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Analysis · Regulation & Policy

ESMA Proposes Sweeping MiCA Reforms to Target DeFi and Unregulated Stablecoins

The EU's financial markets regulator has called for stricter rules on crypto influencers, a new regulated service category for DeFi access, and enhanced powers to block fraudulent websites.

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October 1, 2026basisdesk.news
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Key point 1 of 3

01

ESMA has proposed a new regulated service category for firms providing user access to DeFi protocols.

October 1, 2026basisdesk.news
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Key point 2 of 3

02

The regulator is seeking the power to block fraudulent websites, freeze assets under suspicion of market abuse, and target unauthorized offshore firms.

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Key point 3 of 3

03

Proposed rules would mandate strict disclosures for staking, lending, and borrowing, alongside tighter restrictions on influencer marketing.

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Context

MiCA was implemented in 2024 to establish a harmonized regulatory framework across the EU, but rapid market developments in DeFi, staking, and stablecoins have prompted the…

October 1, 2026basisdesk.news
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Why it matters

Crypto-asset service providers, DeFi front-ends, and staking operators in Europe will face stricter disclosure and licensing rules, while offshore firms soliciting EU clients will…

October 1, 2026basisdesk.news
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What to watch

The European Commission will use the feedback collected from the consultation, which closed on August 31, to draft future legislative updates to the MiCA framework.

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Sources

Built from 3 primary sources, machine-checked before publication.

  • ESMA News
  • esma.europa.eu
  • finance.ec.europa.eu
October 1, 2026basisdesk.news
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