Swiss Bitcoin app Relai has become one of the first Bitcoin-only companies to receive regulatory approval under Europe’s landmark Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework.
The Zurich-based firm announced today that it has been granted authorization as a Crypto-Asset Service Provider (CASP) by France’s Financial Markets Authority (AMF), according to a note shared with Bitcoin Magazine.
The approval marks a significant moment not just for Relai, but for the broader Bitcoin ecosystem in Europe. The MiCA regulation, which came into effect earlier this year, establishes uniform rules for crypto companies across the EU, aiming to increase investor protection and reduce regulatory fragmentation between member states.
While large exchanges like Binance and Coinbase are still navigating the complex licensing process, Relai’s early authorization gives it a head start as one of the first Bitcoin-only firms to achieve compliance.
“We’re incredibly proud to be one of the first Bitcoin companies to get the MiCA license and are eager to expand to France first — and Europe in a second step,” said Julian Liniger, co-founder and CEO of Relai. “This is a big moment for Bitcoin adoption on the continent.”
Relai is expanding a bitcoin-only vision across Europe
Founded in Zurich in 2020, Relai has grown despite a rough regulatory environment for digital assets.
The company closed a Series A funding round last year and surpassed 500,000 app downloads, establishing itself as a user-friendly gateway for European retail investors seeking exposure to Bitcoin without intermediaries.
With the MiCA license secured, Relai can now “passport” its services across the EU — meaning it can operate in all 27 member states once formal notification procedures are complete.
The company plans to introduce a suite of new features tailored to European users, including Instant SEPA payments, higher trading limits, fixed-price transparency, and enhanced security standards.
Relai also intends to invest in education and community-building, launching localized learning resources and sponsoring Bitcoin events across Europe.
“Our goal is clear: bringing Bitcoin to as many people as possible — simple, secure, and regulated,” said Adem Bilican, co-founder and president of Relai EU.
The company is also strengthening its governance with a newly appointed advisory board, featuring industry veterans Jean Guillaume, Daniel Astraud, and Herve de Kerdrel, who will provide guidance on regulatory compliance and strategic growth.
Relai plans to leverage its MiCA approval to expand across Europe, with marketing campaigns and app updates scheduled for 2026.
Yesterday, Blockchain.com announced it received a MiCA license as well, granted by the Maltese Financial Services Authority (MFSA),