Italy's Consob Issues Directive for Virtual Asset Service Providers

According to PANews, the Italian securities market regulator, Consob, has issued a notice regarding the European Union's Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCAR). Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) currently registered with Italy's OAM must apply to become regulated Crypto Asset Service Providers (CASPs) by December 30, 2025, to continue operations. Failure to comply will result in the cessation of services by June 30, 2026. Consob advises investors to verify whether their current VASP intends to apply for a CASP license and to check if the service provider is listed in the registries of the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) or OAM. If a service provider is unauthorized, investors have the right to request the return of their assets. The regulator also urges VASPs that do not apply for CASP authorization to cease operations by December 30, close all contracts, and return user funds. VASPs must clearly disclose their future operational plans or exit strategies to users. This announcement is part of efforts to ensure a smooth and orderly transition as MiCAR is fully implemented across the EU.