Standard Chartered granted MiCA and EMI licence, advancing its digital asset strategy in Europe
Standard Chartered today announced that it has been granted authorisation under the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) Regulation as well as an Electronic Money Institution (EMI), marking a significant milestone in the next phase of its Financing & Securities Services digital asset custody strategy in Europe.
The authorisations provide Standard Chartered with a regulated entry point to offer digital asset services from Luxembourg, with expansion across the European Union (EU), subject to applicable regulatory approvals and cross-border rules.
Building on the establishment of its Luxembourg entity in 2025, the authorisation strengthens the Bank’s position as it expands its digital asset capabilities in a leading regulatory environment. Luxembourg will serve as the hub for Standard Chartered’s European digital asset custody operations, in line with regulatory permissions, including passporting under MiCA where applicable, and a phased rollout of services.
Margaret Harwood-Jones, Global Head of Financing & Securities Services, Standard Chartered, said: “Securing our MiCA and EMI licences is a key step in progressing our digital asset journey in Europe. It reflects our commitment to operating within robust regulatory frameworks while enabling our clients to navigate the digital asset ecosystem with confidence. As institutional adoption accelerates, we are well positioned to support clients with secure, compliant and innovative solutions.”
Laurent Marochini, CEO, Standard Chartered Luxembourg added: “We are delighted to have obtained our MiCA and EMI licences, which enables us to progressively expand services to clients across Europe. This landmark authorisation reflects our strategic choice of Luxembourg, demonstrating the close and constructive collaboration we have had with The Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF) throughout this journey.”
The authorisation builds on recent milestones, including the launch of digital asset custody services in Asia and the Middle East, and supports growing client demand for regulated access to this evolving asset class in Europe.
