cursor text test hoj la la

cursor circle texty text

Privacy preferences
Essential
Always active
These items are required to enable basic website functionality.
Marketing
These items are used to deliver advertising that is more relevant to you and your interests. They may also be used to limit the number of times you see an advertisement and measure the effectiveness of advertising campaigns.
Personalization
These items allow the website to remember choices you make and provide enhanced, more personal features. For example, a website may provide you with a contact to local sales executive relevant to your area by storing data about your current location.
Analytics
These items help the website operator understand how its website performs, how visitors interact with the site, and whether there may be technical issues.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Product

European Crypto Asset Regulation 101: The Implications of MiCA 
for Your Business

October 26, 2023
Ondřej Macháček
CEO of Cleevio Blockchain

As a forward-thinking crypto business navigating the ever-changing landscape of digital currencies, staying abreast of regulatory developments is crucial. Despite cryptocurrencies being an established concept, the regulatory framework has struggled to keep pace with this phenomenon, exposing users and businesses to potential risks.

European legislators are proactively addressing the challenges posed by cryptocurrencies through various legislative packages. As a crypto business, understanding the implications of MiCA Regulations is necessary for compliance and shaping a prosperous future in this dynamic field.

Common Crypto Business Models

For crypto businesses, two predominant operational models are at the forefront. The first involves users entrusting their funds to third-party platforms that facilitate cryptocurrency trading. However, this practice raises concerns about ownership, as those who lack control over their wallet's code may not have complete ownership of their cryptocurrencies. The second model revolves around investment in projects introducing new cryptocurrencies to the market. Unfortunately, the allure of promising high returns often overshadows the importance of conducting thorough due diligence on such ventures.

The Czech Republic's Approach to Crypto Business

Crypto-business in the Czech Republic is known for its "wild west" nature. Today, various aspects like exchanges, trading, wallets, ICOs, NFTs, and token issuance largely lack regulation. Since the end of 2020, conducting business in virtual currencies has become more accessible on a freelance basis. All you need is an LLC with a trade license, entrepreneurial courage, and technological expertise. It's a straightforward process with no unnecessary complications.

Introducing Passporting for Businesses Abroad

In the international landscape, legal regulations for cryptocurrency businesses vary significantly. Some countries adopt a tolerant approach, allowing operations similar to the Trade Licensing Act. Countries like Estonia, France, and Malta impose stricter authorization requirements, posing challenges for crypto businesses seeking to expand abroad.

To address this, the new legislation aims to simplify the process by introducing passporting. This solution seeks to streamline the international expansion of crypto businesses, offering a more accessible pathway for growth.

About MiCA Regulation

The 2019 European regulation, MiCA ("Markets in Crypto-assets"), is a pivotal legislation to ensure transparency in crypto-assets issuance and regulating their operations. It covers critical areas such as distribution, public offerings, and transaction oversight. To comply with MiCA, businesses need to obtain authorization from the national regulator (e.g., ČNB in the Czech Republic) based on the activity carried out, either as an asset-linked token issuer (e.g., cryptocurrency issuer) or a crypto asset service provider (e.g., exchange).

When a License is Required

The MiCA Regulation classifies crypto assets into three sub-categories based on their value stabilization approach, imposing specific requirements for each group:

  1. E-money tokens: Crypto assets pegged to an official currency to maintain stable value can only be issued by banks and e-money institutions.
  2. Asset-linked tokens: Crypto assets referencing any other value, including combinations thereof, can only be issued by licensed banks and CNB-approved issuers.
  3. For other crypto assets: Such as NFTs (unique and non-interchangeable), no license is required.

However, if your business falls within the mentioned categories, particularly asset-linked tokens, obtaining a ČNB license becomes essential.

Enhanced User Protection

Under the MiCA Regulation, crypto asset issuers will be obligated to notify and publish a transparent white paper detailing the project. In some cases, the white papers may require approval from the ČNB. This crucial requirement empowers users to conduct better project analyses before making investments. Moreover, a ČNB-approved white paper can enhance credibility and trustworthiness, fostering a safer environment for investors.

Understanding MiCA's implications and prioritizing user protection is crucial for crypto business owners. Navigating complexities and embracing best practices empower businesses to thrive in this rapidly growing industry. Stay agile, compliant, and innovative to seize the exciting potential ahead. Success awaits in the dynamic world of cryptocurrencies.

This article was created in cooperation with HAVEL & PARTNERS.

What’s next?

Let’s continue the conversation.

Leave us your info so we can keep in touch about product development.

3D representation of discovery track, glass cubes and a metal arrow that spins around them.
Stay in touch
By clicking Submit you're confirming that you agree with our Privacy Policy.
Thank you! We will be in touch.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Product
1 min read

Top 3 Reasons Why Startups Should Use an Agency for Development

Lukáš Stibor
Co-Founder
Project
1 min read

Stealth vs. Overhyped Marketing: Which is Better for Your Startup?

Lukáš Stibor
Co-Founder
Project
1 min read

Top AI Tools Our Project Managers Can’t Live Without

Michal Počuch
Head of PMO