Nikolas Sargeant
Dutch cryptocurrency exchange Bitvavo has secured a Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) license from the Netherlands Authority for Financial Markets (AFM), becoming the latest major crypto platform to gain regulatory approval under Europe's new comprehensive digital asset framework. The license grants Bitvavo the authority to operate across all European Union member states under standardized regulatory guidelines designed to enhance investor protection and market stability.
CEO and co-founder Mark Nuvelstijn announced the milestone on Friday, emphasizing the company's strong support for the MiCA regulatory process. Chief Risk Officer Jeetan Patel described the licensing procedure as rigorous yet efficient, praising the constructive collaboration with Dutch financial authorities throughout the approval process. The exchange has implemented comprehensive compliance measures to meet MiCA's extensive regulatory requirements.
The approval places Bitvavo among a growing list of major cryptocurrency exchanges securing MiCA licenses across Europe. Recent approvals include Kraken's license from Ireland's central bank, Coinbase's approval from Luxembourg regulators, and Bybit's license from Austria's Financial Market Authority. This regulatory momentum reflects the crypto industry's commitment to operating within Europe's new legal framework.
The MiCA regulation, which took effect in January 2025, has already demonstrated positive market impact with trading volumes from EU customers reportedly increasing 70% quarter-on-quarter in the first quarter. Industry experts view the standardized regulatory approach as crucial for creating a level playing field across European markets while fostering innovation in the digital asset sector.
