In a significant move for the digital asset industry, Bitstamp by Robinhood has officially secured a Major Payment Institution (MPI) license from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). This approval positions the exchange as a fully compliant player in one of Asia’s most influential financial hubs—just as the region enforces stricter rules on unlicensed crypto platforms.
The announcement, made on July 3 via an official press release, confirms that Bitstamp now operates under full regulatory oversight in Singapore. This milestone not only validates its adherence to rigorous financial standards but also marks the company’s strategic entry into the Asia-Pacific (APAC) market, with Singapore serving as its regional base.
What the MPI License Means for Bitstamp
Holding an MPI license grants Bitstamp the authority to provide a wide range of payment services within Singapore without being subject to certain monetary thresholds that typically burden emerging fintech firms. Specifically, licensed institutions are exempt from maintaining:
- A minimum of 3 million SGD in monthly transaction volume per payment service
- A daily outstanding e-money threshold of 5 million SGD
This regulatory flexibility allows Bitstamp to scale operations efficiently while focusing on compliance, user protection, and strategic partnerships. More importantly, it signals strong trust from one of the world’s most respected financial regulators—the MAS.
For users and institutional clients alike, this means enhanced security, transparent operations, and access to a regulated platform rooted in accountability.
Expanding Into APAC: A Strategic Move
With the new license in hand, Bitstamp by Robinhood has launched a dedicated APAC team based in Singapore. The team will focus on building local expertise across key areas including:
- Market analysis and regional trends
- Strategic partnerships with financial institutions
- Regulatory compliance tailored to Southeast Asian markets
- Customer support and community engagement
“We understand the region and work diligently to build trust through responsive, face-to-face collaboration,” Bitstamp stated in its announcement.
This localized approach reflects a growing trend among global crypto platforms: rather than applying a one-size-fits-all model, successful players are investing in on-the-ground teams to navigate complex regulatory environments and build genuine market presence.
👉 See how top exchanges are adapting their strategies to meet evolving regulatory demands across Asia.
Singapore’s Crypto Crackdown: Context and Impact
The timing of Bitstamp’s licensing is particularly noteworthy. In early 2025, MAS issued a firm directive: all unlicensed crypto firms must cease operations in Singapore by June 30. While the regulator had communicated this requirement for years, the deadline sparked widespread concern about a potential crypto exodus from the country.
Several major international exchanges have responded differently:
- Bitget and Bybit, which have not yet received MAS approval, announced plans to relocate Singapore-based staff or shift them to remote roles.
- Binance chose to maintain its workforce in Singapore but transitioned employees to remote-only status, closing its physical office.
Despite these pullbacks, Bitstamp’s successful licensing demonstrates that regulatory compliance is achievable—and increasingly necessary—for long-term success in the region.
Joining the Ranks of Regulated Global Exchanges
Bitstamp by Robinhood now stands alongside other globally recognized platforms such as OKX and Coinbase, both of which have established offices and obtained full licensing in Singapore. This growing cohort of compliant operators underscores a broader shift in the crypto industry: from decentralized, borderless experimentation toward regulated, institutionally integrated finance.
What sets Bitstamp apart is its hybrid backing—combining the legacy credibility of Robinhood with the operational maturity of Bitstamp’s European roots. Prior to entering Asia, the platform had already secured regulatory approvals under Europe’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework, as well as necessary licenses in the U.S. and U.K.
This multi-jurisdictional compliance strategy positions Bitstamp as a truly global player—one built for sustainability in an era of increasing oversight.
Why Regulatory Licensing Matters in 2025
As governments worldwide tighten control over digital assets, licensing is no longer optional—it's foundational. For users, trading on a licensed platform means:
- Protection against fraud and insolvency
- Clear legal recourse in disputes
- Compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) standards
- Greater confidence in platform stability
For businesses, licensing opens doors to banking relationships, institutional investors, and mainstream adoption.
Singapore’s stance reflects a global trend: regulators are not banning crypto, but reshaping it into a safer, more accountable ecosystem. Platforms that adapt—like Bitstamp—are likely to thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a Major Payment Institution (MPI) license in Singapore?
A: Issued by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), an MPI license allows firms to provide payment services—including e-money issuance and cross-border money transfers—with full regulatory compliance. It requires rigorous audits, capital adequacy, and ongoing reporting.
Q: Is Bitstamp by Robinhood safe to use in Asia?
A: Yes. With its MPI license from MAS and prior regulatory approvals in Europe (MiCA), the U.S., and the U.K., Bitstamp operates under strict financial oversight across multiple jurisdictions, enhancing user security and trust.
Q: Why did some crypto firms leave Singapore?
A: Firms that failed to meet MAS licensing requirements by the June 30 deadline were required to stop operations. Some chose partial exits—relocating staff or going remote—while others continue applying for approval.
Q: How does Bitstamp’s licensing affect users outside Singapore?
A: While the license directly impacts operations in Singapore, it strengthens Bitstamp’s global reputation. Users worldwide benefit from increased platform legitimacy, improved compliance infrastructure, and potential future expansions into neighboring markets.
Q: Can unlicensed platforms still operate in Singapore after June 30?
A: No. As of July 1, 2025, all unlicensed crypto firms must cease offering services to Singapore residents. MAS maintains a public register of approved providers for consumer reference.
Q: What’s next for Bitstamp in Asia?
A: With its APAC team now active in Singapore, Bitstamp is expected to expand partnerships, launch localized products, and possibly enter other regulated markets in Southeast Asia—such as Thailand or Japan—using Singapore as a strategic hub.
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