European governments are hoping to position Europe as the new global crypto hub. Its transparent regulatory framework attracts both investors and platforms, while the U.S. continues to struggle with legal ambiguity. The implementation of the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulatory framework in Europe has led to a surge in digital asset activity. At the same time, the U.S. has struggled to define its own framework of comprehensive crypto regulations amid pro-crypto rhetoric.
Defined rules in Europe have led to a significant uptick in digital asset market activity. Taking a different spin, crypto exchange Paybis announced a fantastic 70% growth in trading volume from European users in the first quarter of 2025. France, for one, has seen a huge increase in activity — more than 170% — under its relatively new crypto regulation. MiCA’s passporting regime means a crypto firm only has to get approved in one EU state to operate across the entire EU bloc.
American activity has slowed. Meanwhile, consumer-facing platforms such as Robinhood are experiencing a dramatic drop-off in crypto volumes—more than a third. As the U.S. continues to grapple with ongoing legal uncertainty, even amidst the pro-crypto rhetoric of its pyramidal leadership. The GENIUS Act, a bipartisan bill currently awaiting a vote in the U.S. Senate, would implement national rules and definitions for stablecoins.
Passage of the GENIUS Act could open up that much momentum here, just like Europe is currently enjoying. Alexander is an award-winning content creator and market analyst. A lawyer with more than 8 years of practice in cryptocurrency and blockchain, he keeps a close eye on emerging regulatory developments, new technologies, and macroeconomic trends. In his lengthy tenure, Alexander has established a well-deserved reputation for providing timely, honest and intelligent analysis.
Alexander’s mission is to bring digital assets to everyone in a way that’s easy-to-understand and engaging. He argues that Europe offers a crystal-clear regulatory picture. This certainty indeed provides it the more appealing place for crypto businesses and investors than the U.S.
