Monaco Submits Draft Bill to Align Crypto Rules With MiCA
Monaco prepares legislation to adapt cryptocurrency regulations to EU standards.
1Monaco's Crypto Regulation Reform
The Monaco government has prepared a new draft bill to revise cryptocurrency regulations enacted in 2022. Submitted to the National Council on August 6, 2026, the bill aims to align with the EU's Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) and Financial Action Task Force (FATF) standards. The proposal introduces clearer rules and stricter operational requirements for crypto asset service providers operating in Monaco.
2Shortcomings of Current Regulations
Law No. 1.528, adopted in 2022, divided crypto asset services into two categories based on activity type. While asset issuance and operational services required approval from the State Minister, investment services needed authorization from the Financial Activities Control Commission (CCAF). The law also mandated that companies applying for licenses must establish a registered company in Monaco and prohibited foreign firms from soliciting Monegasque residents through advertising.
3Key Provisions of the New Bill
Bill No. 1131 provides clearer definitions for legally operating crypto asset services in Monaco. It introduces stricter operational requirements covering corporate governance, prudential safeguards, and professional conduct standards. Under the proposed rules, service providers must obtain prior authorization from the CCAF. Licenses will only be granted after joint reviews by the Monegasque Financial Security Authority and the Monegasque Digital Security Agency.
4Expansion of Supervisory Powers
The new bill expands the CCAF's supervisory and enforcement powers. Government officials state that enhanced oversight aims to strengthen regulatory compliance and prevent money laundering and other illicit financial activities. If approved by the National Council, the statutory framework will be followed by secondary regulations detailing practical and technical requirements for businesses.
5Monaco's Grey Listing Process
Monaco's decision to revise its cryptocurrency regulations comes more than a year after being added to the European Commission's list of high-risk countries for money laundering. The Principality has been on the FATF grey list since summer 2024. Being grey-listed can lead to transaction delays and increased costs in international capital markets.
6Long-Term Financial Implications
Inclusion on the European Commission's high-risk list may result in more severe consequences beyond transaction delays and higher costs. This status could lead to downgrades in the country's and corporations' credit ratings, increasing borrowing costs in international capital markets. Monaco's new regulations aim to mitigate these risks.
7Global Crypto Regulation Trends
Monaco's move is part of a growing global trend toward increased cryptocurrency regulation. The EU's MiCA regulation, FATF standards, and other international efforts aim to bring more transparency and stability to crypto markets. Countries are rapidly updating their legislation to comply with these standards.
8Monaco's Financial Center Status
Monaco's update to its crypto asset regulations reflects the Principality's effort to maintain its status as an international financial center. The new regulations aim to boost investor confidence and position Monaco as a more attractive hub for crypto asset services. This move could also strengthen Monaco's growth potential in the digital finance sector.
Original article: Bitcoin News — Monaco, Kripto Düzenlemelerini MiCA ile Uyumlu Hale Getiriyor