Solana News Today: Gemini Stakes Claim in EU Crypto Race with Staking and Leverage-Driven Perpetuals

Gemini, the cryptocurrency exchange founded by Tyler and Cameron Winklevoss, has expanded its services in the European Union by introducing ether (ETH) and solana (SOL) staking alongside perpetual futures contracts for its EU customers. The move follows recent regulatory approval under the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) and comes after the firm transitioned to a Malta-based entity to meet compliance standards [1]. This expansion is part of Gemini’s broader strategy to position itself as a leading trading destination for European investors [2].

Under the new Gemini Staking service, EU users can stake any amount of ETH or SOL without minimum requirements and earn variable rewards. While Ethereum staking returns are subject to fluctuation, Solana staking offers up to 6% in annual percentage rate (APR) [1]. The firm has emphasized institutional-grade security for these services, including segregated cold storage and compliance with ISO 27001 and SOC 2 Type II certifications [2]. Gemini has also streamlined the staking process, allowing users to access the feature directly from the app's "Explore" tab [1].

Gemini’s new derivatives product, Gemini Perpetuals, enables sophisticated investors to trade perpetual contracts with up to 100x leverage and no monthly expiration dates. These contracts are denominated in USDC and are offered under Gemini’s MiFID II license [1]. The service allows users to leverage their existing spot holdings as cross-collateral, enabling complex strategies such as leverage, shorting, and arbitrage [2]. The offering aims to meet growing demand for exposure to digital assets, as derivatives currently represent the majority of global crypto trading volume [2].

The expansion into EU markets marks a significant step in Gemini’s European growth strategy. The company has previously introduced staking services for UK customers, and its new Malta-based structure aligns with regulatory requirements across the EU [1]. CEO of Europe, Mark Jennings, stated that the firm is focused on providing risk-managed financial instruments and building an intuitive, secure platform for both retail and professional investors [1]. Gemini’s commitment to compliance is evident in its alignment with the MiCA framework, which the firm views as an opportunity to support Europe’s leadership in global crypto regulation [2].

The introduction of these products underscores Gemini’s aim to serve as a one-stop shop for European crypto traders. By offering a combination of staking, perpetuals, and spot trading, the firm is positioning itself to cater to a wide range of investor profiles. The expansion also reflects the broader trend of regulated crypto platforms gaining traction in the EU, as investors increasingly seek compliance and transparency [2]. As Gemini continues to roll out new features, the firm’s presence in the region is expected to grow alongside the maturation of the EU’s crypto regulatory landscape.

Source: [1] Crypto Exchange Gemini Expands EU Offering with Staking and Perpetuals (https://www.coindesk.com/business/2025/09/05/crypto-exchange-gemini-expands-eu-offering-with-staking-perpetuals) [2] Gemini Launches Staking and Derivatives for EU Customers (https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-launches-staking-and-derivatives-for-eu-customers)