Reed Smith Unveils Aquarius Compliance Platform for EU Crypto Regulation

Reed Smith LLP has launched an automated compliance platform called Aquarius to help crypto-asset issuers navigate the EU's Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA). The platform, which went live on July 13, is designed to aid entities in complying with MiCA's requirements, particularly after the grandfathering period ended on July 1. As a result of this change, all crypto entities operating in Europe must now be fully compliant.

Aquarius bundles several automated modules into a single compliance toolkit. It starts by categorizing tokens, which determines everything downstream, from disclosure requirements to licensing obligations. The platform also handles white paper generation, ESG compliance checks, and generates legal entity identifiers (LEIs). LEIs are the 20-character alphanumeric codes that regulators use to track financial market activity.

Reed Smith has emphasized the importance of real-time updates on MiCA regulatory changes. With Aquarius built to reflect these updates, issuers can ensure they remain compliant in a rapidly changing regulatory landscape. Reed Smith plans to expand Aquarius beyond MiCA, targeting white-paper compliance regimes in various jurisdictions including the UK, UAE, Hong Kong, and Singapore.