France Intensifies Probe Into Binance Amid EU Crypto Regulation Push

French authorities have launched an extensive investigation into global cryptocurrency exchange Binance as part of a broader effort to strengthen anti-money laundering (AML) compliance across Europe. The move comes as regulators tighten oversight of the crypto industry ahead of the EU’s upcoming Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework, which will reshape how digital asset firms operate across the bloc.

According to Bloomberg, France’s Prudential Supervision and Resolution Authority (ACPR) has begun comprehensive inspections of crypto platforms to assess whether they meet the country’s stringent AML and counter-terrorism financing standards. Among the companies under review are Binance and Paris-based Coinhouse. During a 2024 inspection, the ACPR reportedly instructed Binance to improve its risk management and compliance mechanisms. In response, Binance stated that “periodic onsite inspections are a standard part of regulated supervision” and confirmed its continued cooperation with French regulators.

This latest probe builds on earlier investigations launched in January, when French prosecutors began examining Binance for potential money laundering, tax evasion, and illegal financial activities. The exchange already faces similar scrutiny in other jurisdictions, including the United States and Nigeria.

French regulators are particularly focused on whether crypto firms comply with PSAN rules, which require platforms to monitor suspicious transactions, safeguard user funds, and report irregular activities. Firms found lacking are typically given time to make improvements, but the ACPR can refer serious noncompliance cases to France’s financial markets authority, which may deny or revoke MiCA licensing.

France has set a June 2026 deadline for all crypto service providers to obtain MiCA authorization. Only a few companies, including Deblock, GOin, Bitstack, and Credit Agricole’s CACEIS, have secured approval so far. Meanwhile, Binance also faces a $79.5 billion lawsuit from Nigerian authorities over alleged tax evasion and currency manipulation.

France’s latest enforcement actions highlight growing tension among EU member states over consistent crypto oversight. Regulators in France, Italy, and Austria have called on the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) to take a stronger supervisory role, ensuring uniform compliance across Europe’s rapidly evolving digital asset market.