Gemini, the crypto exchange founded by Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, has expanded its services in the European Economic Area (EEA).
Users can now access ETH staking and SOL staking directly on the platform.
In addition, Gemini introduced trading for derivatives through perpetual contracts denominated in Circle’s USDC ($0.9997). These products allow investors to trade crypto positions without an expiry date.
The launch followed key regulatory approvals. In May 2024, Gemini secured authorization under the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID II).
In August 2024, the exchange received approval under the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) in Malta.
These frameworks enable Gemini to operate staking and derivatives trading legally in the EU.
Mark Jennings, Gemini’s head of Europe, said:
“Our goal is to be one of the major exchanges in Europe, and now that we have a full suite of products including spot exchange, staking, and perpetuals in the EU from a single interface, we believe that we’re a serious contender.”
Derivatives Volumes Rise as Spot Trading Declines
The new derivatives trading options in the EU arrive as spot trading volumes continue to fall.
Despite Bitcoin’s price rise in 2025, global spot volumes dropped 32% in the first two quarters. The total amounted to $3.6 trillion in Q2, according to TokenInsight.
In contrast, crypto derivatives volumes grew strongly. They reached $20.2 trillion in the same period.
Jennings noted: “The global derivatives market has exploded in recent months,” pointing to estimates that suggest the market could reach $23 trillion by the end of 2025.
Spot trading has slowed as exchange-traded funds (ETFs) attracted more investor attention.
At the same time, derivatives remain in demand for structured exposure and risk management.
ETH Staking and SOL Staking Grow Under MiCA Rules
The expansion of ETH staking and SOL staking in Europe comes under the MiCA framework, which took full effect in late 2024. While derivatives fall under MiFID II, staking is indirectly regulated by MiCA.
According to a CoinLaw study in June 2025, EU staking participation increased by 39% in 2025. Outside the EU, staking growth reached 22%.
Within the EU, Ethereum staking deposits surged 28% year over year, totaling $90 billion in staked ETH.
Jennings said:
“Staking is becoming increasingly popular in Europe.”
He pointed to CoinLaw data, noting that Gemini Staking is available for both retail and institutional investors.
He added that the company expects strong participation from professional investors seeking to use ETH staking and SOL staking for yield within a single exchange.
Gemini Prepares for U.S. IPO After EU Expansion
The rollout of ETH staking, SOL staking, and derivatives trading in the EU came days after Gemini filed a Form S-1 with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
The filing showed plans to sell 16.67 million shares priced between $17 and $19. The exchange could raise as much as $317 million through the initial public offering.
The IPO filing marks a significant step for Gemini while the exchange strengthens its footprint in the EU with staking and derivatives products under MiCA and MiFID II compliance.
Disclosure:This article does not contain investment advice or recommendations. Every investment and trading move involves risk, and readers should conduct their own research when making a decision.
Kriptoworld.com accepts no liability for any errors in the articles or for any financial loss resulting from incorrect information.
Tatevik Avetisyan is an editor at Kriptoworld who covers emerging crypto trends, blockchain innovation, and altcoin developments. She is passionate about breaking down complex stories for a global audience and making digital finance more accessible.
📅 Published: August 4, 2025 • 🔄 Last updated: August 4, 2025
