MiCA Licenses as Catalyst: 21bitcoin and KuCoin Launch EU Offensive

Austria as Europe's Crypto Hub

Austria is increasingly establishing itself as the preferred location for crypto companies in Europe. With 21bitcoin and KuCoin, two more providers have now obtained the coveted MiCA license (Markets in Crypto Assets) from the Austrian Financial Market Authority (FMA). The approval enables both companies to engage in so-called "passporting" – the ability to offer their services throughout the European Economic Area and potentially reach over 500 million people^[1][2].

21bitcoin Plans Bitcoin-Backed Loans

The Austrian crypto broker 21bitcoin has set ambitious goals. With over 100,000 customers and trading volume exceeding 500 million euros, the company aims to become the first provider of a comprehensive Bitcoin financial ecosystem in Europe^[1].

"The goal is to establish 21bitcoin as the first provider of a comprehensive Bitcoin financial ecosystem in Europe," explains Daniel Winklhammer, founder and CEO^[1]. A central component of the 2026 strategy is the introduction of bitcoin-backed loans, being developed in cooperation with Volksbank Raiffeisenbank Bayern Mitte and Sopra Financial Technology^[1].

This cooperation aims to bridge DeFi mechanics and traditional banking. In parallel, the company is expanding its offerings for high-net-worth clients: the "21Private Service" provides personalized support for investors with assets starting at 100,000 euros^[1].

KuCoin Undergoes Image Transformation in Europe

For KuCoin, the world's seventh-largest crypto exchange by trading volume, the MiCA license marks a strategic turning point. The European subsidiary KuCoin EU can now operate throughout the EEA under regulatory oversight^[2].

"Securing the MiCA license with our local unit in Austria is a decisive milestone in KuCoin's long-term trust and compliance strategy," comments BC Wong, CEO of KuCoin^[2]. The MiCA framework represents one of the highest regulatory standards worldwide.

For its EU expansion, KuCoin is relying on experienced regional leaders: Oliver Stauber, former General Counsel and Managing Director at Bitpanda, leads European operations as CEO. Christian Niedermüller, previously CEO of the crypto exchange Blocktrade, serves as COO^[2].

Regulatory Fresh Start Following US Penalty

The European licensing comes at a significant moment for KuCoin. Just months ago, the company faced U.S. enforcement action over inadequate anti-money laundering prevention and agreed to a 300 million dollar penalty^[2]. With the MiCA license, KuCoin is now leveraging regulatory clarity in Europe to transform itself from an unregulated offshore operator to a compliant financial service provider.

According to Coingecko, the exchange receives a trust score of 9 out of 10 points. With 40 million users in 200 countries, KuCoin ranks ahead of established providers such as Crypto.com and Kraken in daily trading volume^[2].

Competition in Europe Intensifies

The decision by both companies to establish themselves in Austria was not coincidental. "The decision for Austria was significantly influenced by the timely implementation of MiCA-related legislation, the stable and predictable regulatory environment, and the proactive approach of the FMA in the MiCA licensing process," explains Stauber^[2].

The MiCA Regulation is considered the world's first comprehensive ruleset for crypto markets and sets high standards for transparency, consumer protection, and governance^[1]. With these newcomers, competitive pressure on established players such as Bitpanda, Coinbase, and Kraken intensifies. In addition to 21bitcoin and KuCoin, Bybit, AMINA AG, Cryptonow, and FIOR Digital are also registered in Austria^[2].