France is increasing AML checks on crypto companies ahead of the European Union Crypto Asset Markets (MiCA) licensing, Bloomberg reports.
France, which has taken a tougher stance on cryptocurrency companies, has increased anti-money laundering (AML) inspections against dozens of exchanges, including big names like Binance and Coinhouse.
France’s prudential supervision and resolution authority (ACPR) has expanded AML checks on more than 100 crypto asset service providers (PSANs) to determine which firms qualify for a MiCA license, as it places exchanges under closer scrutiny.
France has been conducting on-site inspections focusing on AML compliance since late last year, including requiring Binance to strengthen its risk controls.
To continue operating in France, crypto companies must obtain a MiCA license through the country’s Financial Markets Authority (AMF) by the end of June 2026.
Any deficiencies identified during audits could hinder this process. So far, only a few companies have managed to obtain licenses: fintech firm Deblock, crypto platform GOin, Bitcoin savings app Bitstack, and CACEIS, owned by Credit Agricole.
*This is not investment advice.