Rotterdam’s Blockrise Gets MiCAR License To Expand Bitcoin Custody Across Europe

The Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM) has granted Blockrise a license under the new MiCAR (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation) framework.

With this MiCAR license, the Dutch company can now provide its Bitcoin services throughout Europe using a single authorization.

Jos Lazet, CEO of Blockrise, says, “This license shows that our Bitcoin services have matured. Institutional investors and wealthy individuals want to invest in Bitcoin, but they prefer dealing with regulated companies that offer transparency and security. Now that we have the MiCAR license, we can grow our presence in the European market.”

Blockrise focuses exclusively on Bitcoin and does not offer services for any other cryptocurrencies.

“Choosing Bitcoin-only was logical given its market dominance and lower volatility. It also simplifies our proposition for clients,” says Lazet.

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The MiCAR license intensifies pressure on traditional financial institutions to revisit their Bitcoin offerings. Demand for Bitcoin-related services has surged over the past year, especially for Bitcoin-backed loans credit facilities secured with Bitcoin as collateral.

“Our clients asked us to provide loans using Bitcoin as security, and we quickly developed this service ourselves,” Lazet says.

Starting this week, Blockrise will offer its new Bitcoin-backed loans to all corporate clients, with amounts starting at €20,000. Clients retain full ownership of their Bitcoin, which will not be used for other purposes, and the service fully complies with MiCAR regulations.

Earlier this year, Blockrise raised €2M in its first funding round from venture capital firms and angel investors to support its growth. With the MiCAR license secured, the company is now preparing to raise an additional €15M.

Lazet adds, “We are working hard to become the leading Bitcoin-only platform in the European Union, and we want to attract investors who believe in our vision for Bitcoin.”

Blockrise is a crypto custody platform that helps investors securely manage and safeguard their digital assets. Its services include secure storage, trading, and portfolio management tools, all delivered with transparency and ease of use.

The company emphasizes high standards in crypto security and compliance. In 2022, Blockrise received registration from the Dutch Central Bank, marking a major milestone in its development. Clients retain full control over their assets at all times, reflecting the company’s commitment to accountability, trust and responsible crypto asset management.

About Blockrise

Founded in 2017, Blockrise is a Bitcoin-focused crypto custody platform built for the long term. Serving all types of investors, it provides ultra-secure storage and investment strategies with full transparency.