Binance moves to restrict non-MiCA compliant stablecoins for EEA users, reveals delisting timeline and conversion options ahead of March deadline.
Cryptocurrency exchange Binance will remove non-MiCA compliant stablecoins like Tether (USDT), First Digital USD (FDUSD), and DAI (DAI) from spot trading in the European Economic Area starting March 31, urging users to switch to MiCA-compliant ones like Circle’s USD Coin (USDC), Eurite (EURI) or fiat like EUR.
In a March 3 press release, Binance said that for now, non-MiCA compliant stablecoins can still be traded in spot pairs until the deadline. However, after March 31, these pairs will be fully delisted.
“Custody of non-MiCA Compliant Stablecoins will continue and you will be able to withdraw or deposit non-MiCA Compliant Stablecoins at any time.”
Binance
The update will also impact margin trading. From March 27, non-compliant margin trading pairs will be removed, and Binance will automatically convert any remaining assets to USDC. Binance urged users to convert their margin assets before the deadline to avoid liquidation risks.
To help users switch to MiCA-compliant stablecoins, Binance will offer zero-fee trading on some pairs and rewards for trading USDC or EURI. The exchange also recommends updating Binance Earn and Loan holdings to compliant stablecoins.
The update is part of Binance’s efforts to comply with Europe’s MiCA framework, which aims to establish clear regulatory guidelines for cryptocurrency markets. In July 2024, analysts at blockchain research firm Kaiko suggested that Europe’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation prompted a rush among issuers to comply, benefiting Circle at the expense of its rivals.
Tether chief executive Paolo Ardoino criticized MiCA, arguing that its requirement for stablecoin issuers to hold at least 60% of reserves in E.U. bank accounts poses financial risks, as deposits exceeding €100,000 are not insured.
