EU MiCA Regulation News: BNY Mellon Gets Approval, Binance App Removed

EU MiCA Regulation: ESMA Registry Hits 309, Binance Faces App Removal

European crypto regulation entered a new phase as ESMA expanded its MiCA crypto-asset service provider (CASP) registry to 309 licensed entities. Meanwhile, Binance faced fresh challenges after its Android app disappeared from Google Play in some EU countries. 

Together, the two developments show how the EU MiCA regulation update is reshaping the digital asset landscape.

ESMA Adds 15 New Crypto Firms Under EU MiCA Framework

ESMA has added 15 new institutions to its MiCA CASP register, pushing the total number of licensed providers in the EU to 309. This marks the third registry update since the transition period closed on July 1, 2026, following a second update that added 14 firms, including Ripple Payments Europe.

The framework gives a single, harmonized rulebook for crypto-asset service providers, replacing the patchwork of national regimes that once governed exchanges, custodians, and payment platforms, and offering firms one consistent path across all 27 member states. ESMA noted no other MiCA-related registers changed in this update.

Source: Wu Blockchain 

BNY Mellon Subsidiary and Banks Join EU Regulated Crypto Market

Among the most notable additions is BNY SA/NV, the Belgian subsidiary of US banking giant BNY Mellon, signaling growing traditional-finance interest in regulated digital asset services. Three German cooperative banks also joined the register: Spar-und Kreditbank Rheinstetten, VR-Bank Augsburg-Ostallgäu, and Raiffeisenbank Falkenstein-Wörth.

Their inclusion reflects a broader trend of established financial institutions entering crypto custody now that a clear regulatory pathway exists, letting banks expand into digital assets without operating in a legal gray area.

BitPay, Coinify and Bleap Expand Licensed Crypto Service Providers

Beyond banking institutions, several crypto-native payment and infrastructure platforms were added, including the BitPay platform, Coinify, Bleap, SafeLynx Technologies, Januar, and Nodu Digital, alongside Bulgaria's Altcoins BG and Digital Assist. These additions show payment processors and infrastructure providers adapting to MiCA's compliance requirements — from capital reserves to governance standards — to keep serving customers legally.

Source: ESMA

Germany and Denmark Lead Latest MiCA License Expansion Across Europe

Germany and Denmark led the latest expansion, each adding three new CASPs licensing. Bulgaria and Latvia followed with two additions apiece, while Belgium, Cyprus, Liechtenstein, and the Netherlands each added one — a spread showing adoption progressing unevenly but broadly across the bloc.

Binance Android App Removed From Google Play in Some EU Countries

While ESMA's registry grows, Binance faces its own regulatory friction. Its Android app has become unavailable on Google Play in several EU countries, including Spain and Latvia, though it remains accessible in Poland. The removal follows Binance's earlier withdrawal of its Greek license application, shortly before the July 1 deadline.

A Binance spokesperson said the company was aware Google Play had updated its policies in ways affecting app availability in certain markets, and that it was working with Google toward a resolution. Binance has not confirmed a direct link between the app's disappearance and Binance MiCA status.

Source: Wu Blockchain Tweet

EU MiCA Regulation Timeline

• July 1, 2026: The transition period ended, increasing compliance requirements for crypto providers

• July 2026: ESMA began post-transition CASP registry updates

• July 2026: First and second CASP registry updates added new licensed providers, including major industry firms

• July 27, 2026: ESMA added 15 new CASPs, increasing total licensed providers to 309

• July 27, 2026: Binance Android app became unavailable on Google Play in some EU countries

What MiCA Expansion Means for Crypto Companies and Users

More crypto exchanges and companies are likely to pursue European licenses to keep operating in the bloc. A growing pool of regulated providers could boost user confidence and encourage institutional adoption. 

Smaller firms, however, may struggle with ongoing compliance costs — a concern echoed by Gate Europe CEO Giovanni Cunti, who has warned that maintaining a license long-term could strain smaller operators. Exchanges without proper authorization risk facing restrictions like the one Binance is now navigating.

Latest EU MiCA CASP Registry Update

• Regulatory Authority: European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA)

• Total Licensed CASPs: 309

• New Additions: 15 providers

• Major New Entity: BNY SA/NV (BNY Mellon Belgium subsidiary)

• Banking Additions: Three German banks

• Crypto Platforms Added: BitPay, Coinify, Bleap, Januar, SafeLynx Technologies

• Update Timing: Third CASP registry update after July 1 transition deadline

Conclusion

EU MiCA Crypto Regulation 2026 Continues Reshaping Digital Asset Industry. ESMA latest update underscores the steady expansion of regulated crypto services across Europe, with traditional banks and crypto-native platforms alike joining the framework. 

At the same time, Binance's app restrictions highlight the real challenges exchanges face while adjusting to the stricter compliance environment. Looking ahead,  EU's Cryptocurrency market growth will likely hinge on licensing progress, transparency, and how well companies align with regulators.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency markets are volatile and carry risk. Always do your own research before making investment decisions.