Bitget Elevates EU Strategy with Former Bitpanda Legal Lead
In a strategic move signaling its commitment to European expansion, cryptocurrency exchange Bitget has appointed Oliver Stauber, formerly of Bitpanda, as CEO of Bitget EU. This appointment, with a focus on establishing a MiCA-compliant hub in Vienna, Austria, underscores Bitget‘s proactive approach to navigating the evolving regulatory landscape within the European Union.
Vienna: The Chosen Base for EU Operations
The choice of Vienna as the EU headquarters reflects the city’s strategic advantages. Stauber highlighted Vienna‘s central location, diverse talent pool, and stable regulatory environment as key factors. This foundation will serve as a governance and compliance center for the exchange‘s EEA operations, ensuring alignment with the upcoming Markets in Crypto Assets Regulation (MiCA).
MiCA Compliance: A Top Priority for Bitget EU
Bitget‘s EU arm is diligently preparing for MiCA approval, anticipating authorization in the second quarter of 2026. Until then, the platform will not offer services within the European Economic Area (EEA). Stauber emphasized the implementation of robust measures to ring-fence EEA users from the broader Bitget platform. These safeguards include IP address detection and stringent Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols, specifically designed to prevent unauthorized access and protect users within the region.
Broker-Led Model and Stringent Asset Standards
Bitget EU will adopt a broker-led model, acting as a counterparty to client trades and sourcing liquidity from multiple independent providers. This approach aims to provide best-execution principles for its users. Furthermore, the entity will adhere to strict token listing criteria, offering only those assets that meet MiCA‘s rigorous standards regarding whitepaper quality, liquidity, and disclosure requirements. Stauber confirmed a thorough audit of existing assets, with non-compliant products being excluded from EEA users.
Enhanced User Protection and Market Integrity
Beyond compliance, Bitget EU is focused on bolstering user protection and market integrity. The platform intends to deploy advanced market surveillance tools to proactively identify and mitigate any instances of market abuse or manipulative trading activities. The “look and feel” of the Bitget EU platform will mirror the existing platform, but will operate under a distinct legal structure, lowering the market risk for EU clients and meeting ESMA guidelines.
Transition and Long-Term Vision
Once MiCA authorization is secured, existing EEA users on Bitget‘s global platform will be invited to transition to Bitget EU to access compliant services. This transition is part of Bitget‘s long-term strategy to establish a strong presence within the EU market. The company is positioning itself to be a key player in the European crypto ecosystem, prioritizing regulatory compliance and user safety.
Bitget‘s commitment to regulatory compliance and user protection highlights its dedication to building a sustainable and trustworthy platform within the evolving European crypto landscape.
