Harmonization Challenges Persist in EU Crypto Oversight

Bitpanda's public affairs lead Benedikt Faupel has highlighted persistent disparities in how European nations implement the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation. Speaking during German Blockchain Week, Faupel noted the Vienna-based exchange currently holds 【three MiCA licenses】—more than any competitor—yet observes significant variations in enforcement approaches across member states.

From 17 Licenses to Unified Framework

The crypto platform previously navigated a complex web of 【17 separate national licenses】 before MiCA's introduction. While the regulation simplifies operations, Faupel cautioned that local interpretations create regulatory imbalances. Some jurisdictions conduct thorough institutional reviews before licensing, while others adopt more lenient approval processes.

——This fragmentation contradicts MiCA's core purpose of creating uniform standards—— Faupel remarked, though he acknowledged such teething problems are expected with novel financial regulations.

Data Reporting Burdens Raise Concerns

Bitpanda's executive identified excessive reporting requirements as another pain point, with regulators frequently collecting data before determining its utility. The company's public affairs team actively educates EU policymakers about these operational challenges while maintaining dialogue with national watchdogs.

Institutional Adoption Accelerates

The regulatory evolution coincides with growing traditional finance engagement. Deutsche Bank recently announced plans to offer crypto custody services through Bitpanda starting 2026—a development signaling mainstream acceptance despite ongoing regulatory growing pains.

Faupel emphasized Europe's crypto market continues maturing, requiring collaborative efforts between industry and regulators to refine MiCA's implementation. The framework represents progress, but achieving true harmonization demands further alignment among national authorities.