EU Signals Future Evolution of MiCA Framework to Match Crypto Market Maturity

The European Union is preparing for the eventual evolution of its landmark crypto-asset regulatory framework, signaling that a 'MiCA 2' is probable as the digital asset ecosystem matures. Peter Kerstens, an adviser at the European Commission’s financial services department, highlighted this trajectory during Paris Blockchain Week 2026, noting that EU financial legislation typically evolves in stages. The move comes as the original MiCA rules, designed when the market was dominated by a few large assets and numerous smaller tokens, face the realities of a more complex and diversified landscape. By updating the framework, EU policymakers aim to prevent legal uncertainty that often arises when technological innovation outpaces existing law. Under the current mandate, the Commission is required to report on the application of MiCA by June 30, 2027. This review process will include a 'no taboos' public consultation, allowing industry participants to identify where rules should be expanded, adjusted, or left unchanged to better support business development. Market pressures for adjustment are already mounting. Stablecoin issuer Circle has recently urged the Commission to modify parts of its Market Integration Package, specifically requesting lower thresholds for the use of euro-denominated stablecoins in settlement. Simultaneously, officials are weighing whether to shift the supervision of major crypto firms to the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) to resolve concerns over inconsistent enforcement across member states.