EU Supervisory Authorities warn consumers of risks and limited protection for certain crypto-assets and providers
The European Supervisory Authorities (EBA, EIOPA, and ESMA) have issued a warning to consumers regarding the risks associated with crypto-assets. They emphasize that legal protection for investors can be limited depending on the specific crypto-assets involved. This warning is accompanied by a factsheet explaining the implications of the new EU Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation for consumers. The ESAs advise consumers to take steps to make informed investment decisions, such as verifying if a crypto-asset provider is authorized in the EU. MiCA, which has been in effect since December 2024, creates a uniform supervisory framework for crypto-asset issuers and service providers across the EU. While acknowledging the potential benefits of innovative financial products like crypto-assets, the authorities stress that not all crypto-assets are equivalent and consumer protection may vary significantly. Consumers are strongly encouraged to educate themselves about crypto-assets and evaluate the associated risks before investing. They should also confirm the authorization status of crypto-asset service providers within the EU and ensure the security of their digital wallets. These recommendations are particularly relevant given the increasing consumer interest, partly fueled by social media promotions. The Joint ESAs factsheet provides a comprehensive overview of what constitutes a crypto-asset, which fall under MiCA's regulation, and the types of providers consumers might encounter.