Payhound, a leader in cryptocurrency conversion and international payment processing, has officially secured approval under the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework, becoming one of the first companies in Europe licensed to operate as a Crypto Asset Service Provider (CASP).

The MiCA framework aims to unify crypto regulations across the bloc. By implementing a single regulatory structure, the EU intends to enhance transparency, consumer protection and security within the cryptocurrency sector, while providing businesses with greater clarity on compliance requirements.

With just 89 companies authorised so far, this development places Payhound – previously Moneybite – among a select group of providers, including well-known names like Blockchain.com and OKX, able to serve the entire European Union market under one consistent regulatory structure.

The new MiCA licence allows Malta-based Payhound to offer its crypto, stablecoin payment, and settlement services across all EU member states without the need for separate national approvals. This regulatory clarity introduces stronger protections and transparency around how digital assets are transferred, exchanged, and held on behalf of clients.

The company has long been licensed in Malta under the Virtual Financial Assets (VFA) framework, a regime known for rigorous oversight of operational processes, custody, security, and anti-money laundering measures.

Malta’s VFA framework has been widely considered as an inspiration for the EU’s MiCA framework.

The transition to the MiCA CASP licence extends this regulatory foundation, clearly defining Payhound’s permitted services, which include crypto-asset transfer services, order execution, custody, administration, and exchanges involving crypto-assets and fiat funds.

Describing this development as an important step for the company and its clients, Elton Dimech, Managing Director at Payhound, concluded: “We are pleased to have received our MiCA authorisation. The new framework brings much more clarity to the European market, and it strengthens the level of assurance we offer to businesses that rely on us for their payment operations.”