CZ: Binance's Greek MiCA License Application Nearly Approved, Withdrawn Due to External Factors

Odaily, Binance founder CZ stated that Binance's MiCA license application submitted in Greece fully complied with regulatory requirements before being withdrawn and was close to approval, but the process was ultimately halted due to "intervention from external political factors."

In an interview, CZ said that several countries within the EU had expressed interest in the license, even showing a degree of "competitive solicitation." However, the final regulatory progress was impacted by non-regulatory factors, forcing the application to be withdrawn. Binance formally withdrew its Greek application last week and stated it would shift focus to other EU member states to continue pursuing MiCA authorization. Addressing market rumors linking him to high-ranking EU political figures, CZ said he had not seen any verifiable documents, only similar claims online, which he could not confirm.

CZ also pointed out that the EU's MiCA transition period will officially end on July 1st. Platforms that have not obtained a license by then must cease operations of related services. National regulators have made it clear there will be no extension. He described the outcome as a "lose-lose situation" and, citing the regulatory journeys of Japan and Singapore as examples, emphasized that the compliance process often requires a longer cycle.

Furthermore, when discussing Strategy's STRC preferred stock product, CZ said its structure is "overly complex" and that he finds it difficult to fully understand its mechanics. However, he stressed that this is not a judgment on the credibility of its founder, Michael Saylor, whom he considers a "staunch Bitcoin supporter." (The Block)