MoonPay launches in Wisconsin as the cryptocurrency payment processor secures a Money Transmitter License (MTL), marking its entry into the 46th U.S. state. This regulatory approval enables Wisconsin residents to buy crypto through MoonPay without platform fees, reinforcing the company’s commitment to secure, compliant growth.
Wisconsin holds a unique place in crypto history as the first U.S. state to recognize Bitcoin legally, making MoonPay’s move into the state particularly symbolic. The license allows MoonPay to facilitate transactions in major cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), and USDC, leveraging its Helio acquisition to broaden payment options.
“Obtaining a Wisconsin MTL is a major milestone,” said Jane Thompson, a fintech analyst at CoinDesk. “It demonstrates MoonPay’s dedication to regulatory compliance and sets a benchmark for safe crypto adoption in the U.S.”
The approval process was rigorous, spanning 11 months of documentation and compliance checks. MoonPay met capital reserve requirements, implemented anti-money laundering (AML) programs, and conducted extensive staff training to satisfy state cybersecurity and consumer protection rules.
For Wisconsin residents, the license means easier access to cryptocurrency without incurring extra fees from MoonPay, though standard network charges still apply. The move also positions MoonPay strategically in the Midwest, a region showing increasing interest in digital assets. Businesses and platforms integrating MoonPay can now offer compliant crypto payment solutions to a tech-savvy user base.
MoonPay’s Wisconsin launch aligns with its broader U.S. expansion and global compliance strategy. Alongside its European MiCA license, this state-level approval underscores the company’s approach: combining innovation with strict adherence to regulatory frameworks. As the crypto industry continues to mature, licenses like this are crucial for fostering trust and encouraging mainstream adoption.
With MoonPay now active in 46 states and over 160 countries, its Wisconsin license strengthens its foothold in the U.S., signaling a future where cryptocurrency payments are not only accessible but also secure and regulated.