ESMA requires EU crypto companies to stop non-compliant stablecoin services within 3 months
The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has issued an opinion requiring EU crypto firms to stop providing services involving stablecoins that do not comply with the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) framework, and has given a three-month deadline to address existing risk exposures. ESMA stated on Thursday that national regulators should require relevant firms to promptly address any remaining exposure to non-compliant stablecoins, no later than January 8, 2027.The guidance applies to crypto services regulated under MiCA, including trading platforms, exchange services, order execution, custody, transfers, investment advice, and portfolio management. ESMA stated that crypto firms should implement technical, contractual, and organizational controls to prevent EU customers from obtaining or increasing exposure to unauthorized stablecoins.Regulators may allow limited services to assist customers in exiting existing positions, including liquidation, exchange, withdrawal, transfer, and custody, but such activities must be temporary and closely monitored. This update expands on the guidance issued by ESMA in January 2025, when it required restrictions on trading and exchange services involving non-compliant stablecoins.