Gemini Secures Key Licenses to Dominate EU Crypto Derivatives Market
Gemini, the crypto exchange founded by Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, has reached a key milestone in its European expansion strategy by obtaining in-principle approval for an Investment Firm license from the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA). Once this license is fully granted, Gemini will be authorized to offer regulated crypto derivatives, including perpetual futures, across the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) under the MiFID II framework. This achievement reinforces Gemini’s plan to establish Malta as its central hub in the EU and positions the company to apply for a Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) license, which aims to create a unified regulatory standard for crypto activities across Europe.
This approval marks a significant advancement in Gemini’s bid to meet the rising institutional demand for crypto derivatives, as digital assets continue to gain mainstream acceptance. Mark Jennings, Gemini’s Head of Europe, highlighted that the license will enable the platform to deliver a full range of regulated futures and options products throughout the EU and EEA, building on its existing offerings such as the spot exchange, ActiveTrader™ platform, and over-the-counter (OTC) services.
Alongside its progress in Malta, Gemini has also achieved registration as a Digital Asset Service Provider (DASP) with France’s financial watchdog, the Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF). This accreditation allows Gemini to serve both retail and institutional clients in France, providing access to over 70 cryptocurrencies, trading through its website and mobile app, and advanced tools like ActiveTrader™ and its eOTC platform. France’s proactive embrace of crypto regulations, seen in its early adoption of MiCA rules, has created a favorable market where 9% of the population now holds crypto assets—outpacing stock ownership. These strategic moves underline Gemini’s commitment to growing its European presence with secure, compliant crypto services.