- Gemini receives MFSA approval to offer MiFID II futures and options.
- Approval supports Gemini’s push to meet rising demand for crypto derivatives.
- Early regulatory approval positions Gemini among top European exchanges.
In a significant move to strengthen its European market presence, Gemini has secured MFSA approval for an investment firm license. This marks a key step in the company’s strategy to offer MiFID II-regulated products like futures and options to clients across Europe
Gemini Expands European Presence with MFSA Approval
Gemini has received in-principle approval from the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) for an investment firm license. This regulatory approval will enable the cryptocurrency exchange to offer regulated services across the European Economic Area (EEA). The move highlights Gemini’s commitment to expand its European operations in compliance with local regulations.
Gemini’s European expansion strategy revolves around securing the necessary regulatory approvals. The company plans to operate its MiCA application through Malta as its primary base of operations. Once it secures the full MiCA license, Gemini will be able to offer a unified regulatory framework for its services across multiple European Union markets.
Advantages of the Investment Firm License
The investment firm license enables Gemini to offer MiFID II-regulated futures and options trading. This approval also allows the company to provide perpetual futures trading services across European markets. As demand for crypto derivatives increases, the approval enables Gemini to serve both institutional and retail investors seeking more advanced trading options.
The approval is expected to enhance Gemini’s position in the European market by attracting more clients. The company can now offer a broader range of advanced trading products, including perpetual futures. Mark Jennings, Head of Europe at Gemini, emphasized how this regulatory move aligns with the company’s long-term vision for expansion and market growth.
The investment firm license complements Gemini’s existing offerings, such as its ActiveTrader™ platform, which includes more than 80 trading pairs. Gemini also offers over-the-counter (OTC) services and an eOTC trading system tailored to institutional clients. These features, combined with the new license, will further enhance Gemini’s service offerings and attract more users.
Gemini Edges Against Competitors
Gemini is positioning itself to adapt to future changes in cryptocurrency regulations. Gemini has secured early approval before the full implementation of MiCA which enables the company to adapt quickly to legal frameworks. This proactive approach gives the company a competitive edge in the European market and underscores its commitment to align with global regulatory standards.
The regulatory approval also positions Gemini among other major exchanges, such as Coinbase, Kraken, Crypto.com, and OKX, that seek to obtain MiCA compliance. These companies aim to quickly secure regulatory approval ahead of MiCA’s full implementation. As the European market grows, an early approval can provide Gemini with competitive advantages to establish market dominance.