Dutch-based crypto platform Bitvavo gains approval to operate across Europe.
Bitvavo, one of Europe’s largest cryptocurrency trading platforms, has just received a full licence under the new Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA), marking a significant milestone for the crypto industry in the EU.
The licence, granted by the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM) and announced on June 27, 2025, means Bitvavo can now legally operate in all EU member states, as well as Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein.
“This licence is an important milestone for Bitvavo and our users,” said Jeetan Patel, Chief Risk Officer at Bitvavo. “It enables us to offer our services across Europe under a single licence… We highly value the constructive collaboration with the AFM throughout this process. It has progressed efficiently.”
What is MiCA?
The MiCA regulation or MiCAR aims to bring consistency and security to crypto trading in the EU by:
Creating harmonised rules for crypto service providers
Improving consumer protection and regulatory clarity
Eliminating the need for separate national registrations.
“We fully support the core principles of MiCAR. For a level playing field in Europe, it is essential that the rules are formulated and enforced consistently across all member states,” said Mark Nuvelstijn, CEO and co-founder of Bitvavo.
The licence clears the way for Bitvavo to expand services more efficiently across the EU, serving both retail and institutional clients. Users can expect:
A wider range of accessible crypto assets
A streamlined app and trading platform
Low fees and consistent user protections.
Bitvavo’s growing footprint
Launched in Amsterdam in 2018, Bitvavo now boasts nearly two million users. It claims the title of the largest player in the global EUR spot market, underlining its ambitions to dominate Europe’s crypto landscape.
While MiCA promises much-needed order, some critics argue that regulation could stifle innovation.
Let us know what you think. Is this the beginning of crypto maturity in the EU, or the start of overregulation?
Inma from Archez. Credit: Locos de la Colina Facebook page.
Sometimes, running means more than running.
In just six months, Inma from Archez (a small village in the Axarquia region) has completed over 50 races across Andalusia. But what truly makes Inma stand out is her total commitment to causes that matter.
Inma wears her club’s colours (Locos de la Colina club in the Axarquia region) not just for sport, but for solidarity. Over the past few months, she’s taken part in charity races supporting cancer patients, working with organisations that fund research and assist families through the toughest of times.
She’s run for children with special needs, helping raise money for therapies and treatments to improve their quality of life. And she’s supported awareness for rare diseases, giving voice and visibility to families too often left unheard.
Each race she’s run has symbolised far more than participation, far more than endurance and competitive spirit. We’re talking about hope, compassion, and the belief that sport can be a powerful force for doing good.
All in all, Inma reminds us that running isn’t just about crossing finish lines: it’s about showing up for others. Empathy can go hand in hand with a passion for sport — that’s the real lesson.
And that makes Inma not just a runner, but also an inspiration.
Mayor of Estepona José María Garcia Urbano cuts the red tape again at Bazlama. Credit: EWN
Bazlama officially swung open its doors on Tuesday, July 15, to a huge crowd of fascinated new diners, eager to see what all the buzz was about. Mayor of Estepona, José María Garcia Urbano, was among them to cut the ceremonial ribbon and try out the flatbreads everyone has been talking about.
Co-Founder Sarah Moravvej explained, “We came across Bazlama in Istanbul and loved the food, the experience, and the whole concept. We felt it was something which was missing on the Costa del Sol.”
“Turkish food and hospitality are exceptional and deserve to be better known, and the Bazlama brand is amazing at transporting you to Turkey and delivering not just delicious Turkish cuisine but a true cultural experience.”
Bazlama is a family business, run by a mother-and-daughter team, drawing from recipes passed down through generations. They work hard to retain family values and make every guest feel like they are being welcomed into a traditional Turkish home. The love and generosity you feel at Bazlama restaurants is something special.
The breads that impressed José Maria García Urbano. Credit: EWN
The new restaurant in El Paraiso, located on Calle Isla Verde 12, Benamara, close to the Senator Banús Hotel, is Bazlama’s first European venture, introducing its celebrated all-you-can-eat Turkish breakfast to the continent. Open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm, the restaurant serves a scrumptious breakfast banquet featuring traditional breads, cheeses, jams, hot dishes like menemen scrambled eggs, and the signature bazlama flatbread. Guests can also enjoy gozleme and mezze set menus, paired with Turkish tea, drinks, and cocktails. The authentic flavours, made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including organic produce from a small family farm in Estepona, which create a healthy and delicious dining experience.
The opening has brought 19 new jobs to the area, with plans for more as Bazlama extends its opening hours. Committed to sustainability, the restaurant plans to implement a waste-free model by partnering with local charities. Since its inception in Cesme, Turkey, in 1992, Bazlama has expanded to six locations in Turkey and one in Dubai, with a London branch on the cards for the near future. The Costa del Sol outpost is a big step in the brand’s international expansion, offering a cultural adventure through dishes like acuka spicy red pepper spread and stuffed gozleme.
Sarah and her sister Salmeh have joined the brand’s strong female leadership, and they invite guests to experience Turkish hospitality and become part of the Bazlama family. To reserve a table, call 951 830 136 or follow @bazlamakahvalti on Instagram and Facebook.
José María García Urbano, mayor of Estepona comes to Bazlama. Credit: EWN
Nikki Beach Marbella has a very special daytime event coming up – “Sol & Sound”, headlined by the internationally celebrated house music artist Claptone.
On Friday, July 25, from 1pm to 9pm, the beachfront venue will transform into a hot dance haven under the Mediterranean sun, offering a unique experience with pulsating beats.
Recognisable by his trademark golden mask and a sound that fuses deep house with melodic and atmospheric elements, Claptone will take the decks. The enigmatic DJ, who previously performed at Nikki Beach Saint Barth for a New Year’s Eve celebration, is no stranger to captivating audiences worldwide. This time, he trades the dim lights of nightclubs for Marbella’s sunlit shores for a magical daytime set that’s a rare treat for fans.
Behind the golden mask lies an artist who has masterfully balanced mystery with a shining career. Claptone burst onto the house music scene in the early 2010s, and has become a global force in clubland ever since. His discography includes several studio albums and remixes for artists like Depeche Mode, Elton John, and Dua Lipa. As a festival favourite, he has performed at events like Tomorrowland and Coachella. His “The Masquerade” events, which have become known for their theatrical twist, have gained him a reputation as a leading figure in contemporary house music.
“Sol & Sound” will feature a dynamic lineup besides Claptone, with a back-to-back set by Dann Martin and Frank Osorio, as well as Stan Courtois. To add a touch of sophistication, Mood Sax will deliver a live saxophone performance, giving the day a fresh, elegant feel. It’s said the the beach club will be adorned with golden decoration and shimmering spheres, reflecting the warm tones of the sunset.
Nikki Beach Marbella remains a top destination for those seeking the best in house music, an exclusive atmosphere, and a prime location by the Mediterranean. The venue’s summer lineup is impressive, with upcoming performances by artists like Milk & Sugar on August 1 and David Penn on August 8, and with weekly events such as Catch Us Dancing! and Sun to Sea.
On July 25, “Sol & Sound” invites everyone to dance, relax, and soak up the unique energy of Claptone under the sun. Beds and tables can be booked at nikkibeach.com/marbella for this unmissable daytime party.
Nikki Beach is at Carretera de Cádiz, km 192, Marbella.