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- Gemini now offers ETH & SOL staking plus USDC perpetuals across the EEA.
- EU staking activity surged 39% in 2025, boosted by MiCA.
- Derivatives trading dwarfs spot volumes, hitting $20.2 trillion in Q2.
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Gemini, the crypto exchange founded by Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, is accelerating its European expansion with the launch of staking and derivatives products. The move follows recent regulatory approvals under the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) in Malta and the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID II).
Gemini Offers Staking and Perpetual Contracts in the EU
Starting this week, Gemini users across the European Economic Area (EEA) can stake Ethereum (ETH) and Solana (SOL) directly on the platform. In addition, the exchange now offers perpetual futures contracts denominated in Circle’s USDC stablecoin. This rollout creates a one-stop interface for trading, staking, and derivatives in Europe.
“Our goal is to be one of the major exchanges in Europe, and with a full suite of products from spot exchange to derivatives, we’re now a serious contender,” said Mark Jennings, Gemini’s head of Europe.
Derivatives Growth Outpaces Spot Trading
The expansion comes as crypto derivatives increasingly dominate trading volumes. While Bitcoin’s price has climbed in 2025, global spot trading volumes dropped 32% in the first half of the year, reaching $3.6 trillion in Q2, according to TokenInsight. By contrast, derivatives activity surged to $20.2 trillion over the same period. Jennings expects the derivatives market to reach $23 trillion by year’s end, noting growing demand for risk-managed financial instruments.
Staking Surge Driven by MiCA Framework
Alongside derivatives, staking is rapidly gaining traction in the EU. CoinLaw data shows institutional staking participation rose 39% in 2025, outpacing non-EU growth. Ethereum staking deposits in Europe surged 28% year-over-year, reaching $90 billion. Jennings emphasized that Gemini’s staking service will appeal to both institutions and professional retail investors seeking passive income opportunities.
Also Read: Gemini Files for Nasdaq IPO as Winklevoss Twins Retain Control Despite Heavy Losses
Gemini’s European launch comes just days after filing for a U.S. IPO, aiming to raise up to $317 million. The dual focus on global expansion and capital markets signals the Winklevoss-led exchange’s intent to position itself as a top-tier player in the next phase of crypto adoption.
By combining staking and derivatives under Europe’s new regulatory frameworks, Gemini is positioning itself at the forefront of the continent’s evolving crypto landscape. With growing demand for sophisticated products and an IPO on the horizon, the exchange is betting on Europe as a key driver of its next growth chapter.
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Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of Chain Affairs. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. Chain Affairs is not responsible for any financial losses
I’m a crypto enthusiast with a background in finance. I’m fascinated by the potential of crypto to disrupt traditional financial systems. I’m always on the lookout for new and innovative projects in the space. I believe that crypto has the potential to create a more equitable and inclusive financial system.
