US-based cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase has recently achieved a significant milestone in its expansion plans as it obtained the Virtual Assets Service Provider (VASP) registration from the French regulatory authority, Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF).
The newly acquired approval allows Coinbase to provide custody and trading services for digital assets to retail and institutional investors, complying with the financial and market regulations of France and the European Union.
Daniel Seifert, Vice President and Regional Managing Director for EMEA at Coinbase, expressed enthusiasm, stating, “We’re focused on bringing the benefits of crypto to the world. Achieving VASP status in France allows us to continue to grow globally in the best possible way, onboarding the next 1 billion people into crypto while ensuring consumer’s assets are secure and that compliance is prioritized.”
Furthermore, the expansion into France comes as a result of Coinbase’s aim for global growth, particularly in light of the growing interest in cryptocurrency within the French adult population, as highlighted by a recent survey.
Despite its international expansion efforts, Coinbase is also invested in advocating for regulatory clarity in the United States. The exchange has recently filed an appeal against a decision by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to reject its petition for crypto rulemaking.
On the legal front, the SEC’s recent rejection followed a lawsuit against Coinbase for allegedly offering unregistered securities.
FAQ
What does VASP registration in France mean for Coinbase?
Obtaining the Virtual Assets Service Provider (VASP) registration in France enables Coinbase to provide custody and trading services for cryptocurrencies to both retail and institutional investors, in compliance with financial and market regulations in France and the European Union.
What is Coinbase’s approach to global expansion?
Coinbase is actively seeking international expansion by obtaining licenses and registrations in major regulatory jurisdictions while also navigating regulatory challenges, such as the recent filing of an appeal against the US Securities and Exchange Commission’s decision.
What is the significance of Coinbase’s expansion into the French market?
Expanding into France holds significance for Coinbase as a recent survey indicates a growing interest in cryptocurrency among the French adult population, positioning the country as a potentially vital market for the exchange’s services.