Gemini Expands into Europe: Launches Crypto Derivatives Trading

Gemini, the cryptocurrency exchange co-founded by the Winklevoss twins, has officially received regulatory approval to offer crypto derivatives trading throughout Europe. This significant expansion follows the acquisition of a Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II (MiFID II) license from the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA).

This MiFID II license, secured by Gemini’s Maltese entity, Gemini Intergalactic EU Artemis on May 8th, 2025, allows the exchange to offer a range of crypto derivatives, including perpetual futures, across the European Union and the European Economic Area (EEA).

Mark Jennings, Gemini’s Head of Europe, highlighted this milestone achievement, stating, “This license represents a major step in our European expansion, bringing us closer to providing regulated derivatives to both retail and institutional clients.”

Perpetual Futures and Beyond

Gemini plans to roll out a selection of sophisticated derivative products, with perpetual futures being a key offering for advanced traders. Jennings confirmed that the exchange is diligently working to fulfill all necessary conditions for a timely launch across Europe in the coming months.

While this MiFID II license marks substantial progress, Gemini is still actively pursuing its full MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets) license. The company previously announced Malta as its European compliance hub and secured its sixth European VASP registration in December 2024.

A Booming Derivatives Market

Gemini’s European expansion perfectly mirrors the broader trend of increasing interest in crypto derivatives. The recent $2.9 billion acquisition of Deribit by Coinbase, and Kraken’s planned acquisition of NinjaTrader, underscore the significant growth and investment in this sector. This expansion positions Gemini to capitalize on the burgeoning European crypto market and compete with major players.

Related: Coinbase’s Deribit Acquisition Highlights Growing Derivatives Market