Unlimit Gains MiCA, But Stablecoin Still Point to EMI Overlap
Payments company Unlimit has officially joined the CySEC MiCA register, highlighting the shift toward a unified regulatory framework for crypto asset services across the European Union. While MiCA simplifies cross-border operations, the regulation maintains a strict distinction for stablecoins, which are classified as electronic money tokens. Issuing these tokens requires an Electronic Money Institution (EMI) license, effectively placing stablecoin issuers under the direct supervision of central banks. This regulatory overlap remains a point of contention for industry participants who face high compliance costs and complex licensing requirements. The European Central Bank continues to express skepticism toward private stablecoins, citing potential systemic risks to financial stability and monetary policy. Consequently, the ECB is prioritizing the development of a digital euro as a public-money alternative rather than supporting private sector solutions. This environment has already led to a significant market consolidation, with approximately 80% of crypto firms operating under previous national standards exiting the space, while major players like Tether remain unregistered in the bloc.
