In a landmark move for the European crypto sector, Bitstack, a French bitcoin savings application, has become the first company in France to obtain a Crypto Asset Service Provider (CASP) license under the new Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation. This achievement positions Bitstack at the forefront of regulatory compliance, enabling it to operate across all European Union member states under a unified legal framework.
The license was granted outside of any transitional fast-track or notification procedures, underscoring the thoroughness of Bitstack’s application and compliance readiness. This authorization allows the company to expand its services continent-wide, leveraging MiCA’s standardized rules designed to harmonize the regulation of crypto assets and enhance consumer protection, market integrity, and operational transparency.
Bitstack’s Innovative Approach to Bitcoin Savings
Launched in 2022, Bitstack offers a user-friendly platform that simplifies bitcoin investment for everyday users. Its features include:
- Round-ups on everyday purchases, automatically converting spare change into bitcoin.
- Recurring bitcoin purchases, allowing users to set up regular investments.
- Instant purchases starting from just €1, making bitcoin accessible to all.
- In-app peer-to-peer bitcoin transfers, enabling seamless sending and receiving of bitcoin within the platform.
With over 200,000 users already in France, Bitstack is now poised to extend its services to a broader European audience. The app is designed to encourage consistent micro-investing habits, helping users build long-term savings in bitcoin with minimal effort.
The Role of Legal Expertise in MiCA Compliance
Bitstack’s successful license application was guided by De Gaulle Fleurance, a full-service business law firm with offices in Paris, Brussels, and other global hubs. The legal team was led by partner Anne Maréchal, with support from senior partner Julie Bader and partner Irène L’Homme.
Anne Maréchal commented, “Securing the CASP license marks a critical milestone for Bitstack as a pioneer in bitcoin savings. It allows them to operate Europe-wide within a robust regulatory framework. We are proud to have supported Bitstack throughout this foundational phase of their growth.”
MiCA, passed in 2023 and currently being phased in, introduces standardized licensing requirements for crypto asset service providers across the EU. Companies offering services like custody, trading, exchange, and transfer of crypto assets must obtain a CASP license from their national regulator. This ensures consistent levels of consumer protection, prudential safeguards, and market integrity.
Implications for the European Crypto Landscape
Bitstack’s licensing milestone represents a turning point for crypto startups aiming to operate cross-border within the EU. During MiCA’s transition period, many providers still rely on temporary passporting measures. Bitstack, however, is the first company in France to complete the full regulatory process through a direct application under the new regime.
This achievement enables Bitstack to operate across the EU under a single legal framework, eliminating the need for country-specific regulatory approvals. This is expected to reduce expansion costs and minimize legal uncertainties associated with cross-border crypto services.
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Bitstack is part of a small but growing group of European companies racing to achieve MiCA compliance early. By securing this license, Bitstack gains a first-mover advantage as MiCA reshapes the competitive landscape of crypto finance in Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the MiCA regulation?
MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets) is a comprehensive regulatory framework for crypto assets in the European Union. It aims to create consistent rules for crypto asset service providers, enhancing consumer protection, market integrity, and financial stability.
Why is Bitstack’s CASP license significant?
Bitstack is the first French company to receive a CASP license under MiCA through a full application process. This allows them to operate across all EU member states without needing additional national approvals, setting a precedent for other crypto firms.
How does Bitstack help users invest in bitcoin?
Bitstack automates bitcoin savings through round-ups on daily transactions, recurring purchases, and low-entry investments starting from €1. It also supports in-app peer-to-peer transfers, making bitcoin investment accessible and habitual.
What services require a CASP license under MiCA?
Services such as crypto custody, trading, exchange, and transfer require a CASP license. The regulation ensures providers meet strict operational, security, and transparency standards.
Can Bitstack now operate throughout Europe?
Yes. With the MiCA license, Bitstack can offer its services in any EU member state under the same regulatory conditions as in France, facilitating seamless cross-border expansion.
How does MiCA benefit consumers?
MiCA enhances consumer protection by imposing strict requirements on service providers, including prudential safeguards, transparency obligations, and security measures, reducing risks associated with crypto investments.
Looking Ahead: Bitstack’s European Expansion
Bitstack was founded with the goal of making bitcoin a viable long-term savings tool. It has positioned itself as a challenger to traditional finance, particularly appealing to younger, mobile-focused users who prefer automated, low-friction digital asset investment. The app’s design promotes consistent micro-investing habits, using round-ups and small recurring purchases to make cryptocurrency investing as effortless as possible.
With its MiCA-compliant license, Bitstack is well-equipped to scale its operations across Europe. The company’s expansion will likely focus on markets with high demand for accessible crypto investment solutions, further solidifying its role as a key player in the evolving digital finance landscape.
De Gaulle Fleurance, the law firm that assisted Bitstack, has extensive experience advising businesses in the fintech and digital asset sectors. The firm supports clients with structural development, including mergers and acquisitions, corporate finance, and international expansion. It has received recognition from authoritative legal guides such as Chambers and The Legal 500 for excellence in commercial law.
👉 Learn more about crypto regulatory standards
Bitstack’s achievement underscores the importance of regulatory compliance in the rapidly evolving crypto industry. As MiCA continues to be implemented, other companies are likely to follow Bitstack’s lead, adopting robust compliance strategies to thrive in the new European regulatory environment.