Crypto.com Gains Dual EU Approvals, Launches Crypto Derivatives in Europe

Crypto.com has achieved a significant milestone in its European expansion strategy by securing two pivotal regulatory approvals: the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) license and the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID) license. These licenses authorize the platform to offer a comprehensive suite of cryptocurrency services, including regulated derivatives trading, across the European Economic Area (EEA).

The MiCA license, obtained in January 2025, enables Crypto.com to "passport" its services across all 27 EU member states under a unified regulatory framework. This development positions Crypto.com as the first major global crypto asset service provider to receive such approval, allowing it to offer services like crypto trading, custody, and payments throughout the EU.

Building on this foundation, Crypto.com announced on May 21 that it has secured a MiFID license, permitting the platform to offer regulated crypto derivatives trading within the EEA. This license was facilitated through the acquisition of Cyprus-based trading services firm A.N. Allnew Investments, approved by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC).

"We have already expanded our brand presence in Europe since receiving our MiCA licence and we now look forward to providing customers across the region even more ways to engage with our platform through these new offerings," said Crypto.com's co-founder and CEO, Kris Marszalek.

Crypto.com's approach mirrors a broader industry trend where crypto firms acquire regulated entities to expedite market entry. For instance, Kraken recently launched regulated derivatives trading in Europe by leveraging its MiFID II-regulated entity, Payward Europe Digital Solutions, following the acquisition of futures trading platform NinjaTrader.

Similarly, Coinbase has expanded its derivatives offerings through the acquisition of Deribit, one of the world's largest crypto derivatives platforms. Gemini is also enhancing its derivatives services across Europe.

Crypto.com's strategic acquisitions, including Fintek Securities, Charterprime, Orion Principals, and SEC-registered broker-dealer Watchdog Capital, underscore its commitment to regulatory compliance and market expansion.

The MiCA and MiFID licenses not only solidify Crypto.com's presence in Europe but also reflect the EU's evolving regulatory environment aimed at fostering innovation while ensuring consumer protection. The MiCA framework, effective since December 2024, seeks to harmonize crypto regulations across the EU, providing clarity for service providers and investors alike.

Germany has emerged as a leader in MiCA adoption, accounting for 36% of all licenses issued. This regulatory clarity is attracting more exchanges to the region, positioning the EU as a competitive hub for crypto innovation.

In contrast, the United Kingdom is lagging, with only four approvals out of 29 applications received by the Financial Conduct Authority in 2024. Experts suggest that while the UK is playing catch-up, it could benefit from observing the EU's regulatory framework to enhance its own policies.

With these regulatory approvals, Crypto.com is poised to offer a broader range of services to both retail and institutional clients across Europe. The company's expansion aligns with the growing demand for regulated crypto derivatives and reflects a strategic move to capitalize on the EU's comprehensive regulatory framework.

As the crypto industry continues to evolve, firms that proactively engage with regulatory bodies and secure necessary licenses are likely to gain a competitive edge. Crypto.com's recent achievements exemplify this approach, setting a precedent for other crypto service providers aiming to expand in regulated markets.