Cryptocurrency exchange Bitget is making a definitive and strategic move into the European market, signaling a robust commitment to regulatory compliance and localized service. This significant expansion is being spearheaded by a key leadership appointment and the establishment of a new regional headquarters, aiming to fully integrate within the stringent framework of the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation.
Bolstering European Expansion with Strategic Leadership
Bitget has appointed Oliver Stauber, a seasoned expert with a strong background from Bitpanda and KuCoin EU, as the CEO of Bitget EU. Stauber's primary mandate is to lead the exchange's expansion under the comprehensive MiCA regulation, with Vienna designated as the new European headquarters. The company plans to submit its MiCA license application in Austria by 2025, anticipating regulatory approval in the second quarter of 2026. Crucially, Bitget EU will not commence services in the European Economic Area (EEA) until full authorization is granted, underscoring a strict adherence to regulatory timelines. To ensure compliance and prevent residents from accessing unlicensed services, EEA users will be strictly isolated from Bitget’s offshore platform through advanced IP detection and enhanced Know Your Customer (KYC) controls. Furthermore, Bitget EU will implement stringent token listing criteria, offering only assets that fully comply with MiCA’s comprehensive whitepaper, liquidity, and disclosure standards.
A Compliant and Robust Operational Model
Oliver Stauber has outlined that Bitget EU will operate under a distinct "broker" model, rather than a traditional exchange. In this innovative setup, Bitget EU will function as the counterparty for all client trades, sourcing liquidity from multiple independent providers based on best execution principles. While the platform's visual interface will largely resemble the existing global Bitget offering, its underlying legal structure will be meticulously tailored to significantly reduce market risk for EU clients. This model will be fully compliant with MiCA and the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) expectations regarding market integrity. The company is also committed to deploying advanced market surveillance tools designed to detect and prevent market abuse and any manipulative trading activities, thereby fostering a fair and orderly trading environment.
Strategic Hub in Vienna
Vienna was strategically selected as Bitget’s pivotal EU base due to its central geographical location, access to a diverse and multilingual talent pool, and a stable, well-regarded regulatory environment. These factors make it an ideal hub for robust governance and compliance across all EEA operations. Once full regulatory authorization is secured, existing EEA users currently on Bitget’s global platform will be seamlessly invited to transition to Bitget EU. This ensures that all European clients can benefit from fully compliant and regulated services specifically designed to meet the rigorous standards of the European market.
