- Crypto exchange Gemini gets Malta approval to offer crypto derivatives across the EU.
- The new license allows Gemini to expand its futures and options trading in Europe.
- Gemini will also be able to offer regulated crypto derivatives under MiFID II in the EU.
Gemini has secured in-principle approval for an investment firm license from Malta’s Financial Services Authority (MFSA). This will help the cryptocurrency exchange to offer futures and options trading across the European Union and European Economic Area (EEA) under MiFID II regulations.
This regulatory milestone aligns with Gemini’s selection of Malta as its EU headquarters and chosen jurisdiction for its Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) application. The approval positions Gemini to expand its trading services throughout Europe while operating within established regulatory frameworks.
Mark Jennings, Gemini’s Head of Europe, highlighted the growing institutional interest in crypto derivatives as digital assets mature into a recognized asset class. The license will allow Gemini to offer perpetual futures contracts to advanced traders and institutions across the EU and EEA, expanding beyond its current spot exchange offerings.
The exchange’s existing services include a spot trading platform with over 90 digital assets and 80+ trading pairs through its ActiveTrader™ interface. Institutional clients already have access to Gemini’s OTC desk and eOTC trading system, with the new license set to broaden these institutional offerings.
The expansion into regulated derivatives trading comes as part of Gemini’s 2025 European strategy. Under the MiFID II framework, which governs traditional financial markets, the exchange will provide regulated cryptocurrency derivatives products to qualified traders throughout the region.
Related: SEC Officially Acknowledges 21Shares’ Spot Solana ETF Filing
This development places Gemini among a select group of cryptocurrency exchanges authorized to offer regulated derivatives trading in the European market. The move toward regulated derivatives trading indicates the growing sophistication of cryptocurrency markets and increasing institutional demand for diverse trading products.
The approval process includes meeting MFSA’s pre-authorization requirements before the final license grant. This regulatory approach through Malta will allow Gemini to extend its services across all EU member states and EEA countries, creating a unified operational framework for its European derivatives offerings.
