Bitcoin-Only App Relai Secures MiCA License In France
Swiss Bitcoin app Relai has made history by becoming one of the first Bitcoin-only companies to receive regulatory approval under Europe’s groundbreaking Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework. This significant milestone was achieved through the authorization granted to the Zurich-based firm as a Crypto-Asset Service Provider (CASP) by France’s Financial Markets Authority (AMF).
The approval of Relai marks a momentous occasion not only for the company itself but also for the wider Bitcoin ecosystem in Europe. The MiCA regulation, which was implemented earlier this year, aims to establish consistent rules for cryptocurrency companies across the European Union, with the goal of enhancing investor protection and reducing regulatory fragmentation among member states.
While major exchanges like Binance and Coinbase are still navigating the intricate licensing process, Relai’s early authorization gives it a competitive edge as one of the first Bitcoin-focused firms to achieve compliance. Julian Liniger, co-founder and CEO of Relai, expressed his pride in this achievement and shared plans to expand operations to France and subsequently across Europe.
Founded in Zurich in 2020, Relai has experienced growth despite facing challenges in the regulatory landscape for digital assets. The company successfully closed a Series A funding round last year and surpassed 500,000 app downloads, positioning itself as a user-friendly platform for European retail investors seeking exposure to Bitcoin without intermediaries.
With the MiCA license in hand, Relai is now able to “passport” its services throughout the EU, enabling it to operate in all 27 member states once formal notification procedures are finalized. The company is set to introduce a range of new features tailored to European users, such as Instant SEPA payments, higher trading limits, fixed-price transparency, and enhanced security measures.
In addition to enhancing its services, Relai is committed to investing in education and community-building initiatives, including localized learning resources and sponsorship of Bitcoin events across Europe. Adem Bilican, co-founder and president of Relai EU, emphasized the company’s objective of making Bitcoin accessible to as many people as possible in a simple, secure, and regulated manner.
To further strengthen its operations, Relai has appointed an advisory board consisting of industry veterans Jean Guillaume, Daniel Astraud, and Herve de Kerdrel. These seasoned professionals will provide guidance on regulatory compliance and strategic growth as the company leverages its MiCA approval to expand across Europe.
In a parallel development, Blockchain.com also announced its receipt of a MiCA license from the Maltese Financial Services Authority (MFSA). This recent wave of regulatory approvals signals a growing acceptance and integration of cryptocurrencies within the European financial landscape.
Looking ahead, Relai has outlined plans for marketing campaigns and app updates in 2026 to support its expansion across Europe. By staying true to its vision of bringing Bitcoin to a wider audience through simplicity, security, and regulation, Relai is poised to play a pivotal role in the ongoing evolution of the cryptocurrency industry.
