US-based cryptocurrency exchange Gemini has launched a local entity in Australia, signaling a strategic effort to expand its operations across the Asia-Pacific region.
According to the Australian Independent Reserve Cryptocurrency Index, cryptocurrency adoption in Australia rose to 31% in early 2025, up from 28% the previous year.
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Strategic Entry into the Australian Market
Gemini’s establishment of Gemini Intergalactic Australia Pty Ltd represents a strategic step in its global expansion. By forming a local entity, Gemini can offer services directly in Australia, enhancing operational efficiency and regulatory compliance, and providing a tailored experience for users in the region.
Integration with local payment systems, such as the New Payments Platform (NPP) and PayID, allows for faster deposits and withdrawals, essential in a market where retail adoption is rising. Saad Ahmed, Gemini’s Head of APAC, emphasized that the company is committed to building a platform optimized for Australian users, providing localized support, and fostering trust with the local community.
The decision to launch in Australia comes amid increasing consumer interest in cryptocurrency. According to the Australian Independent Reserve Cryptocurrency Index released in February 2025, adoption rose to 31% of the population, up from 28% in 2024. This growth reflects wider acceptance of digital assets, including Bitcoin and Ethereum, by retail and small institutional investors.
Gemini aims to provide a localized platform that meets regulatory requirements and the growing demand for digital asset services in the country. Saad Ahmed, Gemini’s Head of APAC, noted that establishing Gemini Intergalactic Australia Pty Ltd enables the company to better engage with Australian users and respond to unique market dynamics, including local payment preferences and growing retail interest.
“We believe that establishing a local entity in Australia allows us to comply with regulatory requirements while offering a platform tailored to the needs of Australian users.”
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Regulatory Compliance and Market Readiness
Australia’s regulatory landscape for cryptocurrency exchanges has been evolving rapidly, with new frameworks extending financial oversight to digital asset platforms. Exchanges operating in Australia must register with the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) and comply with anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing obligations.
Gemini’s local entity creation allows it to meet these requirements directly, enhancing credibility with retail and potential institutional investors. The evolving legal framework also signals to global exchanges that local incorporation is increasingly essential for market participation. Other major US exchanges, such as Coinbase and OKX, have been actively targeting Australia’s superannuation funds to tap into long-term institutional investments.
However, Gemini focuses on retail investors at the initial phase, providing compliant access to cryptocurrency trading and local payment processing. This approach allows the company to establish trust and credibility while monitoring regulatory developments, positioning it to expand services into institutional markets once the environment stabilizes.
Positioning for Future Growth
Gemini’s local infrastructure establishes a foundation for future expansion into institutional offerings. As local regulatory clarity improves and demand grows, the company could introduce products such as crypto staking, credit card services, or custodial solutions, similar to services available in other regions.
The broader strategic rationale also reflects a trend among global exchanges to establish local entities in key markets. This allows them to respond more effectively to regional market conditions, build stronger customer relationships, and comply with evolving regulations.
