July 16, 2025 — Ripple has confirmed its intention to apply for a Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) license to expand its crypto and stablecoin operations across the European Economic Area.
Key Takeaways
- Ripple will seek MiCA compliance to operate in the European Union.
- The company registered Ripple Payments Europe S.A. in Luxembourg.
- Ripple joins Coinbase and Bitstamp in pursuing EU licenses.
Ripple Prepares for European Expansion
A Ripple spokesperson told Cointelegraph that the company intends “to become MiCA-compliant” and sees “significant opportunity in the European market.” While Ripple did not confirm reports of an electronic money license filing in Luxembourg, the registration of Ripple Payments Europe S.A. supports its expansion plans.
MiCA, which came into effect in 2024, creates a unified legal framework for crypto across the European Union. Obtaining a MiCA license allows firms to operate across all EU member states without additional licensing.
Luxembourg Becomes Key Licensing Hub
Luxembourg has recently attracted several major crypto firms looking for regulatory clarity under MiCA. Coinbase and Bitstamp have both obtained crypto service licenses there, while Clearstream and Standard Chartered also launched digital asset operations in the region.
However, Luxembourg’s regulators remain cautious. In May, the government designated virtual asset service providers as high-risk for money laundering. Despite this, companies are moving forward, drawn by the stable regulatory framework.
Ripple’s move signals growing interest among US-based firms to seek expansion under MiCA, especially as regulatory uncertainty continues in the United States.
What Has Happened So Far
- April 2025: Ripple registered Ripple Payments Europe S.A. in Luxembourg.
- May 2025: Ripple’s RLUSD stablecoin launched and crossed $500M market cap.
- June 2025: Coinbase and Bitstamp secured MiCA licenses in Luxembourg.
- July 2025: Ripple confirmed it is pursuing MiCA compliance for EU operations.
Ripple Eyes Long-Term Presence in Europe
Ripple is positioning itself to gain a firm foothold in the European market. With RLUSD gaining adoption and increasing support across payment providers, the company’s next steps under MiCA may solidify its presence in the EU’s evolving digital asset economy.
