ESMA Consults on Crypto Professional Standards Under MiCA, Implementation Set for 2025

On February 17, the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) initiated a public consultation on guidelines for assessing the knowledge and competence of professionals offering crypto-asset services under the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA). These guidelines aim to standardize qualifications for individuals advising on digital assets across the EU. The proposal requires investment advisors to have a tertiary education or equivalent, 160 hours of training, and one year of experience. Those providing general information need 80 hours of training and six months of experience. All professionals must undergo exams and continuous training, with ESMA accepting comments until April 22, 2025, and planning to publish final guidelines in Q3 2025.