Alchemy Pay Secures EU Gateway With ZBX
Alchemy Pay has strengthened its foothold in Europe by forming an exclusive partnership with Malta-based ZBX Group, one of the first firms licensed under the EU’s new Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework. The move, announced on October 2, 2025, gives Alchemy Pay regulatory clarity to roll out its fiat-to-crypto gateway across the continent—an area where many industry players are still navigating compliance hurdles.
As part of the deal, Alchemy Pay has also taken a strategic stake in ZBX. Together, the two companies describe their cooperation as a “dual-engine” framework designed to deliver seamless, compliant payment solutions in Europe.
Why the Deal Matters
The MiCA framework, which began issuing licenses in January 2025, has set a high regulatory bar for crypto firms operating in the EU. Only a handful of global players—including Circle, Robinhood, OKX, and Bybit—have cleared the process so far.
By aligning with ZBX, Alchemy Pay gains immediate entry into this compliance-driven environment. ZBX is authorized by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) to operate as a crypto asset service provider under MiCA, giving Alchemy Pay direct access to regulated operations without needing to start from scratch.
The companies say this partnership provides a “more robust and efficient pathway” for building services that connect crypto with traditional finance, including on- and off-ramps integrating Visa, Mastercard, and regional banking networks.
Building a Compliance-First Model
The collaboration with ZBX follows Alchemy Pay’s recent expansion in Asia. In September, the company invested in Hong Kong’s HTF Securities, a licensed financial services firm regulated by the Securities and Futures Commission. That deal gave Alchemy Pay exposure to the coveted Type 1, 4, and 9 licenses, covering securities trading, advisory, and asset management—licenses that can also extend to digital assets.
With regulatory footholds in both Europe and Hong Kong, Alchemy Pay is positioning itself as a compliance-first payments gateway, catering to crypto users, institutions, and businesses seeking reliable fiat integration across multiple jurisdictions.
Looking Ahead
Alchemy Pay and ZBX have hinted that their cooperation could deepen into joint governance and equity participation, subject to regulatory approval. For now, the partnership gives Alchemy Pay a rare advantage: a direct line into Europe’s regulated crypto economy at a time when many competitors are still waiting on licenses.
As MiCA reshapes the European market, Alchemy Pay’s strategy highlights a broader trend—crypto companies are increasingly seeking licensed partners to scale globally without running afoul of new compliance regimes.