ZBD has obtained an Electronic Money Institution (EMI) license in the Netherlands, setting its sights on expanding digital payment services across the European Economic Area (EEA).
With this new licensing, ZBD can now offer fiat-related services such as storing and transferring e-money, issuing debit cards, and introducing virtual IBANs for both business and consumer use.
This follows regulatory approval from December 2024 under the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCAR), positioning ZBD among early EU firms to gain this approval. Having both EMI and MiCAR authorizations enables ZBD to operate a range of fiat and crypto payment services throughout the EEA.
Fiat and Bitcoin Integration Through ClearBank
In its expansion, ZBD has partnered with ClearBank to support operations in the EU and EEA. Under this arrangement, ClearBank will offer both operational and safeguarding accounts necessary for managing business expenses and client funds.
This integration allows ZBD users to maintain euro balances alongside Bitcoin, facilitating cross-platform transactions within its ecosystem.
A representative from ZBD stated that obtaining the EMI license marks a significant milestone in extending their presence in the European payments market. The official added that by merging Bitcoin-focused infrastructure with fiat-based services, the firm aims to support integrated financial activities within interactive entertainment environments.
ZBD’s product strategy includes enabling cross-game and cross-platform fund transfers, such as spending euros in one game while earning Bitcoin rewards in another. This integration with ClearBank will help facilitate real-time payment processing and ensure compliance.
ClearBank officials highlighted that the partnership aligns with their commitment to providing compliant and scalable banking solutions. They expressed support for ZBD’s ambition to combine traditional finance with the speed and efficiency of newer technologies like the Lightning Network.
The EMI license positions ZBD to introduce a suite of new financial tools, especially in the gaming sector, aiming to simplify value movement across digital platforms by leveraging both regulated fiat services and crypto infrastructure.