Mobile-first platform Crypto.com secured a Markets in Financial Instruments Directive license, letting it offer regulated crypto derivatives across the European Economic Area.
The authorization comes four months after the firm won in-principle approval under Europe’s broader MiCA framework, underscoring its push to diversify revenue beyond spot trading.
CEO Kris Marszalek said the license will provide users “even more ways to engage with our platform,” positioning the exchange to compete with global rivals already active in futures and options.
Acquisition route proves popular
Crypto.com followed a playbook used by Kraken and others: buying a Cyprus-based financial entity to inherit regulatory permissions.
Industry observers say the strategy shaves months off approval timelines and aligns with CySEC’s comparatively crypto-friendly stance.
Derivatives boom heats up
With Coinbase purchasing Deribit and Gemini securing its own EU permissions, competition for sophisticated traders is intensifying.
Crypto.com has prepared by acquiring broker-dealer Watchdog Capital and continues to eye targets that could expand its geographic and product footprint.