Cryptocurrency exchange Kraken is contemplating the removal of Tether (USDT) from its European Union platform due to the forthcoming Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA). The regulation, which introduces strict rules for stablecoins, may complicate Kraken's support for USDT in Europe.

MiCA imposes transaction limits and reserve requirements for stablecoins, with rules for asset-referenced tokens and e-money tokens enforced from June 30, 2024. Large stablecoins like Tether will be capped at 200 million euros in daily transactions. Tether's CEO criticized these regulations, citing the challenge of maintaining the required 60% cash reserves in multiple European banks.

Kraken's global head of regulatory strategy confirmed the exchange is reviewing its support for Tether, planning for all scenarios including potential delisting. Meanwhile, Tether expressed its expectation that exchanges will maintain EUR liquidity for European customers, but does not plan to comply with MiCA's framework due to the impracticality of reserve requirements.

The impending MiCA implementation signifies a dramatic change for stablecoins in Europe, with other exchanges like OKX already delisting Tether in preparation. This development underscores the need for exchanges to carefully navigate regulatory challenges to continue effective customer service.