level playing field in Europe, it is essential that the rules are formulated and enforced consistently across all member states."
Nuvelstijn highlighted that MiCA provides:
- Clear operational guidelines for exchanges
- Enhanced investor protection measures
- Standardized market practices across EU nations
👉 Discover how MiCA is transforming European crypto markets
Efficient Licensing Process Praised by Bitvavo Executives
Jeetan Patel, Chief Risk Officer at Bitvavo, described the approval process as "rigorous but efficient," noting:
"Through constructive collaboration with AFM, we've ensured full compliance with MiCAR's comprehensive requirements. The process progressed remarkably smoothly."
Key Benefits of MiCA Compliance:
- Legal certainty for businesses and users
- Cross-border operations within EU territories
- Standardized consumer protections
- Improved market stability
European Crypto Firms Embrace MiCA Framework
Bitvavo joins several major exchanges that recently obtained MiCA licenses:
| Exchange | Licensing Authority | Approval Date |
|---|---|---|
| Kraken | Central Bank of Ireland | June 2025 |
| Coinbase | CSSF Luxembourg | June 2025 |
| Bybit | Austrian FMA | May 2025 |
Industry analysts report a 70% quarter-on-quarter increase in EU trading volumes post-MiCA implementation, signaling renewed market confidence.
👉 Explore compliant crypto trading platforms
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does MiCA mean for crypto users?
A: It ensures standardized protections across EU exchanges, including fund safeguarding and transparency requirements.
Q: Can non-EU firms operate under MiCA?
A: Yes, but they must establish EU headquarters and comply with all regulations.
Q: How does MiCA affect stablecoins?
A: It introduces specific governance and reserve requirements for asset-referenced tokens.
Q: When did MiCA take full effect?
A: The regulatory framework became fully operational in January 2025.
Q: Does MiCA cover NFTs?
A: Currently, most NFTs fall outside MiCA's scope unless they function as financial instruments.
The MiCA framework represents Europe's most comprehensive effort to balance crypto innovation with consumer protection and market integrity.