Gemini Gains EU License to Launch Crypto Derivatives in Europe

Gemini, the cryptocurrency exchange founded by Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, has received regulatory approval to expand its crypto derivatives trading in Europe, marking a significant milestone in its global growth strategy.

On May 8, 2025, Gemini was granted a Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II (MiFID II) license by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), enabling the firm to offer regulated crypto derivatives across the European Union and European Economic Area.

“This license marks a critical step in our European expansion,” said Mark Jennings, Gemini’s Head of Europe. “Once we commence business activities, we’ll be able to offer regulated derivatives throughout the EU and EEA under MiFID II.”

Source: MFSA

The new offerings will target advanced users and include perpetual futures alongside other crypto derivatives. Jennings confirmed that Gemini will work over the coming months to fulfill the remaining regulatory conditions to launch these products.

Gemini’s Maltese entity, Gemini Intergalactic EU Artemis, officially received the MiFID II license on May 8, 2025, according to MFSA records. This follows a series of regulatory strides in Europe, including six virtual asset service provider (VASP) registrations, the latest in December 2024.

Despite the MiFID II milestone, Gemini has yet to secure full licensing under the European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework, though it designated Malta as its MiCA compliance hub earlier this year.

The move aligns with a broader surge in crypto derivatives interest. On May 8, Coinbase announced a $2.9 billion acquisition of Deribit, one of the largest global crypto derivatives platforms. This followed Kraken’s May 1 confirmation of its $1.5 billion deal to acquire futures trading platform NinjaTrader.

As institutional demand rises and competition intensifies, Gemini’s entry into the European derivatives market positions it to play a key role in the next phase of crypto trading evolution.