Key Takeaway: Gemini has officially launched its Australian operations through AUSTRAC registration, enabling legal cryptocurrency services and integration with local banking systems. James Logan has been appointed to lead Australian operations. This move strengthens Gemini’s Asia-Pacific expansion following its IPO, Nasdaq partnership, and SEC settlement, as the U.S. crypto exchange targets Australia’s 22% adoption rate with a strong focus on regulatory compliance.
Exchange Registers with AUSTRAC, Appoints Local Leadership
Cryptocurrency exchange Gemini has officially launched its Australian operations through a locally registered entity, marking a significant milestone in the company’s strategic Asia-Pacific expansion. The New York-based platform established Gemini Intergalactic Australia Pty Ltd, now registered with the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) as a digital currency provider.
The registration enables Gemini to offer cryptocurrency exchange services legally in Australia and integrate with local payment systems. “With Australia’s rapidly growing digital asset market, Gemini is doubling down on our Asia-Pacific growth strategy,” said Saad Ahmed, head of APAC at Gemini.
James Logan has been appointed Head of Australia to lead local operations, bringing experience from previous roles as Country Manager for Luno Australia and leadership positions at Bitget. “Australians are increasingly turning to trusted platforms to manage their digital assets, and I’m thrilled to lead Gemini’s efforts here,” Logan stated.
Targeting High Adoption Market
Australia represents an attractive market opportunity, with cryptocurrency adoption rates reaching 22% according to Gemini’s Global State of Crypto Report 2025, matching levels seen in the United States. The Australian Independent Reserve Cryptocurrency Index indicates even higher engagement, with 31% of the population involved with digital assets as of early 2025.
The establishment of a local entity allows Gemini to access Australian banking infrastructure and offer seamless AUD deposits and withdrawals through the New Payments Platform and PayID systems. This addresses a key challenge for Australian crypto users who have historically faced banking restrictions on cryptocurrency transactions.
Recent Corporate Developments Fuel Expansion
Gemini’s Australian launch follows several major corporate milestones that have strengthened the company’s position for international expansion. In September 2025, the exchange completed a successful $425 million initial public offering on Nasdaq, valuing the company at $4.4 billion.
The Winklevoss-founded exchange also secured a $50 million strategic investment from Nasdaq, creating a partnership that provides stock exchange clients access to Gemini’s custody and staking services. The collaboration enables Gemini’s institutional clients to utilize Nasdaq’s Calypso platform for collateral management.
Settlement Clears Regulatory Uncertainty
A preliminary settlement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission regarding Gemini’s Earn program has resolved a three-year legal dispute that created operational uncertainty. The regulatory clarity has paved the way for expanded international operations under improved conditions for cryptocurrency businesses.
The resolution comes amid a more favorable regulatory environment for digital assets under the current administration, enabling platforms like Gemini to pursue aggressive growth strategies.
Building on Established International Presence
The Australian expansion represents the latest phase in Gemini’s methodical international growth strategy launched in 2016. The exchange first expanded beyond U.S. borders with a Canadian launch in June 2016, followed by entries into Hong Kong and Singapore.
Gemini established significant Asia-Pacific infrastructure in 2023 by designating Singapore as its regional headquarters and building a leadership team of over 100 employees. The company also announced plans for an engineering hub in India as part of its regional expansion.
The UK market entry in 2020, secured through a Financial Conduct Authority electronic money license, demonstrated Gemini’s commitment to regulatory compliance over rapid market penetration. This approach has distinguished the exchange from competitors who have faced regulatory challenges in various jurisdictions.
Cautious Approach to Evolving Regulations
While establishing operations in Australia, Gemini has adopted a measured stance toward pending regulatory changes. The Albanese government has proposed legislation requiring cryptocurrency exchanges to obtain Australian Financial Services Licenses, though implementation timelines remain unclear.
“There’s going to be some back and forth between the industry and the government for a while,” Ahmed noted, indicating Gemini’s preference to monitor regulatory developments rather than actively lobby for specific outcomes. The company expressed confidence in its ability to adapt to whatever regulatory framework emerges.
Competitive Landscape and Market Position
The Australian launch positions Gemini to compete with established platforms including Coinbase, Kraken, and local exchanges like Swyftx and CoinSpot. Gemini’s competitive advantage centers on institutional-grade security protocols and regulatory compliance, building on its reputation among both retail and institutional investors.
Integration with local banking systems provides operational benefits that could differentiate Gemini from competitors lacking established Australian financial relationships. With global cryptocurrency trading volume reaching $9.72 trillion in August 2025 and institutional adoption accelerating, the Australian market represents significant growth potential.
The expansion reflects Gemini’s broader strategy to establish presence in mature digital asset markets across the Asia-Pacific region, where regulatory clarity and high adoption rates create favorable conditions for sustainable growth.
Source: Reuters and various cryptocurrency industry publications.
