The cryptocurrency landscape continues to evolve rapidly, and Gemini, one of the leading regulated crypto exchanges, is making strategic moves to strengthen its foothold in Europe’s institutional market. By introducing USD payment support for European clients, Gemini is streamlining access to crypto trading and positioning itself as a preferred platform for professional investors across the region.
This enhancement allows institutions to deposit, withdraw, and trade over 80 USD-based pairs directly on the Gemini platform, eliminating the need for cumbersome currency conversions and reducing transaction friction. The development marks a significant step in Gemini’s ongoing mission to provide seamless, compliant, and efficient financial infrastructure for institutional participants in the digital asset ecosystem.
Enhanced USD Access for European Institutions
Gemini has partnered with Bank Frick, a licensed bank based in Liechtenstein, to roll out a dedicated USD payment rail for institutional clients in the UK, EU, and Switzerland. This collaboration enables direct USD settlements, giving institutions greater flexibility and control over their capital flows.
👉 Discover how institutional traders are leveraging USD rails for faster crypto access.
Mark Jennings, Head of Gemini Europe, emphasized the strategic importance of this launch:
“We plan to extend USD rail support to EU institutional customers in the coming weeks.”
Institutions based in Gibraltar, Jersey, Guernsey, and the Isle of Man will also gain access to these new capabilities. Furthermore, the service is expected to expand to select European Economic Area (EEA) countries in the near future.
One of the most impactful benefits is that eligible users can now fund their accounts in USD and trade directly into cryptocurrencies, bypassing the traditional requirement to convert funds into GBP or EUR first. This not only reduces costs but also minimizes settlement delays—critical factors for high-volume and time-sensitive institutional trades.
Powered by Instant Settlement Technology
To ensure fast and reliable fiat onboarding, Gemini leverages Xpulse, Bank Frick’s instant transfer product. Xpulse enables 24/7 real-time USD transfers for all Bank Frick clients, including institutional investors using Gemini’s services. This round-the-clock availability aligns perfectly with the global nature of cryptocurrency markets, where opportunities can emerge at any time.
The integration of instant settlement infrastructure underscores Gemini’s commitment to building a robust, enterprise-grade trading environment. As institutional interest in digital assets grows—driven by macroeconomic trends, diversification strategies, and growing regulatory clarity—platforms that offer speed, compliance, and reliability are becoming increasingly essential.
Regulatory Edge Through EMI Licensing
Unlike many crypto platforms that rely on third-party banking partners to offer fiat services, Gemini operates with its own Electronic Money Institution (EMI) license. This regulatory advantage allows the company to manage its own payment solutions and deliver greater control over user experience and compliance.
Having an EMI license means Gemini can issue e-money, facilitate payments, and hold client funds under strict regulatory oversight—enhancing trust and transparency for institutional clients who prioritize security and auditability.
This self-reliant model sets Gemini apart from competitors who may face operational bottlenecks due to dependency on external financial institutions. It also reflects the exchange’s long-term vision of becoming a fully integrated digital asset financial platform.
Strategic Growth Amid IPO Speculation
Recent reports suggest that Gemini has filed a confidential draft registration statement with U.S. regulators ahead of a potential initial public offering (IPO). The exchange is reportedly working with major financial institutions, including Goldman Sachs Group Inc. and Citigroup Inc., on its public listing plans.
While Gemini has been exploring public market options since at least 2021—including discussions around a merger with the now-defunct Digital Currency Group—the latest developments indicate renewed momentum toward going public.
Gemini’s founders, Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, have remained active in shaping the industry's regulatory and policy landscape. They were among approximately 30 crypto executives invited to a recent White House digital assets summit, highlighting their influence and the growing recognition of crypto as a legitimate asset class.
👉 See how major exchanges are preparing for public listings in 2025.
SEC Closes Investigation Without Enforcement Action
In a significant development for the company’s legal standing, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) concluded its investigation into Gemini without recommending enforcement action. Cameron Winklevoss confirmed the news on February 26 via a public notice shared from the SEC.
The investigation originally stemmed from allegations in January 2023, when the SEC claimed that Gemini Earn—a now-suspended yield-generating product—and Genesis Global Capital had offered unregistered securities through their lending program.
While the closure of the probe brings regulatory relief, the SEC clarified that the decision does not constitute immunity or a formal exoneration. The agency reserved the right to take future action if new evidence emerges.
Cameron Winklevoss acknowledged the outcome but expressed skepticism:
“Closing the investigation brings little comfort given the damage done by the agency—to Gemini and to the broader crypto industry.”
Despite these challenges, Gemini remains focused on rebuilding trust and expanding its compliant product offerings globally.
Core Keywords Integration
Throughout this evolution, key themes have emerged that reflect both market demand and strategic priorities:
- Institutional crypto trading
- USD payment rails
- EMI licensing
- Gemini Europe expansion
- Regulated crypto exchange
- IPO preparation
- Fiat-to-crypto onboarding
- Bank Frick partnership
These keywords naturally align with search intent from financial professionals, investors, and compliance officers seeking reliable information on regulated crypto platforms in Europe.
👉 Explore regulated crypto platforms with advanced institutional tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a USD payment rail in crypto?
A: A USD payment rail refers to a banking infrastructure that enables fast and secure transfers of U.S. dollars between financial institutions and crypto platforms. It allows users to deposit, withdraw, and trade using USD directly, avoiding unnecessary currency conversions.
Q: Which countries currently benefit from Gemini’s USD support?
A: As of now, institutional clients in the UK, EU, Switzerland, Gibraltar, Jersey, Guernsey, and the Isle of Man have access. Expansion to additional EEA countries is expected soon.
Q: How does EMI licensing benefit Gemini users?
A: EMI licensing allows Gemini to operate its own payment systems under European financial regulations. This increases operational autonomy, improves transaction efficiency, and enhances regulatory compliance—key advantages for institutional investors.
Q: Is Gemini planning an IPO?
A: While no official announcement has been made, credible reports indicate that Gemini has filed a confidential draft registration with U.S. authorities and is working with major Wall Street banks on a potential IPO.
Q: Why did the SEC close its investigation into Gemini?
A: Based on available information, the SEC decided not to pursue enforcement action related to the Gemini Earn product. However, it did not issue a formal clearance, leaving room for future scrutiny.
Q: Can European institutions trade directly from USD to crypto on Gemini?
A: Yes—thanks to the new USD rails, eligible institutions can now fund their accounts in USD and trade directly into cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum without converting to EUR or GBP first.
With enhanced fiat integration, regulatory compliance, and strategic growth initiatives underway, Gemini is reinforcing its position as a leading destination for institutional crypto trading in Europe—paving the way for broader adoption in 2025 and beyond.