Greece's crypto market enters new era with company licensing
Translated from Greek, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Greece's crypto market is entering a new era with the licensing of companies by the Capital Market Commission.
- Approximately 1.87% of Greeks, around 200,000 people, currently use cryptocurrencies.
- BCASH A.E. is the first company licensed as a Crypto-Asset Service Provider (CASP) under the EU's MiCA regulation, allowing it to operate across the EU.
Greece's cryptocurrency market is poised for significant growth and increased legitimacy following the licensing of several companies by the Hellenic Capital Market Commission. Currently, an estimated 1.87% of the Greek population, approximately 200,000 individuals, engages with cryptocurrencies, placing the country 36th globally in terms of adoption. This new regulatory framework aims to protect investors from fraudulent "ghost" investment firms that have previously deceived citizens, sometimes by misusing the names of prominent public figures. Investors are now advised to verify if crypto providers are licensed by the Capital Market Commission or possess a European passport. BCASH A.E. has made history as the first company to be licensed in Greece as a Crypto-Asset Service Provider (CASP) under the European Union's Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation. This landmark approval not only bolsters BCASH's credibility but also opens the door for its services across the entire European Union through the European passporting mechanism. "This licensing further strengthens BCASH's credibility in the market," stated Stefanos Gketsopoulos, a board member at BCASH. "For nine years, the company has been a pioneer in the crypto market, investing in proprietary technology, physical service points, and a network of crypto ATMs." He highlighted the company's extensive client base across the EU and the significant daily transactions processed through its ATM network as proof of trust. Since 2017, BCASH has facilitated the buying and selling of cryptocurrencies for euros via its proprietary network of crypto ATMs and franchise stores. The company develops its own ATMs and transaction software, incorporating Know Your Customer (KYC), Anti-Money Laundering (AML), and Travel Rule procedures. BCASH has been registered with the Capital Market Commission since March 31, 2021, consistently prioritizing compliance, security, and reliability. With nine years of experience, its own ATM network, physical service locations, in-house software, and a broad EU customer base, BCASH offers a direct and organized entry point into the crypto-asset market. Future plans include new B2B partnerships enabling businesses to accept cryptocurrency payments and receive the equivalent amount in euros.
This licensing further strengthens BCASH's credibility in the market. For nine years, the company has been a pioneer in the crypto market, investing in proprietary technology, physical service points, and a network of crypto ATMs.
Originally published by Ta Nea in Greek. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.