Kraken has received regulatory kraken from the Central Bank of Ireland under the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework, allowing it to operate across all 27 EU member states and three EEA countries.
This makes Kraken the first major global crypto platform to gain such authorization in Ireland. The move strengthens Kraken’s position in the eurozone, where the euro now accounts for 17.5% of global fiat-crypto trading.
It comes shortly after Coinbase secured a similar license in Luxembourg, as top exchanges race to comply with MiCA’s unified rules. However, MiCA’s cross-border licensing has raised concerns over potential regulatory arbitrage.
The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) is currently reviewing licensing practices in Malta. Kraken already holds VASP registrations in seven EU countries, enhancing its readiness for EU-wide expansion.
With the new MiCA license, alongside existing MiFID and EMI licenses, Kraken can now offer fully regulated crypto services across the EU. These licenses enable growth across retail, institutional, and professional markets, covering trading, derivatives, and payments.
MiCA also provides clients with stronger consumer protections and regulatory consistency, reinforcing trust in Kraken’s long-standing commitment to compliance and transparency.
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