Major cryptocurrency exchanges like Binance, Crypto.com, and Kraken continue listing Tether's USDT on their European platforms, even after Coinbase's removal of the stablecoin to comply with upcoming MiCA regulations.
Key Developments (December 17 Update)
- OKX confirmed it maintains USDT trading pairs for EU users despite earlier reports of removal.
- Bitpanda and others still offer USDT, with no immediate plans for delisting.
- MiCA’s full implementation deadline remains December 30, leaving exchanges time to finalize compliance strategies.
Europe’s Crypto Exchanges Defy USDT Removal Trend
While Coinbase delisted USDT on December 13, citing MiCA compliance, other platforms argue regulatory clarity is still lacking. Authorities have not explicitly labeled USDT as non-compliant.
Exchanges Still Supporting USDT in the EU:
- Binance
- Crypto.com
- Kraken
- KuCoin
- MEXC
- Bitget
- OKX (prioritizing EUR/USDC pairs but retaining USDT)
👉 Why USDT remains pivotal for crypto liquidity
MiCA’s Stablecoin Rules: What’s Next?
The Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation’s Phase 1 stablecoin framework, active since June 2024, will fully apply by December 30. Exchanges must decide whether to:
- Delist non-compliant stablecoins.
- Adjust trading pairs (e.g., favoring EUR/USDC).
- Await further regulatory guidance.
OKX’s statement:
"USDT remains available, but we’ve prioritized EUR/USDC pairs for EEA users. Any delisting announcements will be public."
FAQs: USDT and MiCA Compliance
Q: Why did Coinbase delist USDT in Europe?
A: Preemptive compliance with MiCA’s stricter stablecoin rules, though no official EU ruling yet declares USDT non-compliant.
Q: Will Binance remove USDT by December 30?
A: Unconfirmed. Binance has not announced plans, suggesting they may wait for clearer regulations.
👉 Explore compliant stablecoin alternatives
Q: Can EU users still trade USDT on Kraken?
A: Yes, as of December 17, Kraken continues supporting USDT pairs.
The Road Ahead for Stablecoins in Europe
With MiCA’s deadline looming, exchanges face a balancing act:
- Liquidity: USDT dominates trading volumes.
- Compliance: Risk of penalties if stablecoins fail MiCA’s transparency/backing requirements.
Key Takeaway: While Coinbase’s move sets a precedent, most platforms await definitive EU action before altering USDT listings.
Last updated: December 17, 2024
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