France’s Silent One-Third: A MiCA Deadline That Could Reshape Europe’s Crypto Landscape
France’s financial regulator has raised a red flag after revealing that nearly one-third of the country’s registered crypto firms have not yet indicated whether they plan to apply for a MiCA license before the June 30 deadline. While some companies have already submitted applications and others have openly declined to pursue authorization, a significant portion has remained completely silent — leaving regulators unsure whether these firms intend to comply, shut down, or quietly relocate.
This uncertainty comes at a time when MiCA is fully coming into force across the EU, introducing strict capital, operational, and disclosure requirements for digital asset firms. Larger players have generally embraced the framework for the clarity it brings, but many smaller companies are reportedly struggling with the cost and complexity of full compliance.
The lack of response from so many French firms is now stirring broader questions: Are these businesses overwhelmed by the new rules? Are they weighing a move to more flexible jurisdictions? Or are they waiting until the last minute to decide their fate? Whatever the reason, the next few months could mark a major turning point — not just for France, but for the competitiveness and innovation landscape of the European crypto market as a whole.