Swiss Bitcoin app Relai has become one of the first Bitcoin-only companies to receive regulatory approval under Europe’s landmark Markets for Crypto Assets (MiCA) framework.
The Zurich-based company announced today that it has obtained authorization as a crypto asset service provider (CASP) from France’s Financial Markets Authority (AMF), according to a note shared with Bitcoin Magazine.
The approval marks a significant moment not only for Relai, but also for the broader Bitcoin ecosystem in Europe. The MiCA regulation, which came into effect earlier this year, establishes uniform rules for crypto companies across the EU, aiming to increase investor protection and reduce regulatory fragmentation between member states.
While large exchanges like Binance and Coinbase are still going through the complex licensing process, Relai’s early authorization gives it an advantage as an early adopter. Only Bitcoin companies to achieve compliance.
“We are incredibly proud to be one of the first Bitcoin companies to obtain the MiCA license and are eager to expand first to France and, in a second step, to Europe,” said Julian Liniger, co-founder and CEO of Relai. “This is a great moment for Bitcoin adoption on the continent.”
Relai is expanding an exclusive vision of bitcoin throughout Europe
Founded in Zurich in 2020, Relai has grown despite the difficult regulatory environment for digital assets.
The company closed a Series A funding round last year and surpassed 500,000 app downloads, establishing itself as an easy-to-use gateway for European retail investors seeking exposure to Bitcoin without intermediaries.
With the MiCA license secured, Relai can now “passport” its services across the EU, meaning it can operate in all 27 member states once formal notification procedures are completed.
The company plans to introduce a set of new features tailored to European users, including instant SEPA payments, higher trading limits, fixed price transparency, and improved security standards.
Relai also intends to invest in education and community building, launching localized learning resources and sponsoring Bitcoin events across Europe.
“Our goal is clear: to bring Bitcoin to as many people as possible: simple, secure and regulated,” said Adem Bilican, co-founder and president of Relai EU.
The company is also strengthening its governance with a newly appointed advisory board, consisting of industry veterans Jean Guillaume, Daniel Astraud and Herve de Kerdrel, who will provide guidance on regulatory compliance and strategic growth.
Relai plans to leverage its MiCA approval to expand across Europe, with marketing campaigns and app updates scheduled for 2026.
Yesterday, Blockchain.com announced that it has also received a MiCA license, granted by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA).