Gemini Secures In-Principle Approval from Malta for European Expansion
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Loading... - Edgar Ellis
- 18 Mar 2025
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Gemini, a prominent cryptocurrency exchange, has successfully obtained in-principle approval in Malta for an Investment Firm license. This significant development is contingent upon meeting the pre-authorization requirements set forth by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA). Once the license is fully granted, Gemini will be positioned to offer regulated futures and options to clients across the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA) under the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II (MiFID II).
The approval aligns with Gemini’s strategic decision to establish Malta as its EU hub, a move that underscores the island nation’s growing reputation as a favorable jurisdiction for cryptocurrency and fintech companies. Additionally, Malta has been selected as the jurisdiction for Gemini’s application under the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework. The MiCA approval will enable Gemini to continue providing secure and reliable services to customers in the region, further solidifying its presence in the European market.
Milestone for European Growth
Securing in-principle approval marks a crucial milestone in Gemini’s European growth strategy for 2025. Once the Investment Firm license is officially issued, MiFID II will allow Gemini to offer perpetual futures contracts to sophisticated traders and institutional investors throughout the EU and EEA. These contracts will be accessible through advanced trading options, enhancing the firm’s service offerings at both the institutional and retail levels.
Gemini currently operates a spot exchange featuring over 90 digital assets and its ActiveTrader™ platform, which includes more than 80 trading pairs. Institutional clients benefit from Gemini’s Over-the-Counter (OTC) desk and electronic OTC (eOTC) trading system, providing a comprehensive suite of trading solutions.
Insights from Leadership
Mark Jennings, Head of Europe at Gemini, emphasized the significance of this approval, stating that the in-principle approval for an Investment Firm license represents a substantial advancement for the company. He highlighted Gemini’s commitment to delivering high-quality services to both retail and institutional investors. With increasing interest in crypto derivatives, particularly from institutional clients, the demand for regulated trading services is on the rise. Jennings noted that as cryptocurrencies gain traction as an asset class, the need for compliant trading solutions becomes even more critical.
Enhancing Market Position
With this approval, Gemini is poised to strengthen its market share in Europe. The company aims to broaden its service offerings while adhering to the necessary legal and regulatory frameworks. If the final license is granted, Gemini will be well-equipped to cater to traders and institutions across Europe, facilitating seamless access to cryptocurrency trading and investment opportunities.
This approval also signals a growing acceptance of crypto-based financial instruments within the region, reflecting an evolving regulatory landscape that is becoming increasingly accommodating to the cryptocurrency sector. As Gemini continues to navigate this landscape, its commitment to compliance and quality service provision will be key to its success in the European market.
In conclusion, Gemini’s in-principle approval from Malta represents a significant step forward in its European expansion plans. By establishing a robust regulatory framework and enhancing its service offerings, Gemini is well-positioned to meet the needs of a diverse clientele in the rapidly evolving cryptocurrency landscape.
