Am 25. Januar 2025, Zwillinge, a leading cryptocurrency exchange and custodian founded by the twin brothers Tyler and Cameron Winklevoss, announced that it would establish its European headquarters in Malta rather than Ireland. This move reinforces Malta’s position as a premier hub for digital assets. Gemini, known for its strong regulatory compliance and secure digital asset services, was valued at approximately $7.1 billion after a $400 million investment in November 2021. The company’s estimated annual revenue is around $274.8 million. The decision to relocate its European base to Malta reflects confidence in the country’s fintech sector and regulatory framework.
Maltas frühe Annahme von Krypto-Vorschriften
Malta was ahead of the curve when it came to crypto. Back in 2018, it rolled out the Virtual Financial Assets Act—one of the first clear regulatory frameworks for digital assets in Europe. That early move gave crypto firms something they crave: stability and transparency.
Meanwhile, Ireland took a more hesitant approach. And that uncertainty has started to show. Companies like Gemini have already packed their bags, choosing to relocate their European HQs to places like Malta, where the rules are clear and the environment is actively supportive.
Malta’s financial watchdog, the MFSA, now has years of hands-on experience overseeing crypto operations—giving firms confidence they’re setting up shop in a place that knows what it’s doing. For fintech players looking to grow without second-guessing the law, Malta is fast becoming the obvious choice.
The new Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) builds on Malta’s early lead, laying down a single, EU-wide rulebook for crypto. For firms that are registered, it means one set of standards and access to the entire European Economic Area—no more regulatory patchwork.
Vertrauen der Industrie in den maltesischen Rechtsrahmen
As Mark Jennings, Gemini’s European head, put it: “MiCA is a much-needed regulatory development for the European crypto community.” That’s why Gemini chose Malta as its MiCA hub—because the country strikes the right balance between regulatory standards and innovation. Jennings added that they hope Malta’s model can help shape global crypto regulation.
Gemini isn’t alone. Big names like Bybit, Kraken, Uphold, Gate.io, and eToro have all followed suit, setting up their European operations in Malta under MiCA’s unified framework. OKX did the same back in July 2024.
It’s not just about low tax or good weather—it’s Malta’s depth of regulatory experience, particularly through the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), that sets it apart. That kind of credibility is invaluable in a sector where trust and compliance matter more than ever.
Die Rolle von Finance Malta bei der globalen Expansion
Industry leaders see Gemini’s decision as more than just a smart business move—it’s a strong vote of confidence in Malta’s financial ecosystem. Graziella Grech, COO of FinanceMalta, called it a clear endorsement of the country’s advanced infrastructure and forward-thinking approach to crypto regulation.
With a fast-growing tech sector and some of the earliest crypto legislation in Europe, Malta continues to pull in major players. FinanceMalta itself plays a key role in this, promoting the jurisdiction abroad and keeping international interest alive.
“A lot of important work is being done,” Grech noted, “and it underscores our commitment to strengthening Malta’s global presence and making it an attractive proposition for new investors and operators alike.”
Blick in die Zukunft: Maltas globale Krypto-Präsenz
In 2025, FinanceMalta is taking Malta’s message global, with plans to attend 35 top-tier international events—including Money 20/20 in Amsterdam, the ESG Europe Summit in Vienna, and the Guildhall in London. Backed by clear legislation and a thriving fintech scene, Malta is positioning itself as the go-to destination for crypto and digital asset firms looking for stability and growth.
Expatax keeps expats in the loop with regular updates on Malta’s crypto landscape—covering key regulatory shifts, new opportunities, and everything you need to stay ahead in the sector.
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Märkte für Krypto-Assets Regulierung
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