Coinbase Secures MiCA License in Luxembourg
US crypto exchange Coinbase has secured a Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) license from Luxembourg’s Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF). The authorization enables the platform to offer cryptocurrency products across the European Union under a unified regulatory framework.
This development signals intensifying competition in the European crypto market. European rivals including OKX, Crypto.com, and Bybit have previously obtained MiCA licenses, with Gemini also progressing toward authorization in the region.
Coinbase has named Luxembourg its new European headquarters, citing its position as a progressive financial center. Situated between Belgium, France, and Germany, the Grand Duchy has been advancing cryptocurrency regulations since 2019.
“Luxembourg is actively pursuing a whole-of-government approach to blockchain and DLT,” Coinbase stated, noting the country has passed “four blockchain-related policies through the national legislature.”
Reacting to the news, Coinbase shares increased 4.95% intraday amid trading volumes, reaching $309.92 from Thursday’s close of $295.29.
Earlier this month, Coinbase announced a $2.9 billion deal to acquire options trading platform Derebit. The exchange also recently became the first cryptocurrency company to join the S&P 500 index.
Crypto Investment Growth in Europe
Financier Europe’s MiCA framework aims to standardize cryptocurrency rules across the EU, protect investors, and enhance financial stability. The comprehensive legislation was adopted in May 2023 and entered full enforcement in December 2024.
Cryptocurrency investment is growing significantly across Europe, with research suggesting between 10% and 20% of European investors have exposure to crypto assets. Rather than purely pursuing capital appreciation, utility appears to be emerging as a key driver for adoption, with 70% of crypto transactions increasingly flowing into retail and beverage sectors. Eastern European decentralized finance (DeFi) applications are also showing notable usage growth.
