Bybit Secures MiCA License, Opens Vienna HQ to Strengthen European Crypto Expansion
Bybit, currently the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, has taken a major step in its global growth strategy by obtaining a Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) license from Austria’s Financial Market Authority (FMA). This license grants Bybit the legal ability to operate across all 29 European Economic Area (EEA) member states.
As part of this milestone, Bybit has also announced the opening of its European headquarters in Vienna—positioning the Austrian capital as a central hub for its operations on the continent.
The MiCA framework, established by the European Commission and approved in 2023, aims to standardize crypto regulations across the EU. It offers clearer rules for exchanges and token issuers, enhances consumer protections, and seeks to curb financial crime risks in the digital asset sector. For Bybit, the license reflects a proactive approach to compliance amid tightening global regulatory standards.
“Securing the MiCAR license in Austria is a testament to our compliance-first approach,” said Bybit CEO and co-founder Ben Zhou. “We are actively collaborating with regulators and pursuing licenses globally to ensure our users can access our innovative platform with the highest levels of regulatory and compliance assurance.”
In line with its expansion, the company plans to invest heavily in Austria, with plans to hire over 100 professionals for the Vienna office. Beyond business growth, Bybit is looking to deepen its ties with the local tech and academic communities. According to Bybit Europe CEO Mazurka Zeng, the firm will use its presence in Austria to support grassroots blockchain initiatives through its Blockchain for Good Alliance, aiming to foster innovation and education within the regional crypto ecosystem.
The move positions Bybit alongside a growing number of crypto platforms that are aligning with MiCA as the regulatory landscape in Europe becomes more defined. Bybit’s ability to offer regulated, localized services gives it access to a market of nearly 500 million people, a crucial advantage in a maturing industry.
At the same time, Bybit is extending its influence in Asia. CEO Ben Zhou recently met with Vietnam’s Finance Minister to discuss developing a national framework for digital assets and the potential for a state-backed digital asset exchange.
The positive news comes after a turbulent period for the exchange. Earlier this year, Bybit suffered a major security incident, which led to the withdrawal of over $1.4 billion from the platform. Despite the setback, the company appears to be regaining momentum by reinforcing its regulatory credentials and global presence.