XRP News Today: Gemini's XRP Derivatives Signal EU Expansion, Defy SEC Scruture with ETF Momentum

Gemini, the cryptocurrency exchange founded by the Winklevoss twins, has launched XRP perpetual contracts for European Union traders through its Malta-registered subsidiary, Intergalactic EU Artemis Ltd. The new product offers up to 100x leverage on XRP, marking Gemini's first leveraged XRP derivative available in the EU and expanding its regulated derivatives offerings in European markets. The contracts, settled in USDC, allow traders to take long or short positions without fixed expiration dates, a feature designed to cater to advanced traders seeking continuous exposure to XRP price movements.

The launch aligns with Gemini's strategy to strengthen its presence in regulated crypto derivatives markets outside the U.S. By leveraging its MFSA authorization, the platform aims to provide institutional-grade security and compliance while competing with offshore exchanges in the volatile crypto space. XRP joins Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana as supported assets in Gemini's USDC-settled perpetual contracts lineup, bringing the total number of derivatives offerings to four. The exchange emphasized that perpetual contracts carry significant risks, including liquidation due to margin requirements, and are not suitable for all investors.

XRP's inclusion reflects its status as one of the most actively traded digital assets globally. According to CoinGlass data, XRP derivatives volume reached $13.18 billion, with $3.35 billion in open interest as of November 2025.

Gemini's decision to introduce XRP derivatives underscores the token's enduring demand despite regulatory scrutiny from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Meanwhile, Franklin Templeton recently filed an updated S-1 amendment for its proposed XRP exchange-traded fund, signaling growing institutional interest in the asset.

The move also highlights Gemini's broader ambitions in the European crypto market. The exchange has previously expanded its product suite to include prediction market contracts and now aims to attract professional traders with its combination of leverage options, liquidity, and regulatory compliance. However, the product is subject to geographic and availability restrictions under EU laws, and users are reminded of the high-volatility risks associated with leveraged trading.