AscendEX permanently shuts down trading, deposits, staking and swaps after MiCA compliance pressure and failed liquidity deal

AscendEX has permanently halted trading, deposits, staking and swap services. The exchange cited full enforcement of EU MiCA rules and a failed liquidity transaction, while on-chain observations showed reduced hot wallet balances and users reported delayed or blocked withdrawals. Remaining withdrawals will be handled manually, but timing and final payout amounts are uncertain.
AI Analysis
The exchange has permanently shut down core services and users are reporting delayed or blocked withdrawals, which is clearly negative for customers and trust. The summary also notes reduced hot wallet balances and uncertainty over remaining withdrawals, making this a materially adverse exchange-related event.