The European Commission’s proposal to grant the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) direct supervisory powers over crypto and fintech firms is sparking concerns among legal experts. They warn that centralizing licensing authority could slow down approvals and hinder startup innovation in the region. The move is seen as an effort to transform ESMA into a European version of the U.S. SEC.
about EU's ESMA Expansion Could Slow Crypto Licensing, Experts WarnESMA
0 in Finance and 0 in Crypto last weekEU Expands ESMA Powers Over Crypto Firms Under MiCA
The European Commission has proposed a significant expansion of the European Securities and Markets Authority’s (ESMA) powers, aiming to centralize direct supervision of crypto-asset service providers (CASPs) and key trading infrastructure. This move, part of a broader package to streamline EU financial markets, is explicitly designed to narrow the competitive gap with the United States by creating a more harmonized and robust regulatory environment for digital assets under the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework.
about EU Expands ESMA Powers Over Crypto Firms Under MiCAEU’s ESMA Expansion Plan Sparks Crypto Regulation Debate
The European Commission’s proposal to extend ESMA’s authority over cryptocurrency markets is generating heated discussion across Europe. While critics warn it could hamper innovation in the crypto and fintech sectors, some policy experts see potential benefits in the centralized approach. The draft plan is expected to be published in December, potentially creating a regulatory framework more similar to the US Securities and Exchange Commission.
about EU's ESMA Expansion Plan Sparks Crypto Regulation DebateEU Proposes Central Crypto & Stock Exchange Oversight
The European Union is drafting landmark legislation to centralize oversight of cryptocurrency and stock exchanges under ESMA. This move aims to create more competitive capital markets and reduce barriers for startups. The proposal represents a significant shift from the current fragmented regulatory landscape.
about EU Proposes Central Crypto & Stock Exchange OversightBlockchain.com Secures MiCA License in Malta Amid EU Scrutiny
Blockchain.com has secured a pivotal Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) license in Malta, positioning the island nation as its European operational hub while joining peers like Gate and Gemini in leveraging Malta’s gateway to the EU market. This strategic move unfolds against a backdrop of heightened regulatory scrutiny from European authorities, who have raised alarms about inconsistent supervision and potential ‘forum shopping’ within the new crypto regime.
about Blockchain.com Secures MiCA License in Malta Amid EU ScrutinyFrance Pushes EU for Centralized Crypto Supervision
France is spearheading a controversial push to centralize cryptocurrency supervision across the European Union, warning that the current patchwork of national oversight threatens the bloc’s financial stability. Bank of France Governor François Villeroy de Galhau has called for the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) to take direct control of major digital asset firms, arguing that fragmented regulation creates dangerous gaps that companies can exploit.
about France Pushes EU for Centralized Crypto SupervisionFrance Urges EU to Give ESMA Direct Crypto Oversight
The Bank of France has called for the European Securities and Markets Authority to directly supervise major crypto firms under the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets framework. Governor François Villeroy de Galhau warned that fragmented oversight could threaten the bloc’s financial sovereignty. The proposal aims to ensure consistent rule application and reduce risks across European markets.
about France Urges EU to Give ESMA Direct Crypto OversightESMA Seeks Direct Crypto Oversight Under MiCA Framework
The European Securities and Markets Authority is moving to take direct control of cryptocurrency oversight across the EU, marking a significant centralization of regulatory power. This fundamental shift aims to address fragmented supervision and align with the newly implemented Markets in Crypto-Assets framework, representing the most substantial consolidation of financial authority since MiCA’s introduction.
about ESMA Seeks Direct Crypto Oversight Under MiCA FrameworkEU Regulators Warn Consumers on Crypto Risks and Legal Gaps
European financial regulators have issued a stark warning to consumers about the significant risks and limited legal safeguards surrounding certain crypto-assets. The joint alert from the European Supervisory Authorities—EBA, EIOPA, and ESMA—comes as the EU’s landmark Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation takes full effect across member states, emphasizing the critical need for investors to verify provider authorization and secure their digital wallets.
about EU Regulators Warn Consumers on Crypto Risks and Legal GapsWater150 Launches Blockchain-Backed Water Token
In an unprecedented fusion of ancient resources and modern technology, Water150 has launched its first blockchain-backed natural water well, Satra Brunn—one of Sweden’s oldest springs. The project, developed by the Longhouse Foundation, uses Ethereum-based tokens to secure long-term access to premium mineral water, with each token representing one liter of water. Crucially, the W150 token has received full approval from the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), making it a pioneering real-world asset utility token under Europe’s MiCAR regulatory framework.
about Water150 Launches Blockchain-Backed Water TokenEU Plans Crypto Oversight & Pension Reforms to Boost Markets
The European Union is advancing a year-end package to expand pension savings and tighten market oversight, including potential ESMA authority over crypto firms. Commissioner Maria Luís Albuquerque outlined plans for auto-enrolment pensions and centralized supervision of market infrastructures. The reforms aim to enhance Europe’s financial autonomy and competitiveness amid global shifts.
about EU Plans Crypto Oversight & Pension Reforms to Boost MarketsFrance Challenges EU Crypto Passports Over Lax Standards
France is threatening to block crypto firms licensed in other EU countries from operating domestically, citing concerns over lax regulatory standards. The move escalates a push for centralized EU oversight of digital assets under the MiCA framework. Regulators warn that inconsistent national practices could undermine market stability and investor protection.
about France Challenges EU Crypto Passports Over Lax Standards