Bitstamp delists Euro Tether (EURT) as MiCA rules are rolled out

• Bitstamp delists Euro Tether (EURT) to comply with EU’s new MiCA regulations.
• MiCA requires stablecoins to be fully backed by liquid reserves for consumer protection.
• Non-euro stablecoins remain available on Bitstamp but limited to certain products for EU customers.

As the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation comes into full effect, the cryptocurrency exchange Bitstamp that is set to be acquired by Robinhood, has announced it will delist Tether’s euro-pegged stablecoin, Euro Tether (EURT).

This move, effective by the end of June, underscores Bitstamp’s commitment to regulatory compliance and marks a significant moment in the crypto market’s evolution within the EU.

MiCA’s impact on stablecoins

The MiCA regulation, set to go live on June 30, 2024, aims to create a unified regulatory framework for crypto assets across the European Union.

This comprehensive regulation requires fiat-backed stablecoin issuers to implement robust safeguarding measures and ensure full backing by liquid reserves. By adhering to these standards, the EU hopes to protect consumers and promote the maturation of cryptocurrencies as an asset class.

Bitstamp, a prominent player in the crypto exchange market, has responded to these new regulations by delisting EURT, a stablecoin they were one of the first to list back in November 2021. The delisting decision aligns with the need to comply with MiCA, which imposes stricter requirements on stablecoins, especially those denominated in euros.

James Sullivan, Bitstamp’s UK managing director, emphasized the exchange’s proactive stance on regulation, noting that Bitstamp supports MiCA’s mission to make crypto regulation uniform across the EU. Sullivan stated that the exchange’s commitment to compliance and security and that they are in a strong position to adapt to the changes. He highlighted the exchange’s efforts to communicate directly with affected customers.

What does the EURT delisting by Bitstamp mean?

Euro Tether (EURT) was launched by Tether in 2021, joining the ranks of its more prominent counterpart, USD Tether (USDT).

However, EURT’s market capitalization has significantly declined from its peak of $236 million in February 2022 to approximately $33 million at present.

Reportedly, the market cap decline coupled with regulatory pressures are the main factors behind Bitstamp’s decision to delist the stablecoin.

The delisting of EURT is part of a broader trend among exchanges preparing for MiCA’s enforcement.

Bitstamp is not alone in this preemptive compliance strategy; Binance has also announced restrictions on unauthorized stablecoins for EU users, while Uphold has taken a more drastic approach by delisting USDT and six other stablecoins.

These actions reflect the stringent regulatory environment that MiCA introduces and the necessity for exchanges to align their offerings accordingly.

Notably, Bitstamp has clarified that non-euro-denominated stablecoins will not be delisted, although their availability will be limited to certain products for European customers. This decision underscores the nuanced approach exchanges are taking in response to MiCA, balancing regulatory compliance with market demands.

The future of Tether stablecoins in the EU

The implementation of MiCA represents a pivotal moment for the cryptocurrency market in Europe. By enforcing rigorous standards on stablecoin issuers, the EU aims to enhance consumer protection and market stability.

However, the regulation also presents challenges for stablecoin providers and exchanges, necessitating significant adjustments to their operations.

Notably, Tether’s response to MiCA has been cautious. While the company is evaluating the regulation’s complexities, Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino has expressed reluctance to be regulated under MiCA, indicating a potential reevaluation of the company’s strategy in Europe.