Gemini Exchange Secures MiCA License for European Market Expansion

Gemini, owned by Tyler and Cameron Winklevoss, has received a Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) license from the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), enabling it to operate across the European Economic Area (EEA).

Key Developments

  • The MiCA license allows Gemini to offer services in all 30 EEA countries.
  • Mark Jennings, Head of Gemini Europe, considers this a significant step in expanding regulated services.
  • This follows another approval for an Investment Firm license under MiFID II obtained in May.
  • Gemini recently launched tokenized stocks, aiming to expand its product offerings for retail and institutional clients.

Regulatory Concerns

  • There are concerns about the speed of MiCA license approvals, particularly in Malta.
  • Some regulators fear inadequate due diligence may lead to risks such as fraud and market instability.
  • Recent licenses have been issued to other firms like CoinShares and Coinbase, raising additional scrutiny on the approval process.