Crypto news

17.06.2026
09:35

Binance refutes rumors about the denial of the MiCA license: the alignment process has been completed

Binance new 21.08

Tensions arose in the market after information emerged about a possible refusal by the Greek regulator to grant Binance a license under the MiCA regulation. However, the exchange quickly refuted this data, stating that the review of its application had already been completed and the documents were deemed fully compliant with the requirements of European legislation. According to platform representatives, a final decision is expected by June 30.

To remind: MiCA is a unified regulation for all crypto companies in the European Union. Obtaining a license from one national regulator allows operations in all 27 bloc countries through the passporting mechanism. The transition period ends on June 30, 2026, and from July 1, platforms without authorization will not be able to legally serve clients in the EU.

Binance's application was reviewed by the Hellenic Capital Market Commission. According to unconfirmed reports, the authority was ready to refuse the exchange but refrained from official comments due to confidentiality rules. Binance insists it has not received any formal notifications of refusal. Moreover, the company claims its application underwent additional coordination at the level of the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), and the Greek regulator allegedly informed ESMA of its intention to issue a license at the next meeting of its board.

Binance emphasizes that the issue extends beyond one company and concerns the uniformity of MiCA application. "The regulation was designed to unify rules and create predictable operating conditions for crypto businesses in the European Union. A situation where a company passes all stages of coordination but still faces uncertainty raises questions about the consistency of MiCA norms application," the exchange stated.

As arguments in favor of its reputation, Binance cites figures: over 1,500 employees are engaged in compliance (about 20% of the workforce), and annual investments in this area exceed $200 million. In December 2025, the platform received full authorization from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of the Abu Dhabi Global Market.

The exchange also warns that a delay in licensing will affect not only the platform itself but also European users. "This could lead to reduced liquidity, decreased competition and choice for users, as well as an outflow of activity, jobs, investments, and tax revenues outside the EU," the statement notes.

Earlier, ESMA reminded that from July 1, crypto companies without a MiCA license must cease servicing clients from the European Union. According to Hogan Lovells estimates, by May, only 194 out of approximately 3,000 companies previously operating in the region had received official authorization. It is expected that about 75% of old platforms will close or exit the European market.

My analysis: The situation surrounding Binance is a test of the maturity of European regulation. If MiCA truly creates uniform rules, delays in issuing a license to the largest player undermine trust in the system. On the other hand, the exchange itself demonstrates a high level of compliance, which should address concerns. We await June 30 — this deadline will be decisive not only for Binance but for the entire European crypto market.