Gemini Secures Regulatory Approval in Malta, Strengthening European Expansion

Gemini has achieved a significant regulatory milestone after receiving in-principle approval from the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) for an investment firm license.

This development marks a crucial step in the exchange’s European expansion, bringing it closer to offering fully regulated crypto services across the European Economic Area (EEA).

Advancing European Market Expansion

The approval aligns with Gemini’s long-term strategy of strengthening its presence in Europe by securing regulatory recognition. The exchange has also applied for a Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) license, with plans to use Malta as its primary operational hub.

Once granted a full MiCA license, Gemini will be able to streamline its business operations across the European Union, benefiting from a unified regulatory framework that simplifies compliance across multiple markets.

Expanding Regulated Trading Services

With the investment firm license, Gemini will be authorized to offer MiFID II-regulated futures and options, expanding its trading services to both institutional and retail clients. As demand for perpetual futures trading grows, this regulatory approval will enable Gemini to meet investor needs while ensuring compliance with European financial standards.

Mark Jennings, Head of Europe at Gemini, emphasized the importance of this milestone, noting that institutional investors are increasingly interested in crypto derivatives. By securing regulatory approval, Gemini can enhance its market position and provide secure, compliant trading solutions.

The exchange remains committed to regulatory compliance while expanding its product offerings. This approval will allow Gemini to introduce advanced trading instruments comparable to those in traditional financial markets, further strengthening its appeal to professional investors.

Positioning for Future Regulatory Changes

As cryptocurrency regulations evolve, Gemini’s proactive approach to compliance gives it a competitive edge. By obtaining regulatory approvals ahead of MiCA’s full implementation, the exchange is positioning itself to swiftly adapt to new legal frameworks.

Gemini’s license will complement its existing product suite, which includes the ActiveTrader™ platform with over 80 trading pairs, an over-the-counter (OTC) desk, and an electronic OTC (eOTC) trading system designed for institutional clients. The introduction of perpetual futures trading is expected to expand its offerings and attract a wider user base.

Rising Competition Among Crypto Firms in Europe

Gemini’s move comes as competition among crypto exchanges intensifies in Europe. Companies such as Coinbase, Kraken, Crypto.com, and OKX have also been working to secure MiCA compliance before the regulations take full effect.

MiCA, adopted by the European Union in 2023, aims to provide clear regulatory guidelines for digital asset firms, ensuring consumer protection and consistency across member states. Early regulatory approvals will offer firms a first-mover advantage in capturing market share.

With its authorization from MFSA, Gemini has positioned itself as a key player in the evolving European regulatory landscape. The exchange will now focus on obtaining full European financial licensing, allowing it to provide sophisticated trading services under a compliant framework.

Conclusion

Gemini’s latest regulatory approval in Malta signals a major step forward in its European expansion. By securing an investment firm license and working towards full MiCA compliance, the exchange is demonstrating its commitment to regulatory standards while strengthening its competitive position.

As the crypto industry moves toward increased regulation, firms that prioritize compliance will likely shape the future of the digital asset sector. Gemini’s strategic positioning could give it a significant advantage in the growing European market.