Gemini Secures In-Principle Approval for European Crypto Expansion

Cryptocurrency exchange Gemini has secured in-principle approval from the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) for an investment firm license, marking a significant step in its European expansion strategy. The approval positions Gemini to offer regulated cryptocurrency services throughout the European Economic Area (EEA) and sets the stage for its application under the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework.

Upon full approval, Gemini will be able to provide regulated futures and options trading under the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II (MiFID II) across the European Economic Area. This expansion aims to meet the growing institutional demand for crypto derivatives trading in Europe, as the company plans to introduce perpetual futures contracts to its existing product lineup.

Gemini's European expansion strategy for 2025 includes building a stronger presence in the region while ensuring compliance with local regulations. The company has selected Malta as its primary base for the MiCA application, which would allow it to operate across the European Union under a standardized regulatory framework.

The regulatory approval process in Malta represents part of Gemini's larger European expansion strategy. The company aims to offer a wider range of services to both retail and institutional customers, including derivatives trading, to meet the growing demand for crypto assets in the region.

Gemini's current product offerings include its spot exchange for direct cryptocurrency trading, an over-the-counter (OTC) trading desk for large volume trades, the ActiveTrader™ platform for experienced users, and the eOTC system for institutional clients. These existing services will continue alongside the planned addition of derivatives trading.

The Malta approval process includes several stages, with the in-principle approval representing an early but important step. Gemini will need to meet additional requirements before receiving the final investment firm license. The company has not announced a specific timeline for launching its new services in Europe, but the regulatory approval process and subsequent operational setup typically take several months to complete.