London-based crypto platform Blockchain.com announced on October 23, 2025, that it has secured authorization under the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) from the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA). This approval allows the company to provide wallet and custody services across all 30 countries in the European Economic Area (EEA).
A Major Step Toward Unified Regulation
The MiCA license represents a major regulatory breakthrough for Blockchain.com. It enables the firm to consolidate its European operations under one consistent framework instead of juggling various national rules. With this license, Blockchain.com can now offer:
- Wallet and digital asset custody solutions
- Enterprise-grade treasury management tools
- A customized product lineup tailored to European users
Malta played a critical role in this development. Known as an early mover in crypto regulation, the country leveraged its experience with the Virtual Financial Assets (VFA) framework to act as a launchpad for MiCA licensing. Blockchain.com highlighted Malta’s “regulatory clarity and strategic location” as key reasons for selecting it as the firm’s European hub.
Leadership and Oversight Developments
To guide its EU expansion, Blockchain.com appointed Fiorentina D’Amore—former chair of the Financial Institutions Malta Association (FIMA)—as Senior Director of EU Operations and CEO of its Maltese entity. Her strong background in fintech and regulatory compliance is expected to help ensure the company’s smooth growth under MiCA.
However, Malta’s regulatory body has recently faced scrutiny. In July 2025, the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) reported that the MFSA’s MiCA approval process “only partially” met EU standards, citing overly fast approvals and incomplete applicant oversight. In response, the MFSA clarified that all issued licenses remain valid and that corrective measures are already in motion.
What This Means for the European Crypto Market
For Blockchain.com, this license brings a clear first-mover advantage within the EEA. Operating under a harmonized system allows the firm to “passport” its services seamlessly across member nations, cutting down regulatory complexity and costs.
From a broader perspective, this move underscores MiCA’s growing importance in shaping Europe’s digital-asset ecosystem. It sets a foundation for regulated custody, wallet infrastructure, and institutional crypto adoption across the region.
Still, the spotlight on Malta’s regulatory standards adds a layer of caution. For the island nation to maintain its credibility as a crypto hub, it must demonstrate strong supervisory capacity. As MFSA strengthens its oversight, firms seeking MiCA authorization in Malta will need to show robust governance, compliance, and operational readiness.
