European Blockchain Convention Returns to Barcelona for Europe’s First Post-MiCA Gathering

The 12th European Blockchain Convention (EBC12) is scheduled to take place in Barcelona on September 16–17, 2026. This event marks the first significant institutional meeting across Europe after the full implementation of the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation, which took effect eleven weeks prior.

The convention serves as a key forum bringing together over 300 leaders from banks, regulators, asset managers, and industry stakeholders to discuss and influence the future of Europe’s digital asset market.

Focus Areas at EBC12 Following MiCA Enforcement

With MiCA now fully enforced, the discussions at EBC12 will center on critical next steps, including:

  • Licensing requirements for Crypto-Asset Service Providers (CASPs)
  • Stablecoin issuance frameworks
  • The role of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) in cross-border settlements

The event consolidates the European digital asset ecosystem into a comprehensive two-day program held at the Palau de Congressos de Catalunya. This arrangement streamlines networking and deal-making opportunities, which would otherwise be distributed across major cities like London, Paris, and Frankfurt.

Europe’s Leadership in Compliant Digital Asset Markets

Europe has emerged as a frontrunner in establishing compliant and scalable digital asset markets. The regulatory frameworks support sustainable crypto growth and attract substantial institutional investments.

Examples of this momentum include Deutsche Börse’s $200 million investment in Kraken and Openbank’s expansion of crypto trading services in Germany and Spain. Representatives from these institutions are expected to actively participate in discussions shaping the digital asset landscape during the convention.

Growing Institutional Participation and Strategic Focus

This year’s convention anticipates the involvement of 80 of Europe’s top 100 banks, a notable increase from 50 the previous year. The focus has shifted from debating institutional entry into digital assets toward strategic engagement and capital deployment.

Victoria Gago, Co-CEO of European Blockchain Convention and Digital Assets Forum, highlights that since EBC’s inception in 2018, European banks are now actively investing, with live institutional products and established regulatory frameworks in place. The convention remains the pivotal annual event for industry leaders to engage in meaningful business.

Convention Program and Key Topics

Program sessions will cover a wide range of topics, including:

  • Institutional capital allocation in digital assets
  • Tokenization of real-world assets
  • Regulatory market frameworks
  • The evolving role of stablecoins and CBDCs as global financial infrastructure

Notable Speakers and Industry Experts

Confirmed speakers include:

  • Emma Landriault, Head of Kinexys Labs, J.P. Morgan
  • Mohamad Zaraket, Head of Digital Assets Strategy EMEA, BNY Mellon
  • Kathleen Wrynn, Global Head of Digital Assets, Invesco
  • Victor Jung, Vice President, Digital Assets & Currencies, Hamilton Lane
  • Previn Singh, Fidelity
  • Colin Payne, Head of Innovation, Financial Conduct Authority

More than 300 industry experts from banking, asset management, infrastructure, and regulatory sectors are expected to participate.

Additional Convening Opportunities

Beyond the main sessions, EBC12 will facilitate:

  • 10,000 pre-arranged one-on-one meetings
  • A Buy Side Breakfast for allocators and investors
  • A dedicated press room with direct access to speakers

The event is expected to attract over 5,000 participants from more than 90 countries, underscoring its importance in both the European and global blockchain and digital asset arenas.

Key Takeaways

  • The 12th European Blockchain Convention marks the first major meeting after the MiCA regulation enforcement.
  • Focus areas include CASP licensing, stablecoin issuance, and CBDCs in cross-border payments.
  • Europe leads in creating compliant digital asset markets attracting significant institutional investments.
  • Participation from top European banks is growing, shifting towards strategic digital asset engagement.
  • The event features industry leaders, extensive networking opportunities, and sessions covering critical blockchain topics.