Gemini, the cryptocurrency exchange led by the Winklevoss twins, has chosen Malta as its operational hub for the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework after obtaining a Virtual Financial Assets (VFA) Service Licence from Maltese regulators in December.
According to reports from Finance Magnates, the license serves as the company’s Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) registration, underscoring Malta’s strategic role in its European expansion.
The exchange cited Malta’s forward-thinking approach to fintech and digital assets as a key factor in its decision. According to Gemini, the island nation offers a supportive environment for innovation, making it an ideal base for driving the company’s European operations.
The MiCA regulations, which became fully effective at the end of 2024, have significantly changed the European crypto landscape. Initially implemented mid-year for stablecoins, the framework now covers a broader range of crypto transactions. Mark Jennings, Gemini’s Head of Europe, praised MiCA as a critical development for the European crypto sector, highlighting the company’s commitment to regulatory compliance and innovation. Jennings expressed hopes that Malta’s regulatory model could serve as a global standard for crypto governance.
Gemini’s European expansion is strengthened by its recent registration as a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) in France. This marks a significant milestone in its European growth strategy. French users can now create accounts and trade or store over 70 digital assets through the exchange’s website or mobile app.
With Euros and British pounds funding options, Gemini has enabled local payment methods for French customers, including debit cards, bank transfers, and Apple Pay. The exchange introduced advanced trading tools like the ActiveTrader™ platform and OTC trading services for institutional clients. Additionally, Gemini is expanding in Asia, having obtained a license from Singapore’s regulators to offer cross-border money transfer and digital payment token services, demonstrating its commitment to high regulatory standards in the region.
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