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Bitcoin (BTC)
Classification under EU MiCA: Other Crypto-Asset (OCA)
Description: Bitcoin is a decentralized digital asset operating on a peer-to-peer network, utilizing a proof-of-work consensus mechanism. It does not reference any external assets or currencies and is not classified as an asset-referenced token (ART) or e-money token (EMT) under MiCA.
Key Characteristics:
- Decentralization: Operates without a central authority.
- Fixed Supply: Capped at 21 million units.
- Transparency: All transactions are recorded on a public ledger.
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Ethereum (ETH)
Classification under EU MiCA: Other Crypto-Asset (OCA)
Description: Ethereum is a decentralized platform that enables the execution of smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps). Its native token, Ether (ETH), is used to facilitate operations within the Ethereum network. It does not maintain a stable value by referencing external assets, thus not qualifying as an ART or EMT under MiCA.
Key Characteristics:
- Smart Contract Functionality: Supports programmable transactions.
- Decentralized Applications: Hosts a variety of dApps.
- Transition to Proof-of-Stake: Undergoing a shift from proof-of-work to proof-of-stake consensus mechanism.
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Ripple (XRP)
Classification under EU MiCA: Other Crypto-Asset (OCA)
Description: XRP is a digital asset designed to facilitate fast and cost-effective cross-border payments on the Ripple network. It does not aim to maintain a stable value by referencing external assets, and therefore is not categorized as an ART or EMT under MiCA.
Key Characteristics:
- High Transaction Speed: Enables rapid settlement of transactions.
- Low Transaction Costs: Offers minimal fees for transactions.
- Consensus Protocol: Utilizes a unique consensus algorithm distinct from proof-of-work or proof-of-stake.
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Cardano (ADA)
Classification under EU MiCA: Other Crypto-Asset (OCA)
Description: Cardano is a blockchain platform that employs a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism, focusing on security, scalability, and sustainability. Its native token, ADA, is used within the network for various functions. It does not maintain a stable value by referencing external assets, thus not qualifying as an ART or EMT under MiCA.
Key Characteristics:
- Proof-of-Stake Consensus: Enhances energy efficiency and security.
- Layered Architecture: Separates the settlement and computation layers for improved scalability.
- Research-Driven Development: Emphasizes peer-reviewed research in its development process.
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Binance Coin (BNB)
Classification under EU MiCA: Other Crypto-Asset (OCA)
Description: BNB is the native token of the Binance ecosystem, utilized primarily for transaction fee payments and participation in various services within the Binance platform. It does not aim to maintain a stable value by referencing external assets, and therefore is not classified as an ART or EMT under MiCA.
Key Characteristics:
- Utility Token: Provides users with benefits such as fee discounts within the Binance platform.
- Token Burn Mechanism: Regularly reduces the total supply through token burns.
- Ecosystem Integration: Serves multiple functions within the Binance ecosystem.
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USD Coin (USDC) – ERC-20 on Ethereum Chain
Classification under EU MiCA: E-Money Token (EMT)
Description: USDC is a stablecoin pegged to the U.S. dollar, issued by regulated financial institutions and backed by equivalent fiat reserves. It qualifies as an EMT under MiCA, as it maintains a stable value by referencing a single official currency.
Key Characteristics:
- Price Stability: Maintains a 1:1 value with the U.S. dollar.
- Regulatory Compliance: Issued by entities adhering to financial regulations.
- Transparency: Subject to regular audits to verify reserve holdings.
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Euro Coin (EUROC) – ERC-20 on Ethereum Chain
Classification under EU MiCA: E-Money Token (EMT)
Description: EUROC is a stablecoin pegged to the euro, issued by regulated entities with full backing by euro-denominated reserves. It qualifies as an EMT under MiCA, maintaining a stable value by referencing the euro.
Key Characteristics:
- Euro Denomination: Provides a digital asset pegged to the euro.
- Regulatory Compliance: Issued in accordance with financial regulations.
- Transparency: Undergoes regular audits to confirm reserve holdings.
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Paxos Gold (PAXG) – ERC-20 on Ethereum Chain
Classification under EU MiCA: Asset-Referenced Token (ART)
Description: PAXG is a digital asset backed by physical gold reserves, with each token representing a specific amount of gold. It qualifies as an ART under MiCA, as it maintains a stable value by referencing the value of gold.
Key Characteristics:
- Gold-Backed: Each token represents physical gold reserves.
- Stability: Value tied to the price of gold.
- Redeemability: Can be converted into physical gold through the issuer.
9. Polygon (MATIC)
Classification under EU MiCA: Other Crypto-Asset (OCA)
Description: Polygon is a layer-2 scaling solution designed to enhance the scalability, efficiency, and usability of Ethereum. It provides a framework for building and connecting Ethereum-compatible blockchain networks, reducing transaction fees and increasing throughput.
Key Characteristics:
- Scalability: Enhances Ethereum’s capacity through sidechains and rollups.
- Interoperability: Connects multiple blockchain networks within the Ethereum ecosystem.
- Low Transaction Fees: Reduces gas costs while maintaining security and decentralization.
This list may be updated from time to time without providing and explicit notice in advance as new assets are added or removed based on regulatory developments and platform requirements.