Finance
French regulator says some crypto firms unresponsive as EU licence deadline approaches
Published by Global Banking and Finance Review
Posted on January 13, 2026
Home > Finance > French regulator says some crypto firms unresponsive as EU licence deadline approaches
French Regulator Highlights Unresponsive Crypto Firms Ahead of EU Deadline
Regulatory Challenges for Crypto Firms in France
By Elizabeth Howcroft
Current Status of Licence Applications
PARIS, Jan 13 (Reuters) - Nearly a third of crypto companies without an EU licence in France are still to tell the regulator whether they intend to get the licence required under new EU rules or will cease operating by July, the country's markets regulator warned on Tuesday.
Concerns Over Non-Responsive Companies
Under the European Union's crypto rules, MiCA, crypto companies must receive licences from national regulators in order to be able to operate across the bloc.
Future of Crypto Regulation in the EU
Those rules, a landmark regulatory package, came into force last year to bring crypto assets under formal regulation.
Stephane Pontoizeau, executive director of the market intermediaries and market infrastructures supervision directorate at the AMF, told journalists in Paris that the regulator had written to companies in November to remind them that the country's transition period ends on June 30 this year.
Of about 90 registered crypto companies in France that are not MiCA-licenced, 30% have already applied for a licence and 40% were not seeking one.
A remaining 30% had not told the regulator their plans nor responded to the November letter, Pontoizeau said, adding that he was concerned by this group.
'ORDERLY WIND-DOWN PLANS'
The European Securities and Markets Authority said in December it expects crypto companies without MiCA authorisation to have either implemented "orderly wind-down plans" or have such plans in place by the end of the transition period, which varies for different EU countries.
MiCA licences have been granted to crypto companies including U.S. exchange Coinbase, stablecoin issuer Circle, and British fintech Revolut.
Last year, France threatened to challenge the "passporting" of licences granted by different member states, saying it was concerned companies were seeking out jurisdictions with more lenient licensing standards.
In December, the European Commission proposed that ESMA should supervise crypto companies at a centralised EU level, a move which is opposed by some countries.
Setting out the regulator's 2026 plans, AMF President Marie-Anne Barbat-Layani also reiterated France's support for boosting European capital markets, and for giving more powers to ESMA.
(Reporting by Elizabeth Howcroft; Editing by Tommy Reggiori Wilkes and Jan Harvey)
Frequently Asked Questions about French regulator says some crypto firms unresponsive as EU licence deadline approaches
1What is a cryptocurrency?
A cryptocurrency is a digital or virtual currency that uses cryptography for security. It operates on decentralized technology called blockchain, which ensures transparency and security in transactions.
2What is a regulatory framework?
A regulatory framework refers to the set of rules, guidelines, and laws that govern the operations of financial institutions and markets to ensure compliance, protect consumers, and maintain market integrity.
3What is financial stability?
Financial stability is a condition where the financial system operates effectively, allowing for the smooth functioning of financial markets, institutions, and the economy without excessive volatility or crises.
4What is a financial market?
A financial market is a marketplace where assets such as stocks, bonds, currencies, and derivatives are traded. It facilitates the exchange of capital and liquidity among participants.
5What is a licence application in finance?
A licence application in finance is a formal request made by financial institutions or firms to obtain permission from regulatory authorities to operate legally within a specific jurisdiction.
