Gemini, the cryptocurrency exchange founded by Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, has received regulatory approval to expand crypto derivatives trading across Europe. The exchange secured a Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II (MiFID II) license from the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), allowing it to offer crypto derivatives in the European Union, as announced on May 9. Mark Jennings, Gemini’s head of Europe, stated, “Once we commence business activities, we will be able to offer regulated derivatives throughout the EU and EEA [European Economic Area] under MiFID II.” This license marks a significant milestone in Gemini’s European expansion, bringing it closer to offering derivatives to both retail and institutional users. Gemini’s upcoming derivatives offering in the EU and EEA will include perpetual futures and other derivatives, catering to advanced users. Gemini’s Maltese entity, Gemini Intergalactic EU Artemis, was issued a license on May 8. This latest license builds on the regulatory progress of the US-based exchange in Europe, following its decision to make Malta its hub for compliance with the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) framework. Although Gemini has not yet obtained full MiCA licensing, the move reinforces its commitment to regulatory compliance in Europe. The upcoming crypto derivatives launch in Europe by Gemini reflects a broader trend in the global crypto industry towards derivatives. Coinbase, the largest crypto exchange in the US, recently announced the $2.9 billion acquisition of Deribit, a major crypto derivatives platform. Similarly, Kraken confirmed plans to acquire NinjaTrader to offer futures trading, signaling the growing importance of derivatives in the crypto market. These developments underscore the increasing interest and investment in crypto derivatives, shaping the future of the digital asset landscape.