Cryptocurrency exchange Gemini has secured in-principle approval from the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) for an Investment Firm License. The move is seen as a significant step in its European expansion.
This preliminary approval allows Gemini to offer regulated futures and options contracts to retail and institutional investors in the European Union and the European Economic Area.
All activities are to be under the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID II) regulatory framework.
Moreover, Gemini has designated Malta as its primary hub for EU operations and the base for its Market in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) application. The final license approval will enable Gemini to broaden its range of services in Europe.
Strategic Implications of the License
Obtaining the Investment Firm License is a pivotal move for Gemini’s growth in the European market. It will potentially allow the exchange to offer perpetual futures contracts to advanced traders and institutional investors.
This license will complement Gemini’s existing services, including a cryptocurrency exchange with the ActiveTrader™ platform, with over 100 trading pairs, and an OTC and eOTC system for institutional investors.
Further, Mark Jennings, Head of Europe at Gemini, stated that receiving in-principle approval is a key milestone because demand for crypto derivatives has grown significantly in recent years.
He added that the license allows Gemini to operate in a vast market, including countries such as Austria, Belgium, Germany, and Romania. This will ensure a secure and compliant trading environment under European regulations.
Broader European Expansion for Cryptocurrency
Gemini’s expansion is part of a broader trend among crypto firms seeking to strengthen their European presence. Similarly, Exchanges like Coinbase and OKX have also announced plans to expand in the region ahead of MiCA’s full implementation.
Moreover, MiCA, adopted by the EU in 2023, aims to standardize crypto regulations across the EU, enhance consumer protections, and reduce regulatory fragmentation. In preparation for this expansion, Gemini has been strengthening its European team.
Also, they appointed Mark Jennings as Head of Europe and Daniel Slutzkin as Head of the UK in January 2025. Gemini has received approval to create a reliable system for investors and support digital asset growth in Europe.
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