Forex

Lagarde Blocks Binance's Pan-European License Bid Over Compliance Concerns

Guavy AI Editorial Team Published September 18, 2026

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EUR

ECB President Christine Lagarde personally intervened in Binance's attempt to secure a pan-European license, asking Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis not to approve the exchange's application. The Wall Street Journal reported this, citing people familiar with the talks and documents.

Binance had filed its application through the Greek regulator, but withdrew it in June ahead of an official decision. The company planned a photo shoot in Athens featuring CEO Richard Teng and the Greek prime minister, and also intended to open a local office.

The reason for Lagarde's opposition was Binance's compliance track record. In 2023, Binance and its founder Changpeng Zhao pleaded guilty in the US to violations of anti-money laundering and sanctions laws. The exchange agreed to pay $4.3 billion in fines.

Lagarde Blocks Binance's Pan-European License Bid Over Compliance Concerns

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