A MarsBit analysis argues that the biggest misunderstanding around the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets framework is not whether a crypto-asset service provider, or CASP, can expand across borders after authorization. It can. The real issue is what exactly gets carried into other member states through passporting, and what does not. Under MiCA, a CASP authorized in its home state may extend approved crypto-asset services into other EU countries through a branch or on a freedom-of-services basis, without setting up a separate licensed entity in each market. But the scope remains limited to the services already listed in the authorization. A cross-border notification does not automatically add fiat conversion, trading venue operations, order execution, or investment advice. The article also says many business models, especially crypto payments, sit partly outside CASP authorization. Stablecoin flows may overlap with payment regulation, and the European Banking Authority has discussed how MiCA interacts with PSD2, particularly for EMT-related transfers and some custodial wallet functions after transitional arrangements end on March 2, 2026. It also highlights ESMA’s 2025 warning about the “halo effect,” where users may wrongly assume that all products in a group app are MiCA-regulated just because one EU entity holds a CASP license. The broader point is that passporting removes duplicate licensing, not every local, product, and group-structure compliance issue.

A MarsBit article argues that the European Union’s Crypto-Asset Service Provider, or CASP, authorization is moving from a nice-to-have credential to a core market-access requirement for firms serving EU crypto clients. The shift is tied to July 1, 2026, when MiCA’s longest transition period for existing crypto-asset service providers ends across the bloc. Firms that had operated under older member-state rules but failed to secure MiCA authorization are expected to carry out orderly exit plans, stop providing unauthorized crypto-asset services to EU customers, and properly handle existing client relationships and asset transfers. The piece says MiCA changes more than the label on a license. It replaces Europe’s fragmented model of separate national registrations with a framework built on unified authorization, common standards, and cross-border operations through formal notification procedures. At the same time, CASP does not function as a blanket permit. Its scope depends on the actual services provided, and it does not automatically cover areas such as payments, e-money activity, fiat account services, card issuance, or products that fall under securities rules such as MiFID II. The article also notes that ESMA expects a narrow reading of reverse solicitation, making it harder for non-EU firms to rely on offshore structures while still targeting European users.

Gate US has introduced an in-app crypto gift card feature for KYC-verified users, allowing compliant transfers across 46 U.S. jurisdictions under 35 state money transmitter licenses.

OKX released its 40th proof-of-reserves snapshot showing BTC, ETH, and USDT coverage above 100%, while a Malta payment license opens the door for OKX Pay and OKX Card across Europe.

OKX has obtained a Payment Institution license in Malta, ensuring its stablecoin payment services comply with the EU's MiCA framework before the March deadline. OKX Pay and OKX Card are now fully regulated across the EEA.

Gate has obtained a PSD2 payment institution license in Malta, adding regulated payment services to its existing MiCA authorization and widening its EU compliance framework.

Phantom Wallet launched early access to its Phantom Cash Visa debit card in the US, supporting Apple Pay and Google Pay. Users can deposit and withdraw fiat and crypto, with an international version upcoming.

Alchemy Pay announces the mainnet launch of Alchemy Chain, a Layer-1 blockchain designed for compliant stablecoin payments, aligning with EU MiCA and Hong Kong HKMA frameworks, with plans to issue a native USD stablecoin for global enterprise settlement.