Bitvavo is the last exchange of crypto to receive a cryptocurrency market license from the Dutch authority for the financial markets (AFM) operate in the 30 nations of the European Economic Area.
Cryptographic companies have requested licenses since the entry into force of the regulatory regime in December of last year. Mica, which entered into force in 2023, harmonizes the rules through the European Union block of 27 nations plus Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein.
The Netherlands also awarded licenses to four exchanges in December of last year, as the rules were entering into force. Other exchanges like OKX, Crypto.com and Bitpanda obtained a MACA license from Malta. Kraken obtained a license Thursday from Ireland, Coinbase received a Luxembourg Mica license in June and Bybit obtained a European license from Austria in May.
“This license provides clarity, confidence and allows Bitvavo to achieve its ambition: to become the main digital asset trading platform in Europe,” said Mark Nuvelstijn, CEO and co-founder of Bitvavo, in a press release.
Bitvavo, who is the largest player worldwide of the EUR-cash market, has already organized registrations in France, Austria, Italy and Spain, in addition to the Netherlands, the company’s statement said.
