Hong Kong-based cryptocurrency exchange HashKey has obtained a license to offer several cryptocurrency-related services in Ireland.

To January. 7 advertisement From the company The prominent Asian cryptocurrency exchange has entered the Irish market by obtaining a virtual asset service provider license from the Central Bank of Ireland through HashKey Europe Limited, a member of the HashKey Group.

The license allows a cryptocurrency exchange to offer several cryptocurrency-related services, including fiat-to-crypto and crypto-to-crypto trading, custodial wallet services, and transfer of virtual assets on behalf of clients.

Outside of Ireland and Hong Kong, Haskey has continued to expand its global presence and has acquired licenses in SingaporeJapan and Bermuda.

The company that recently Fired HASK, its utility token, sees the expansion in Ireland as a “critical step towards strengthening its presence in key international markets,” according to the announcement.

The license comes as part of the EU Markets in Cryptoassets Regulation, which introduced mandatory licensing requirements from December 30, 2024, for all crypto service providers operating in the region.

So far, the Central Bank of Ireland has approved 16 virtual asset service providers, including Ripple, Paysafe, MoonPay, Gemini and Coinbase.

Under MiCAR, VASPs must Comply With strict anti-money laundering and anti-terrorist financing measures. In addition, companies undergo comprehensive assessments of their operational resilience, security protocols, and the suitability and integrity of their management and beneficial owners.

Exchanges also face more stringent reporting requirements, including enhanced monitoring of large, high-value transactions, with additional obligations to ensure transparency and compliance with regulatory standards.

In September last year, the Governor of the Central Bank of Ireland, Derville Rowland, said repeat The country’s commitment to achieving a balance between innovation and security within the MiCA framework. At the time, she said that cryptocurrency regulations play a key role in ensuring Ireland remains a safe and forward-looking financial centre.