Gemini Expands Its Footprint in Europe
Crypto exchange Gemini, founded by Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, has announced the launch of new staking and derivatives products in the European Economic Area (EEA).
European users can now:
- Stake Ether (ETH) and Solana (SOL) directly on Gemini.
- Trade perpetual contracts denominated in Circle’s USDC stablecoin.
The expansion follows Gemini securing Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) approval in Malta (August 2025) and MiFID II authorization earlier in May.
“Our goal is to be one of the major exchanges in Europe… with spot, staking, and perpetuals all under one interface, we’re now a serious contender,” said Mark Jennings, Gemini’s head of Europe.
Derivatives Take the Lead as Spot Trading Declines
Despite Bitcoin (BTC) hitting new highs in 2025, spot trading volumes fell 32% in the first half of the year, totaling just $3.6 trillion in Q2, according to TokenInsight.
By comparison, crypto derivatives surged to $20.2 trillion in trading volume.
“The global derivatives market has exploded… expected to hit $23 trillion by the end of 2025,” Jennings noted.
This trend highlights the growing demand for risk-managed financial instruments that allow traders to gain long or short exposure beyond traditional spot markets.
Ethereum Staking Accelerates in the EU
Staking has been booming in Europe since MiCA came into full force in late 2024.
- EU staking participation surged 39% in 2025, compared to 22% growth outside the EU, per CoinLaw research.
- Ethereum staking deposits in Europe climbed 28% YoY, reaching a massive $90 billion in locked ETH.
Gemini expects its staking service to attract professional retail investors and institutions seeking passive yield within a regulated framework.
“Staking is increasingly popular in Europe,” Jennings said. “We believe Gemini Staking will appeal to sophisticated investors who want a single, secure platform.”
Gemini Eyes IPO in the US
The European launch comes just days after Gemini officially filed its Form S-1 with the SEC for a US IPO.
- Gemini plans to sell 16.67 million shares priced between $17–$19, aiming to raise up to $317 million.
- This IPO positions Gemini among the few major exchanges pursuing both global expansion and public market listing simultaneously.
KXZ Store – A Smarter Way to Access Crypto
For European investors looking to expand their crypto exposure, tools like the KXZ Binance Gift Card, offer a flexible and secure way to buy USDT and USDC. Whether for staking on Gemini, trading perpetuals, or holding stablecoins, KXZ makes it simple to onboard into the crypto ecosystem with ease.