Gemini just scored big in Europe, snagging a coveted MiFID II license from Malta’s financial watchdog on May 8, 2025. This game-changer lets them offer crypto derivatives across the EU and EEA through “passporting” rights. Smart move picking Malta – it’s basically crypto’s Mediterranean paradise. The timing’s perfect too, with competitors like Coinbase and Kraken scrambling for market share. There’s more to this strategic chess move than meets the eye.
In a move that signals major disruption in Europe’s crypto landscape, Gemini has snagged a coveted MiFID II license from Malta’s financial watchdog. The cryptocurrency exchange isn’t messing around – this license is their golden ticket to offer derivatives across the entire European Union and European Economic Area without the headache of country-by-country approvals.
Malta, that sunny Mediterranean crypto haven, wasn’t chosen by accident. The island’s crypto-friendly stance made it the perfect launchpad for Gemini’s European ambitions. After months of regulatory engagement, the exchange finally secured their approval on May 8, 2025. Talk about playing it smart. With this regulatory blessing, Gemini can now roll out perpetual futures and other derivatives to both everyday traders and big-money institutions across Europe.
Malta’s strategic position as a crypto-friendly hub makes it the perfect springboard for Gemini’s bold European expansion plans.
The timing couldn’t be more interesting. Just as Coinbase gobbles up Deribit and competitors like Kraken and Crypto.com flex their own regulatory muscles, Gemini crashes the party with this power move. Under the guidance of Mark Jennings, Gemini’s head of Europe, the company is setting ambitious goals for market expansion. Unlike Binance.US restrictions, Gemini’s European platform won’t face such severe limitations on cryptocurrency offerings. It’s getting crowded in Europe’s crypto derivatives scene, and everyone wants a piece of the action.
This isn’t just another business expansion – it’s Gemini’s strategic play for 2025. They’re eyeing Europe’s massive potential market, and this MiFID II license is just the beginning. Word is they’re already plotting their next move: a Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) license. Because apparently, one regulatory green light isn’t enough.
The real kicker? This license comes with “passporting” rights – fancy talk for being able to operate across the EU without jumping through endless regulatory hoops in each country. For European traders itching to engage with regulated crypto derivatives, Gemini’s platform is about to become their new playground.
Let’s be real – Europe’s regulatory landscape is about as simple as a Rubik’s cube. But Gemini’s managed to crack it, positioning themselves to compete with the big boys in the derivatives game. With both retail and institutional investors demanding regulated crypto products, Gemini’s timing couldn’t be better. They’re not just entering the market; they’re planning to shake it up.
