Regulatory Compliance Drives Gemini's Australia Expansion

Gemini, the cryptocurrency exchange founded by Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, has launched a locally registered subsidiary in Australia, marking a significant expansion into the Asia-Pacific region. The new entity, Gemini Intergalactic Australia Pty Ltd, is now registered with AUSTRAC, Australia's financial intelligence and anti-money laundering regulator, a prerequisite for offering crypto exchange services in the country Gemini Expands Operations in Australia with AUSTRAC Registration^[1]. This move allows Australian users to trade cryptocurrencies using Australian dollars (AUD) through local banking integrations, including the New Payments Platform (NPP) for instant transfers and PayID for simplified account payments Gemini Expands Australia Push as New Crypto Rules Loom^[2].

The expansion underscores Gemini's commitment to the Australian market, where crypto adoption has surged to 22% of the population, according to the exchange's Global State of Crypto Report 2025 Gemini Expands Operations in Australia with AUSTRAC Registration^[1]. This adoption rate aligns with levels in the United States, reflecting growing retail and institutional interest in digital assets. To lead the initiative, Gemini appointed James Logan as Head of Australia, a seasoned professional with prior roles at Luno and Bitget. Logan's appointment emphasizes the exchange's focus on building a compliant and transparent ecosystem for both retail and institutional clients Gemini Expands Australia Push as New Crypto Rules Loom^[2].

Regulatory compliance remains central to Gemini's strategy. The exchange has transitioned all Australian customer accounts from its U.S.-based entity to the newly registered local subsidiary, effective September 18, 2025. This shift ensures adherence to Australia's evolving regulatory framework, which includes stricter oversight for crypto firms. Gemini has also announced plans to apply for an Australian Financial Services License (AFSL) from the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) to expand into regulated products such as derivatives for wholesale clients Gemini Expands Australia Push as New Crypto Rules Loom^[2].

The integration of local payment systems enhances user experience by eliminating the need for cross-border transfers to Gemini's U.S. accounts. This move aligns with Australia's broader regulatory push to strengthen oversight of the crypto sector, including a draft law requiring exchanges to hold licenses under the Corporations Act Gemini Expands Australia Push as New Crypto Rules Loom^[2]. Gemini's approach balances regulatory rigor with market responsiveness, as highlighted by Saad Ahmed, Head of APAC, who noted the company's intent to "build a safe, transparent, and compliant ecosystem" while observing the regulatory landscape's evolution Gemini Expands Australia Push as New Crypto Rules Loom^[2].

Market analysts view Australia as a strategic hub for crypto growth. The Australian Independent Reserve Cryptocurrency Index reported adoption rates rising to 31% in early 2025, up from 28% in 2024, reflecting heightened retail and institutional participation . Gemini's expansion aligns with this trend, positioning the exchange to capitalize on demand for digital asset services, including trading, staking, and credit cards, though the latter will require additional regulatory approvals Gemini Expands Operations in Australia Amid Regulatory Evolution^[4].

Looking ahead, Gemini aims to solidify its presence by offering localized services and fostering trust through compliance. The exchange's strategy mirrors broader industry trends, where global platforms establish local entities to navigate regulatory complexities and tap into regional markets. As Australia's crypto ecosystem matures, Gemini's focus on regulatory alignment and user-centric innovation positions it to compete with major players like Binance, Coinbase, and Crypto.com .