Poland’s Parliament Overrides Presidential Veto on Crypto Asset Bill

Poland's Sejm has overridden President Karol Nawrocki's earlier veto to pass a crypto-asset bill, stirring debate over the implementation of the EU's Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework.

Senate Review and KNF Authority

  • The bill will now move to the Senate. If approved, it will empower Poland's financial watchdog, KNF, with extensive control over domestic crypto operations.
  • This legislation aligns with MiCA, the EU-wide regulatory standard initiated this year.
  • Local crypto firms criticize the bill as overly restrictive, potentially stifling innovation and driving businesses to more favorable EU jurisdictions like Germany or the Netherlands.

Regulatory Tensions Across Europe

  • Poland's stringent approach contrasts with other EU countries adopting lighter regulations, risking regulatory arbitrage within the EU.
  • President Nawrocki originally vetoed the bill due to concerns about its impact on the tech sector, but the Sejm used an override mechanism to advance it.

Poland’s Crypto Sector Growth

  • Despite regulatory uncertainty, Poland's crypto sector is expanding, with Warsaw becoming a hub for blockchain startups.
  • The KNF has maintained a cautious stance, warning about speculative risks without imposing outright bans.
  • Full compliance with MiCA is required by 2025, pressuring Poland to finalize its framework without discouraging talent and capital.