tl;dr
US-based Gemini has obtained a Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID) II license from the Malta Financial Services Authority, enabling it to offer regulated crypto derivatives, including perpetual futures, across the EU and EEA to advanced users. This milestone advances Gemini's 2025 Eur...
US-based cryptocurrency exchange Gemini has secured a Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID) II license from the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA). This milestone authorizes Gemini to offer regulated crypto derivatives, including perpetual futures, across the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) to advanced users.
Obtaining the MiFID II license is a critical step in Gemini's 2025 European expansion strategy, which aims to serve both retail and institutional clients throughout the region. The exchange is actively working with regulators to fulfill conditions for a full-scale launch and is pursuing an additional Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) license. The MiCA license will allow Gemini to broaden its regulated cryptocurrency offerings across EU member states.
Gemini’s decision to base its European licensing efforts in Malta reflects the jurisdiction's reputation as a favorable environment for crypto businesses. This move aligns with an industry-wide trend as many crypto firms relocate their operations to regions with clear regulatory frameworks. Major players like Crypto.com, Kraken, and Coinbase have also recently intensified their presence in Europe, attracted by the legal clarity brought by the EU’s newly adopted MiCA regime.
Mark Jennings, Gemini’s Head of Europe, expressed optimism about this development, highlighting how the license positions Gemini closer to offering derivative products for both retail and institutional users across the EU and EEA. As digital asset demand continues to surge from diverse investor segments, Gemini’s regulatory progress paves the way for growth in one of the world’s most promising crypto markets.