Coinbase has won a Markets in Crypto Assets license from Luxembourg’s financial regulator and will shift its regional headquarters from Ireland to Luxembourg.
First U.S. Exchange To Secure MiCA License
The move, announced this week, gives Coinbase the green light to offer digital asset services across all 27 EU member states under the new MiCA rules.
The company said it chose Luxembourg for its forward‑looking laws and plans to expand its team in Dublin at the same time.
Luxembourg License Approval
Luxembourg’s Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier permitted Coinbase to operate across the entire European Union.
The Markets in Crypto Assets regime is the first comprehensive EU‑wide framework for digital assets. By securing this license, Coinbase can provide trading, custody and other services under a clear legal structure.
Shift from Ireland
Coinbase will move its main European base from Dublin to Luxembourg in the coming months. Daniel Seifert, Coinbase’s vice president for EMEA and managing director for the region, said the decision was not a criticism of Ireland’s business climate.
Instead, he pointed to Luxembourg’s four blockchain‑focused laws as the key advantage. Ireland has yet to pass rules specifically aimed at crypto firms.
Strengthening Dublin Presence
Despite relocating its headquarters, Coinbase will keep a large footprint in Ireland. The exchange plans to hire about 50 new staff in Dublin to support operations and compliance.
Seifert himself will move to Ireland to lead the expanded Irish team. Coinbase said the city remains an important hub for its engineering and support functions.
Market Reaction and Stock Gains
Investors welcomed the news. On Friday morning, Coinbase shares rose more than 3.5 % in early trade, making it one of the top gainers on Stocktwits.
Over the week, the stock climbed over 20 %, driven in part by US stablecoin legislation moving through the Senate. Year to date, Coinbase stock is up 18 %, and it has gained 27 % over the past 12 months.
Also Read: Stablecoin Startup Ubyx Raises $10M Seed Round Led by Galaxy Ventures and Coinbase
CEO’s Message on Europe
Brian Armstrong, Coinbase’s chief executive, said the firm is fully committed to Europe’s crypto future. He noted that the EU market is vital to Coinbase’s global growth plans.
The new licence and hub move underline the exchange’s belief that clear rules will help the industry thrive.
Warning on Market Risks
Alongside this, Coinbase issued a report on rising risks in the crypto market. The company highlighted private transit capital vehicles, which have issued convertible bonds to buy crypto assets.
If prices fall sharply and these firms cannot refinance their debt, they might have to sell large holdings. Such forced sales could put downward pressure on markets and hurt investors.
Balancing Growth and Caution
Coinbase’s push into Europe comes at a time of rapid change in crypto rules and market dynamics.
By securing a MiCA licence, the company ensures it can serve EU clients under a harmonised legal framework. At the same time, its own warnings show it remains alert to potential shocks in the sector.
With its new license and headquarters in Luxembourg, Coinbase cements its position as a leading crypto service provider in Europe. The move brings regulatory clarity and a stronger European base while retaining a key role for Dublin.
Also Read: JPMorgan Pilots JPMD Deposit Token On Coinbase’s Base Network Amid GENIUS Act Passing