The Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) marked a turning
point for crypto in Europe. It transformed a patchwork of national
regimes into a harmonised, single framework across Member States.
Malta chose to be at the forefront of crypto-regulation. The early
adoption of the local Virtual Financial Assets Act in 2018 allowed
us to build expertise and achieve a seamless transition to MiCA. In
fact, Malta has become the European hub for some of the largest
names in the crypto industry.
Crypto-asset activity is borderless by design. Passporting
rights under MiCA reflect this reality. A single authorisation in a
home jurisdiction unlocks MiCA passporting by enabling access to
the entire EU/EEA market. However, certain crypto-asset service
provides (CASPs) are underestimating the risks – particularly
when marketing to retail clients, running social media campaigns,
and engaging influencers, affiliate marketers and brand
ambassadors.
