This is how Amsterdam helps drivers adapt to new 30 km/h limits
The traffic authorities tap into some psychology hacks to train road users for the new reality
The exchange machines were illegal lacking permits to operate
Germany’s Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) removed 13 illegally installed cryptocurrency exchange machines in Stuttgart, Munich and other cities. The reason cited for the action was that the ATMs lacked permits for their operation under the country’s commercial proprietary trading or banking transaction legislation.
From BaFin's point of view, the machines are suitable for money laundering. "Operators who act illegally will be prosecuted by the police and public prosecutor's office," BaFin stressed, quoted by SWR. In such a case, perpetrators can expect up to five years in prison.
The German regulator further pointed out that crypto ATMs could become a hotbed for criminal activities if the operators fail to maintain proper know-your-customer (KYC) checks for transactions exceeding 10,000 euros. The forthcoming Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) within the European Union would mandate KYC and the reporting of all crypto transactions.
During the sting operation, the financial authorities also seized some 25 million euros in cash.
Reportedly, the demand for cryptocurrency exchange machines peaked during the COVID pandemic in 2021 when there was a pronounced surge in trading and in the prices of the cryptomarket. Currently, Germany has 176 Bitcoin ATMs in multiple cities with Düsseldorf leading the way in the number of these machines, followed by the capital Berlin and then Stuttgart.
These machines allow people to easily buy and sell cryptocurrencies in exchange for cash. Bitcoins can be transferred from and to these machines to wallets held by the users. However, the transaction fees associated with these ATMs are often higher compared to online exchanges.
It is estimated that worldwide there are over 2,500 crypto ATMs and their number is expected to continue growing.
It’s the first local authority in Austria to take this bold step
The traffic authorities tap into some psychology hacks to train road users for the new reality
Benoît Payan has an idea to reorganize the work of the city administration
The energy-saving devices are part of a wider programme on the part of the Spanish municipality to show support for local SMEs
Despite the small scale of an SMR, it won’t be cheap to build, and it could become a reality only in the next decade
The same goes for 5G coverage but that complete rate will be achieved already in 2025
The Danube Delta municipality is to surround itself with even more nature
It’s the first local authority in Austria to take this bold step
The energy-saving devices are part of a wider programme on the part of the Spanish municipality to show support for local SMEs
Bremerhaven is worried about the spreading of infections through this seemingly innocent act of compassion
Silesia is known as the industrial heart of the country, but its regional government wants to engender a new awareness among the youngest
Plus, you might have to book a spot in advance to view the famous attraction
Urban dwellers across the EU are having a say in making their surroundings friendlier to people and the environment.
Forests in the EU can help green the European construction industry and bolster a continent-wide push for architectural improvements.
Apply by 10 November and do your part for the transformation of European public spaces
An interview with the Mayor of a Polish city that seeks to reinvent itself
An interview with the newly elected ICLEI President and Mayor of Malmö
A conversation with the Mayor of Lisbon about the spirit and dimensions of innovation present in the Portuguese capital