EU's MiCA transition period to end July 1, 2026; 75% of crypto platforms could lose eligibility to operate

According to BlockBeats, the EU's Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regime will see its transitional grace period expire on July 1, 2026. By May 2026, only 194 crypto firms across the EU had secured official authorization, compared with more than 3,000 crypto businesses registered in 2024. As a result, roughly 75% of existing platforms are expected to lose the right to operate once the grace period ends. Platforms without a MiCA license must wind down in an orderly manner, migrate users to licensed providers, or fully exit the European market by the deadline. France's regulator, the AMF, has adopted the strictest approach, warning that operating without a license could carry penalties of up to two years in prison and a €30,000 fine. For users, failure by a platform to obtain MiCA authorization could mean limits on services, including being unable to deposit funds or being required to withdraw assets. (CryptoSlate)