Crypto exchange Gemini has made significant strides in its expansion plans throughout Europe by securing in-principle approval from the Malta Financial Services Authorities (MFSA). This pre-authorization represents a pivotal moment for Gemini as it prepares to enhance its offerings within the European market.
On February 11, 2025, Mark Jennings, Gemini’s head of Europe, announced this important regulatory milestone in a comprehensive blog post. He stated that the Investment Firm License is still pending full authorization but will eventually enable Gemini to provide regulated futures and options products across the European Union and the European Economic Area once it is fully approved.
This licensing will allow Gemini to operate in compliance with the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID II), a robust regulatory framework that governs investment services across the EU. Jennings emphasized the significance of this achievement, remarking, “Receiving in-principle approval for an Investment License is a key milestone in our commitment to providing a best-in-class offering for retail and institutional investors.”
The growing interest from institutions in crypto derivatives signifies the maturation of cryptocurrency as a recognized asset class. With the regulatory landscape evolving, Gemini’s pending license is poised to catch the attention of potential investors and crypto enthusiasts alike.
While Gemini is navigating its licensing process through Malta’s financial markets regulator, the impact of this license extends across the EU, setting the stage for enhanced regulatory clarity within the cryptocurrency sector. Numerous crypto exchanges and platforms are pursuing regulatory approval under the Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) legislation, showcasing a collective movement towards compliance and legitimacy.
Several notable firms, including Crypto.com and Bitpanda, successfully obtained MiCA licenses earlier in January, highlighting a trend among major players in the crypto industry to secure regulatory approvals. Gemini’s decision to establish Malta as its EU hub showcases its commitment to regulatory compliance and strategic expansion.
In addition to its regulatory milestones, recent reports suggest that Gemini may be considering an Initial Public Offering (IPO), further underscoring its ambitions in the evolving cryptocurrency landscape. As Gemini prepares to join a growing roster of firms with MiCA approvals, the implications of this development are vast, hinting at a future where regulated crypto products become widely accessible.
As regulatory frameworks continue to take shape, the importance of compliance cannot be overstated. Investors and cryptocurrency users alike will benefit from heightened transparency and trust that comes with regulated services. Stay tuned as Gemini embarks on an exciting journey towards becoming a leading player in the European cryptocurrency market.
