Dutch cryptocurrency exchange Bitvavo has received the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) license from the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets, enabling it to provide digital asset trading services across all 30 member states of the European Economic Area.
Receiving MiCA License
With the MiCA license, Bitvavo becomes one of the first exchanges to comply with this regulatory standard, allowing the company to legally offer cryptocurrency trading, custodial services, and other digital asset offerings. CEO Mark Nuvelstijn noted that this is a 'milestone' not just for Bitvavo, but for the maturing European crypto landscape.
Assessment of the Licensing Process
Bitvavo's Chief Risk Officer Jeetan Patel expressed gratitude to the AFM for its professionalism during the application process. He described the licensing journey as thorough and efficient: 'We highly value the constructive collaboration with the AFM. It has progressed efficiently.'
Bitvavo's Expansion Plans
With the MiCA license in hand, Bitvavo plans to accelerate its European expansion, focusing on entering new EEA markets such as Germany and France, launching new fiat gateways, and partnering with traditional financial institutions to offer crypto-enabled payment services and investment tools. Mark Nuvelstijn emphasized that while MiCA compliance was a significant hurdle, it's just the beginning of a broader strategic roadmap.
Bitvavo's licensing approval supports the trend towards normalization of the crypto sector in Europe, establishing new standards for digital asset regulation and creating clearer conditions for institutional investment.
