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In a significant move for the cryptocurrency sector, Gate.io, a leading global crypto exchange, has announced that its Malta-based entity, Gate Technology Ltd., has obtained a Payment Institution (PI) license under the European Union's Second Payment Services Directive (PSD2) from the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA).
This license enables Gate to provide regulated stablecoin payment services across the EU, aligning with the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulations.
Announced on February 26, 2026, this development positions Gate as one of the few crypto-native companies in Europe to achieve such regulatory approval, bridging traditional finance and Web3 infrastructure.
Key Takeaways
- Regulatory Milestone: Gate Technology Ltd. secures PSD2 PI license from MFSA, enabling EU-wide stablecoin payments.
- Passporting Rights: Allows seamless expansion across the EEA, complementing existing MiCA approvals for exchange and custody.
- Bridge to Web3: Positions Gate to integrate traditional finance with crypto, enhancing user security and compliance.
- Industry Impact: One of few crypto-native firms with this approval, potentially accelerating stablecoin adoption in Europe.
- Future Focus: Aims to reduce costs and improve efficiency for institutional and retail users.
The PSD2 license grants Gate passporting rights, allowing the expansion of payment services throughout the European Economic Area (EEA) without needing additional approvals in each member state.
This comes on the heels of Gate's prior MiCA license for exchange and custody services, further solidifying its compliant operations in the region.
As stablecoins gain traction for cross-border payments and financial inclusion, this milestone could accelerate their adoption in Europe.
Details and Implications
Gate's achievement underscores the growing integration of cryptocurrency with regulated financial systems.
The PSD2 directive, enacted to promote innovation and competition in payment services, requires stringent compliance with anti-money laundering (AML), consumer protection, and data security standards. By securing this license, Gate can now offer fiat-to-crypto rails, stablecoin transfers, and other payment solutions that comply with EU laws.
Giovanni Cunti, CEO of Gate Technology Ltd., emphasized the strategic importance: "This license enables Gate to build a secure bridge between traditional finance and Web3, offering regulatory certainty for both institutional and retail clients."
The company aims to enhance stablecoin infrastructure, potentially reducing transaction costs and improving efficiency for users across Europe.
Industry experts view this as a catalyst for EU stablecoin payments. With MiCA set to fully enforce stablecoin regulations by mid-2026, Gate's dual licensing provides a competitive edge.
Stablecoins like USDT and USDC have seen explosive growth, with EU markets representing a key frontier amid global regulatory shifts.
This move also highlights Malta's role as a crypto hub, thanks to its progressive regulatory framework. Gate's expansion could attract more Web3 firms to the island nation, fostering innovation while ensuring compliance.
Conclusion
Gate's acquisition of the Malta PSD2 license marks a pivotal step toward mainstreaming stablecoins in the EU.
By aligning with PSD2 and MiCA, Gate not only strengthens its market position but also contributes to a more regulated and accessible crypto ecosystem.
As regulations evolve, this could pave the way for broader financial innovation, benefiting users with faster, cheaper, and compliant payment options.
Watch for further developments as Gate rolls out these services across Europe.
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FAQs:
1. What is the PSD2 license and why does it matter for Gate?
The PSD2 (Second Payment Services Directive) is an EU regulation promoting secure and innovative payment services. For Gate, it enables compliant stablecoin payments across Europe, expanding beyond trading.
2. How does this relate to MiCA regulations?
MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets) governs crypto activities in the EU. Gate's PSD2 license complements its MiCA approvals, ensuring full compliance for stablecoin issuance and transfers.
3. What benefits do users get from Gate's new license?
Users gain access to regulated, efficient stablecoin payment services, with enhanced security, lower costs, and seamless EU-wide transactions.
4. Is Gate the only crypto firm with this license?
No, but it's among the few crypto-native companies in Europe to secure PSD2 approval, highlighting its regulatory leadership.
5. When will these services be available?
Gate plans to roll out services soon, leveraging passporting rights for quick EU expansion post-February 26, 2026 announcement.
Disclaimer:
This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, legal, or tax advice; no material herein should be interpreted as a recommendation, endorsement, or solicitation to buy or sell any financial instrument, and readers should conduct their own independent research or consult a qualified professional.
