Crypto exchange Gemini has chosen Malta as its hub for ensuring compliance with the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation.
The choice is driven by the Maltese government’s encouragement of fintech innovation and the country’s pro-crypto ecosystem.
In December 2024, Gemini received a virtual financial assets license from the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA).
Representatives of the platform recalled that in Gemini’s 2024 market survey, 39% of crypto holders cited regulatory uncertainty as a hurdle to market entry. The implementation of MiCA will help legitimize digital assets across the EU.
In the coming months, Gemini plans to roll out new features for both retail and institutional clients, strengthen its presence in the region, and enhance the user experience in 32 European countries (in the EEA and the UK).
Earlier, Kaiko found that by November 2024, MiCA-compliant stablecoins—such as EURC, EURCV (from Societe Generale), and EURI (from Banking Circle)—had captured a record 91% share of the euro-denominated stablecoin market.
Context
- JPMorgan analysts believe that the legislation, which took effect on December 30, 2024, has laid the groundwork for the growth of euro-pegged stablecoins.