MiCA is here

CAIZ MEDIUM
4 min readJul 12, 2022

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Introduction

MiCA (the Markets in Crypto Assets) is a proposed EU framework for the regulation of cryptocurrencies. The MiCA proposal seeks to harmonize cryptocurrency regulations in Europe by introducing a set of rules that all member states must adhere to if they want their citizens to be able to use crypto safely.

MiCA seeks to harmonize cryptocurrencies in Europe

MiCA seeks to harmonize cryptocurrencies in Europe. MiCA is a European initiative to create a regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies. The objective of MiCA is to provide legal certainty on the use of cryptocurrencies and their impact on the financial system and society as a whole.

In order to achieve this, MiCA has developed action points that need to be implemented by regulators at both EU level as well as at national level:

  • A more efficient system for addressing market abuse;
  • An enhanced approach toward new technologies;
  • Improving consumer protection;
  • Defining AML/CFT requirements in line with international standards;

The proposed regulation

MiCA is a proposed regulation that will provide increased certainty for cryptocurrency businesses and allow them to operate in a more legitimate environment. It will help reduce uncertainty, fraud, and money laundering, which are all major concerns for consumers of crypto.

Who is behind the draft?

MiCA is a European initiative. The European Commission is the initiator of MiCA, which has been drafted by the European Parliament and Council of the European Union (the co-legislators). The ECB and ESAs are involved in the drafting process as well.

If not MiCA then what?

Let’s be honest, there are plenty of regulatory bodies out there trying to regulate the crypto economy. We have FATF and EBA, who work closely with European Union Member States on anti-money laundering and terrorism financing measures; ESMA, which is the European Securities and Markets Authority; also we have MiFID II (Market in Financial Instruments Directive) that aims at improving transparency for consumers in financial markets by providing for a single set of rules across all EU member states. However, none of those options are as good as MiCA.

MICA stands out from these options because it provides a clear framework for crypto assets which is aligned with existing regulations globally but also leaves room for innovation in this space through its focus on consumer protection rather than simply regulation enforcement alone; this makes it an attractive option not just for established players but also startups who wish to enter into this market place without having to worry about getting registered or licensed under multiple jurisdictions around Europe

Why is MiCA necessary?

MiCA is a response to the lack of regulation in the crypto industry. As it stands, there is little in place for projects and businesses looking to enter this space. MiCA aims to provide a framework for these companies so they can thrive within the framework of legality, security, and transparency that the market demands.

Although some of the provisions of MICA may seem burdensome for the crypto industry, there may be no other option for crypto to gain legitimacy in Europe.

If you are in the crypto industry, you may have heard of MiCA. MiCA is an initiative started by the European Commission to create a single regulatory framework for cryptocurrency in Europe. While this provision may seem burdensome for the crypto industry at first glance, it may be our best option to legitimize cryptocurrencies in Europe.

  • The goal of MiCA is to allow crypto assets to be regulated by a single European regulator rather than individual regulators from each EU member country.[1] This means that all exchanges and wallets will fall under one unified set of rules and requirements instead of having different sets for each jurisdiction.
  • In addition to creating uniform regulation across all EU member states, it also allows companies who want their ICOs listed on European exchanges (i.e., Binance) or traded on European stock exchanges (i.e., Nasdaq) can do so through a single entity: the European Central Bank (ECB). The ECB oversees monetary policy and banknote issuance throughout 18 countries across Europe.[2] It is well-positioned as an overseer because it already regulates banks within those countries — allowing them access into cryptocurrency markets would mean introducing additional regulations onto existing financial institutions rather than creating new ones dedicated specifically towards crypto activity; this allows existing financial institutions such as Deutsche Bank AG which recently announced its plans [3]to offer digital currency trading services through its investment banking arm Deutsche Securities Ltd;[4] Barclays Plc which has been researching launching its own trading platform [5]; JP Morgan Chase & Co., Inc.;[6], Goldman Sachs Group Inc.;[7]and Citigroup Inc.[8].

Conclusion

While the proposed regulation is not perfect, it is a step towards legitimizing crypto in Europe. It will be interesting to see how MiCA fares under public scrutiny. We at Caiz welcome smart and fair regulation, because it will be good for everyone.

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CAIZ MEDIUM

CAIZ: Uniting tradition with fintech for ethical, secure & fiqh-compliant financial freedom.