KuCoin, a global cryptocurrency exchange, announced that its European subsidiary KuCoin EU Exchange GmbH (KuCoin EU) has officially received authorization under the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCAR) in Austria. This approval enables KuCoin EU to provide regulated digital asset services to users across 29 countries within the European Economic Area (EEA), excluding Malta.
The authorization, announced Friday, confirms KuCoin’s compliance with the European Union’s crypto regulatory framework, which took effect in December 2024. MiCAR introduces uniform standards for digital asset service providers, issuers of stablecoins, and custodians operating throughout EU member states.
KuCoin stated that the license marks a notable advancement in its global compliance roadmap and represents successful alignment with one of the world’s most comprehensive crypto regulatory systems.
A milestone in KuCoin’s trust and compliance strategy
“Securing the MiCAR license with our local entity in Austria is a defining milestone in KuCoin’s long-term Trust and Compliance strategy,” said BC Wong, CEO of KuCoin. “Europe’s MiCAR framework represents one of the highest regulatory standards worldwide, and we are proud to meet this benchmark. As part of our $2B Trust Project, KuCoin will continue building transparent and security-driven Web3 infrastructure that strengthens user trust and supports the responsible growth of the digital asset industry.”
MiCAR authorization allows KuCoin EU to offer crypto-to-fiat trading, crypto-to-crypto exchange services, custody and administration of crypto assets, and asset transfer services for clients under a unified regulatory framework. The license also introduces enhanced oversight mechanisms, including capital adequacy standards, segregation of customer assets, disclosure requirements, and supervision by Austria’s Financial Market Authority (FMA).
KuCoin said the approval supports its commitment to operate transparently within trusted financial systems. The company emphasized that the MiCAR license reinforces its mission under the slogan “Trust First. Trade Next.” and positions its European platform to provide secure access to compliant digital asset services.
Strengthening global compliance foundation
The Austrian authorization follows KuCoin’s AUSTRAC Digital Currency Exchange registration in Australia earlier in November. KuCoin noted that it continues to enhance its compliance infrastructure across major jurisdictions and that these licenses reflect the company’s ongoing efforts to build a globally trusted network.
The firm also highlighted its security and risk management systems, including certifications such as SOC 2 Type II, ISO 27001:2022, ISO 27701, and the Cryptocurrency Security Standard (CCSS). KuCoin conducts third-party Proof-of-Reserves audits to maintain transparency and user confidence in its operations.
“This milestone strengthens KuCoin’s commitment to responsible global expansion. Compliance is not simply a regulatory obligation—it is the foundation of our long-term mission to deliver secure, innovative, and accessible digital asset services to users worldwide,” added BC Wong.
Under the MiCAR framework, providers licensed in one EU member state can “passport” their services across the entire EEA, allowing KuCoin EU to operate seamlessly under a single authorization. This structure simplifies cross-border service delivery while ensuring consistent compliance standards for European customers.
KuCoin EU prepares fully compliant European platform launch
KuCoin EU plans to soon launch its fully compliant European trading platform, offering a clear access point for users under MiCAR supervision. EEA users, except those in Malta, can expect updates and early access information through KuCoin EU’s official channels.
When the platform goes live, EEA-based users will no longer register or onboard on KuCoin Global’s main site. Instead, they will interact directly with KuCoin EU’s regulated environment, designed to support investor protection, market integrity, and compliant innovation under MiCAR’s framework.
The exchange noted that the MiCAR license does not make KuCoin EU an operator of a trading platform offering investment advice but rather a crypto-asset service provider (CASP) authorized to deliver exchange and transfer services on behalf of clients.
KuCoin’s expansion into regulated European operations through MiCAR authorization reflects a strategic move toward building a secure and long-term digital asset landscape. The license approval not only strengthens KuCoin’s market position in Europe but also supports the broader goal of fostering solid growth in the global cryptocurrency ecosystem.
Matvii Diadkov
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