LCX, the Liechtenstein Cryptoassets Exchange, has filed a pre-application for the Pan-European MiCA license (Markets in Crypto Assets Regulation) in Liechtenstein. LCX is the largest crypto exchange in Liechtenstein and one of the leading exchanges in Europe. LCX has become Europe’s fastest growing regulated crypto exchange and has been rigorously preparing for the new regulatory framework to be MiCA ready.
At LCX, we’ve always believed that the future of finance lies in regulated innovation. As we step forward with our pre-application for the MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation) license under Liechtenstein’s Financial Market Authority (FMA), we are not just preparing to meet compliance requirements—we’re building a foundation for the next era of digital assets. This journey has been monumental, and we’re excited to share more about the process that led us here.
A Vision Aligned with MiCA
MiCA has been a long time coming. Announced in September 2020 by the European Commission and officially approved in May 2023, this regulatory framework is designed to bring clarity and uniformity to the crypto industry across the European Union. As a regulated Crypto Asset Service Provider (CASP) in Liechtenstein since 2020, we recognized early on the immense potential and importance of MiCA. Since its announcement, we have been laser-focused on ensuring that LCX is not only compliant but also a leader in this transformative space.
Preparing for the Future: A Complex Undertaking
Our journey to MiCA readiness has been nothing short of rigorous. Preparing for one of the world’s most comprehensive regulatory regimes for digital assets meant going beyond the basics. Over the past four years, our team has dedicated countless hours to:
- Drafting documentation: We created more than 202 unique documents to align with MiCA’s requirements to be filed as part of the pre-application process.
- Detailing operations: These documents span over 1,894 pages, covering every facet of our operations, from internal controls and financial reporting to cybersecurity and customer onboarding.
- Engaging experts: We collaborated with legal advisors, compliance specialists, and blockchain experts to ensure every detail was meticulously addressed.
- Upgrading systems: Our technical teams worked tirelessly to enhance our systems, ensuring full compliance with MiCA’s stringent requirements while maintaining the security and scalability our users expect.
- Platform Requirements: Travel Rule implemented by LCX and operational since June 2021. Integration of required by MiCA ESG data already completed this month. And publication of information on each crypto asset with links to whitepapers implemented last month.
This process was not merely about meeting regulatory standards; it was an opportunity to refine our operations and set new benchmarks for excellence in the crypto industry.
Why MiCA Matters
MiCA represents more than regulation; it’s a bridge to a unified European crypto market. Once implemented on February 1, 2025, through Liechtenstein’s EEA MiCAR Implementation Act, it will grant us market access across 30 countries within the European Economic Area (EEA). That’s a combined population of approximately 450 million people, all with the potential to engage with digital assets under a harmonized legal framework.
This unprecedented opportunity is precisely why we invested so heavily in preparation. At LCX, we’ve always believed that being ahead of the curve isn’t just an advantage—it’s a responsibility. Filing our pre-application for the MiCA license solidifies our commitment to delivering innovative, secure, and compliant services to our users.
A Personal Journey
For us at LCX, this milestone is deeply personal. It’s a reflection of the dedication, hard work, and vision that our team has poured into this project. We’ve had brainstorming sessions late into the night, rigorous internal audits, and collaborative discussions with regulators and advisors. There were challenges, of course, but each obstacle only strengthened our resolve.
We’re proud to say that LCX is one of the first regulated exchanges taking this step. As the largest cryptocurrency exchange headquartered in the EEA, we’re not just part of the future of finance—we’re helping shape it.
Looking Ahead
Filing for the MiCA license is just the beginning. The road to full compliance and implementation is still ahead, but we’re confident and ready for the challenge. Our vision has always been to empower individuals and businesses with secure, innovative crypto solutions while driving the global adoption of blockchain technology. This next step brings us closer to realizing that vision.
To our users, partners, and the broader community: thank you for believing in LCX. We’re excited to embark on this journey together and look forward to continuing to lead the way in transforming the financial markets.
Stay tuned as we share more updates about our MiCA journey and beyond. Together, we’re building a future where wealth is free and accessible to all.
Disclaimer: This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or investment advice. LCX AG is registered as Trusted Technology Service Provider in Liechtenstein. No representation or warranty, either expressed or implied, is made as to the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to conduct their own research and consult with professional advisors before making any decisions regarding digital assets or related investments.
