From day one, Gemini has prioritized the security of our customers’ assets. We never have and never will compromise on that point. As the crypto ecosystem emerges from infancy into adolescence we are more confident than ever that *__asking for permission, not for forgiveness__* will continue to be the central pillar of how we run our business. 

It has been a tough couple of days for our industry. Our hearts go out to all those impacted by recent events at FTX. We are all working together to build a brighter future and moments like these are painful.

For the avoidance of doubt, __Gemini has no exposure to FTT tokens or Alameda and no material exposure to FTX__.

### Gemini is a Full-Reserve Exchange and Custodian

Gemini is a full-reserve exchange and custodian. This means that __all customer funds held on Gemini are held 1:1 and available for withdrawal at any time.__ 

Gemini holds customer fiat currency in accounts that are segregated from our business, operating, and reserve bank accounts established specifically for the benefit of Gemini customers. __We do not do anything with your fiat funds unless explicitly authorized and directed to do so by you.__

Gemini holds customer digital assets in accounts that are segregated from our assets. __We do not do anything with your digital assets unless explicitly authorized and directed to do so by you.__

In addition to being a full-reserve platform, Gemini Trust Company, LLC is a fiduciary and qualified custodian under New York Banking Law and is licensed by the New York State Department of Financial Services (NYDFS). NYDFS imposes certain excess capital requirements and compliance standards for all assets held on Gemini. __At any given time, Gemini is required to hold capital in excess of customer deposits and must report any material changes in this capital to its regulator.__

### Gemini is Highly Regulated

Since its inception eight years ago, Gemini has worked with regulatory stakeholders and lawmakers to help shape thoughtful regulation that fosters both consumer protection and innovation. We will continue to do this work. We have spent considerable time applying for and becoming licensed and regulated in various jurisdictions across the world. This is not the easier path (it is expensive and time consuming) but we believe it is the right one.

Gemini holds many licenses globally, including a New York trust license, state money transmitter licenses (or the statutory equivalent), an E-Money License from the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK, an E-Money License from the Central Bank of Ireland, and more.

Related to our licenses, Gemini must undergo annual audits of our financial statements and is subject to bank examinations conducted by NYDFS. We are also [SOC 1 and SOC 2 compliant](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-completes-soc-1-type-2-and-soc-2-type-2-examinations-leading-crypto).

Ten years ago, we bought our first bitcoin on Mt. Gox. Those Wild West days informed us with regard to what needed to change. We built Gemini to be this change. We look forward to working with everyone in our industry to continue to build trust in this new magical frontier and unlock its ultimate promise.

Onward and Upward.

Cameron and Tyler

Gemini Is Built on Trust, Safety, and Compliance: Ask For Permission, Not For Forgiveness

Since the 1980s, institutional investors have relied on traditional prime brokerage services to navigate their relationships with financial services providers for entry into particular asset classes. 

Today, as Bitcoin and crypto top headlines and are discussed in boardrooms, more traditional financial institutions are introducing digital asset services to their clients and are thus looking for a reliable crypto-native prime broker to guide them. 

In this blog, we discuss the intricacies of a full-service crypto prime offering and the important characteristics to consider when choosing a crypto prime broker.

### What does a full-service crypto prime offering look like? 

In today’s crypto ecosystem, most institutions rely on a multitude of crypto service providers to replicate the same level of end-to-end prime services they are accustomed to in traditional finance, which include custody, trade execution, settlement, financing, etc. This piecemeal approach to prime brokerage services can create significant overhead, time delays, and more importantly, exposes institutions to operational and security risks. 

At Gemini, we believe that a true full-service digital assets prime brokerage should offer in-house custody, financing, trading, and settlement services paired with dedicated client service partners all within the ecosystem of a trusted and regulated provider. In a true full-service digital assets prime brokerage model, clients interact with only one trusted provider, limiting their exposure. 

### Top five characteristics to consider when choosing a crypto prime broker 

When it comes to end-to-end full-service prime brokerages, not all providers have the same level of crypto-native market expertise and breadth of services. Therefore, institutional investors need to consider these five points when selecting a prime broker: 

1. __Stability and creditworthiness of the provider:__ It is imperative to work with a seasoned crypto-native provider to ensure stability and creditworthiness. Questions that can shed a light include:  How long has the provider been in existence and/or involved in the digital assets space? How is the institution funded? What are the chances of default? Where are my assets stored and how are they being used by my prime broker?
2. __Security and compliance frameworks:__ Security is central to building trust and, importantly, to ensuring client funds remain protected. There are various security standards required across jurisdictions, and so an important first question to ask is: Is the provider subject to security requirements mandated by global regulatory authorities? You can also learn more about a provider’s security and compliance standards by asking questions like: Do they maintain annual security penetration testings performed by independent third party providers? Did they successfully complete their SOC 1 Type 2, SOC 2 Type 2 examinations? 
3. __Platform capabilities:__ With full-service crypto prime brokerages few and far between, one of the most important features to consider is the ability for the provider to offer access to a full-suite end-to-end platform. Connectivity between various venues, including decentralized and centralized financial institutions, as well as with fiat onramps should also be taken into account. As mentioned above, there are a variety of risks associated with a fractured approach to prime services, and minimizing the need to onboard a multitude of providers should be top of mind.
4. __Ease of access and depth of liquidity:__ Not every trading desk will have optimal access to deep liquidity pools. Providing the best execution requires a provider to have extensive relationships with diverse partners and access to various products. 
5. __High-touch client service model:__ In the complex world of digital assets, ensuring that your prime brokerage provider offers the necessary guidance and high-touch client service is paramount to long-term success. Whether helping to navigate the dynamic ecosystem landscape or providing product support, effective and accessible high-touch client service can play an important role in a successful prime brokerage relationship. 

As digital assets increasingly become part of the global financial fabric, we are confident that the need for full-service crypto prime brokerages will continue to rise. At Gemini, we seek to provide seamless prime brokerage services to all types of institutions seeking exposure to crypto. Having built a crypto-native and client-focused crypto prime brokerage in Gemini Prime, [__we invite you to learn more about our institutional solutions here__](https://www.gemini.com/institutions). 

Watch this space as we continue the conversation around crypto prime brokerages in the coming weeks and outline why we believe crypto-native prime brokers like Gemini Prime are the ideal venues for institutions seeking secure, regulated, and transparent access to crypto. 

Onward and Upward!

Clark Read, Head of Gemini Prime  
John Burnett, VP of Gemini Prime

Five Points to Consider When Choosing a Crypto Prime Broker

Customers and institutions in Ireland can now open a Gemini account to deposit, trade, and custody around 100 cryptocurrencies. 

Irish customers can access the Gemini website or mobile app to securely [buy cryptocurrencies](https://www.gemini.com/prices) with Euros (EUR) and Pound Sterling (GBP) with a debit card, bank transfer, or using Apple Pay or Google Pay.

Financial institutions, fintechs, and other corporations in Ireland now have access to [Gemini’s institutional-grade, crypto-native platform](https://www.gemini.com/institutions) through which they can access custody, clearing, trade execution, price discovery, and portfolio management services, all in one place. 

[ActiveTrader](https://www.gemini.com/activetrader), a high-performance crypto trading platform that delivers professional-level experience, is available for use by more advanced traders.

### A Springboard for European Expansion

Going live in Ireland is the latest step in our European growth strategy. This expansion is built on proactive and positive engagement with regulators and policymakers to obtain robust levels of licensing and approvals.

Ireland is an internationally recognised finance and technology hub that serves as a gateway to the wider European fintech market. We are excited to service the strong demand for accessible and secure crypto services among the highly educated and tech literate consumer base here.

Onward and Upward,

Gillian Lynch  
Head of Ireland and Europe

Gemini Launches Services to Customers and Institutions in Ireland, Bolstering European Expansion

Today, we are excited to announce a partnership with Betterment, the [largest independent digital investment advisor in the U.S.](https://www.betterment.com/legal/company-description), to begin offering crypto investment portfolios to customers across its retail and Betterment for Advisors offerings. 

Betterment’s forthcoming crypto offering will enable customers to invest in curated crypto portfolios constructed from digital assets listed on the Gemini Exchange, and we will act as Betterment’s crypto custodian. By integrating with Gemini, Betterment customers will be able to gain exposure to the crypto asset class to further diversify their long term investment portfolios on a platform that they already know and trust.

Starting next month, Betterment customers will have access to expert-built crypto portfolios, assembled by Betterment, through their accounts, and Betterment for Advisors’s partners will have the ability to offer crypto to their clients. Betterment has over 730,000 customers across all of its business lines and offerings.

"We are delighted to expand our institutional partnerships through this Betterment integration," said Paget Stanco, Principal, Business Development at Gemini. "Through our suite of institutional products, we provide crypto infrastructure solutions to a growing number of asset managers, financial institutions, and platforms on a global scale. Our partnership with Betterment further cements Gemini as a leader in providing efficient access to crypto.”

Gemini’s Betterment partnership comes on the heels of a number of exciting institutional announcements. In July, we announced that our [customers in the UK can use Plaid](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-uk-customers-can-now-use-plaid-to-connect-their-bank-accounts) to seamlessly connect their bank accounts, and that we are serving as [custodian for three of Holon Global Investments’ crypto funds](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-custodies-australias-lowest-fee-bitcoin-ethereum-and-filecoin-funds).

To learn more about Gemini’s full stack of institutional crypto offerings, [we invite you to reach out to us here](https://www.gemini.com/institutions). To learn more about Betterment’s crypto offerings please visit [betterment.com/crypto](https://www.betterment.com/crypto).

Onward and Upward!

Team Gemini

*This content is for general informational purposes only and is not investment advice. Buying, selling, and trading cryptocurrency involves risks, including the risk of losing all of the invested amount. You should consult a qualified, licensed advisor before engaging in any transaction.  Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Digital assets are not legal tender and are not backed by the U.S. government. Digital assets are not subject to Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) insurance or Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC) protections.*

*Updated: October 6, 2022.*

Gemini and Betterment Partner to Bring Diversified Crypto Portfolios to Investors

We are excited to further our partnership with leading Australian fund manager Holon Global Investments, serving as the custodian partner for their unlisted retail Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Filecoin (FIL) funds. 

The [BTC](https://www.gemini.com/prices/bitcoin), [ETH](https://www.gemini.com/prices/ether), and [FIL](https://www.gemini.com/prices/filecoin) held by the funds are stored and managed by [Gemini Custody](https://www.gemini.com/custody). This latest partnership with Holon is a testament to Gemini’s commitment to increasing accessibility to crypto across the globe. 

Holon’s unlisted funds are under Gemini Fund Solutions, which offers unparalleled support from product ideation through launch. Holon uses Gemini’s crypto trade execution services and its regulated and insured custody service that removes the need for investors to manage their own crypto wallets. The funds are structured as retail managed investment schemes, increasing accessibility for investors and advisers who seek exposure to crypto. 

As the lowest fee Bitcoin, Ethereum and Filecoin funds publicly offered in Australia, the funds will offer access to some of the most well-known cryptocurrencies, with a 0.4% management fee and 0.4% capped fund expenses. The funds are long only, with no gearing and no trading.   

[We first announced our partnership with Holon in August 2021](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-to-custody-australia-based-holon-globals-filecoin-fund), with Gemini serving as the custodian and execution partner for the Holon Wholesale Filecoin Fund. Our partnership with Holon reinforces Gemini’s global reach as we navigate the Australian market alongside one of the most innovative and forward-looking asset managers in the region.

Through Gemini Custody and Gemini Fund Solutions, we offer crypto services and infrastructure to a growing number of asset managers and financial institutions globally. As a New York trust company and qualified custodian regulated by the New York State Department of Financial Services, the safety and security of our clients’ assets is our top priority.

To find out more about our full-stack of institutional crypto offerings, [we invite you to reach out to us here](https://www.gemini.com/institutions).  

Onward and Upward!

Team Gemini

Gemini Custodies Australia’s Lowest Fee Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Filecoin Funds with Holon

The crypto ecosystem is a diverse tapestry of tokens, protocols, projects, and applications. At Gemini, we believe in making crypto more accessible and easier to understand as the industry continues to develop ever more quickly. Knowledge and education are central to that effort, and today we want to highlight a mainstay in the crypto landscape: stablecoins. 

Volatility is nothing new in the crypto universe, or indeed in the financial world as a whole. Recently, however, volatility in the crypto markets has brought more attention to stablecoins, which are intended to avoid significant price swings. Simply stated, stablecoins are cryptos that aim to remain, well, stable. 

__What Are the Different Types of Stablecoins?__

Whether the purpose is to retain a peg to the price of a fiat currency, a commodity, or some other asset, stablecoins are meant to maintain a predictable value. There are four main ways stablecoin issuers do this. Stablecoin collateral structures can be [fiat-backed](https://www.gemini.com/cryptopedia/glossary#fiat-backed-stablecoin), [crypto-backed](https://www.gemini.com/cryptopedia/glossary#crypto-backed-stablecoin), [commodity-backed](https://www.gemini.com/cryptopedia/glossary#commodity-backed-stablecoin), or [algorithmic](https://www.gemini.com/cryptopedia/glossary#algorithmic-stablecoin).

Some stablecoins, like [Gemini dollar (GUSD)](https://www.gemini.com/dollar), are pegged to a fiat currency and are backed 1:1 by fiat and cash equivalents. In these cases, one stablecoin can always be redeemed for fiat, like U.S. dollars in the case of GUSD. Illustrating our deep focus on compliance and security, we believe in being transparent with how we back GUSD. All reserves backing GUSD are held in accounts with State Street Bank and Trust, Signature Bank, and Goldman Sachs Asset Management. Every month, the reserve balance is examined by BPM LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, to verify GUSD’s 1:1 backing, with BPM’s monthly attestations [readily posted](https://www.gemini.com/dollar#reports) for review on our website.

Algorithmic stablecoins, for example, maintain their peg differently. Rather than being backed 1:1 by a specific asset, their price stability is maintained by the use of algorithms and smart contracts that manage the supply of tokens in circulation. In this model, the stablecoin’s algorithm may automatically expand or contract the number of tokens in circulation in order to meet a specific price target for the stablecoin.

__Evaluating Stablecoins__

Stablecoins can act as important conduits between the legacy financial system and the burgeoning world of crypto. The immediately apparent advantage of stablecoins is their utility as a medium of exchange, effectively bridging the gap between fiat and crypto. By minimizing price volatility, stablecoins can achieve a utility wholly separate from the ownership of other, better-known cryptos like bitcoin and ether.

It’s crucial to understand the risks associated with stablecoins that are not fiat-backed. The different types of collateral structures offer varying risk profiles, and it's vital to be aware of those differences before investing in any stablecoin. 

At Gemini, we’re on a mission to unlock the next era of financial, creative, and personal freedom. We want to provide you with resources to make the ecosystem more accessible. Education is central to that effort.

We invite you to dive deeper into stablecoins with our [What Are Stablecoins?](https://www.gemini.com/cryptopedia/what-are-stablecoins-how-do-they-work) article on [Cryptopedia](https://www.gemini.com/cryptopedia/), and explore the [global stablecoin landscape here](https://www.gemini.com/cryptopedia/what-are-stablecoins-list-global-ecosystem).

Onward and Upward!

Team Gemini

There are four main stablecoin collateral structures: fiat-backed, crypto-backed, commodity-backed, or algorithmic.

Understanding Stablecoins: They’re Not All Created Equal

Today, we are pleased to announce Gemini’s support for the [Cosmos Purpose Bitcoin Access ETF (CBTC)](https://cosmosam.com.au/cbtc/), among Australia’s first spot bitcoin ETFs. Powered by Gemini’s institutional-grade security and custody infrastructure, CBTC will provide Australian investors with regulated and secure access to spot bitcoin. 

Offered by Cosmos Asset Management Pty Ltd (Cosmos AM) on the Cboe Australia stock exchange, CBTC will provide Australian investors access to the world’s largest spot bitcoin solution through a fund-of-funds structure that will hold the Canada-based Purpose Bitcoin ETF (BTCC) — the world’s first ETF to hold “physical bitcoin.” BTCC was launched by Purpose Investments Inc. in 2021 and is custodied by Gemini. The fund has an AUM of over $1.2 billion USD in crypto. 

Cosmos AM’s partnership with Gemini and Purpose Investments Inc. will provide Australian investors with exposure to a highly liquid and regulated spot bitcoin ETF product. 

We are thrilled to build our relationship with Cosmos AM, which has been a pioneer in providing Australian investors with access to crypto-related investment vehicles. In 2021, Cosmos AM, which was spun out of Nasdaq-listed Bitcoin miner Mawson Infrastructure Group Inc.,  introduced Australia’s first pure digital mining ETF, and has continued to engage Australian regulators on the topic of crypto.

Our partnership with Cosmos AM will continue to drive Gemini’s growing presence in Australia and the Asia Pacific region. 

Gemini offers crypto services and infrastructure to a growing number of asset managers and traditional financial institutions across the world through Gemini Custody, Gemini Fund Solutions, and custom integrations with registered investment advisors and FinTech platforms. As a New York trust company and qualified custodian regulated by the New York State Department of Financial Services, one of the most sophisticated financial regulators in the world, the security of our clients’ assets is our top priority.

To learn more about our full-stack of institutional crypto offerings, [we invite you to reach out to us here](https://exchange.gemini.com/register/institution).

Onward and Upward!

Team Gemini

Today, we are pleased to announce Gemini’s support for the Cosmos Purpose Bitcoin Access ETF (CBTC), among Australia’s first spot bitcoin ETFs.

Gemini To Power Spot Bitcoin ETF in Australian Market First

Gemini to Power Spot Bitcoin ETF in Australian Market First 

Today, we are thrilled to announce the launch of Bitwise Asset Management’s first crypto separately managed account (SMA) vehicle, on the Gemini BITRIA platform, using the Gemini exchange and its custodial services. The Bitwise BTC/ETH Equal Weight SMA strategy will provide investors with equal exposure to crypto’s two leading assets, bitcoin and ether. 

Customer assets invested in the Bitwise BTC/ETH Equal Weight SMA strategy will be held in Gemini’s industry-leading custody and exchange infrastructure, an institutional-grade storage solution optimized to provide maximum security and access to liquidity. As a New York limited purpose trust company and qualified custodian, Gemini is regulated by the New York State Department of Financial Services, one of the most sophisticated financial regulators in the world. The security of our clients’ assets is our top priority. 

Gemini BITRIA offers financial advisors and wealth managers access to a large swath of the crypto ecosystem and the ability to manage client portfolios seamlessly from one interface. BITRIA's Digital Asset Separately Managed Account (SMA) and Digital Turnkey Asset Management Platform (DTAMP) have been integrated into Gemini's platform, empowering managers with a host of features to help them meet the rising demand from clients for regulated and secure access to crypto.

Bitwise’s SMA strategy of equal exposure to bitcoin and ether gives investors a compelling way to participate in crypto via two widely-held assets with distinct use cases. The offering through Bitwise on the Gemini BITRIA platform  is particularly relevant for financial advisors looking to actively manage their clients’ exposure to crypto in coordination with their broader investment plans, offering portfolio rebalancing, fee collection and billing, account planning, and integrated reporting in all major portfolio accounting solutions.

The Bitwise BTC/ETH Equal Weight SMA will be made available by Bitwise to both accredited and non-accredited investors, is not subject to investment minimums, and offers daily liquidity. 

To learn more about Gemini's full-stack of institutional crypto offerings, [we invite you to reach out to us here](https://exchange.gemini.com/register/institution).

Onward and Upward!

Team Gemini

Bitwise Now Offers Investment Vehicle Providing Equal Exposure to Bitcoin and Ether Through Gemini BITRIA Platform

Today, we are thrilled to announce that Gemini Galactic Markets (Gemini Galactic), an affiliate of Gemini Trust Company, __has received approval from FINRA to operate a broker-dealer registered with the SEC and is officially a [FINRA member](http://www.finra.org)__.

As a result of this approval, Gemini Galactic is able to operate an alternative trading system (ATS), which will facilitate the trading of digital asset securities.

As the digital asset industry continues to grow, we believe blockchain infrastructure will change the way companies raise money in capital markets, and the ability to provide a regulated venue for the buying and selling of digital assets that are securities will be an important part of the blockchain ecosystem.

The digital asset security ecosystem is still developing and we are excited to be a first mover and to help further develop this space. Gemini Galactic will leverage the existing experience and expertise in crypto assets across the Gemini family to operate a secure and compliant trading platform and offer new products to our users.

Gemini is committed to proactively working with regulators to ensure our customers have as much freedom and choice as possible in accessing the digital asset ecosystem. Gemini Galactic’s broker-dealer registration is an important step in fulfilling that vision, and we’re excited to expand our offerings in lockstep with the growth and maturity of the industry.

Onward and Upward! 

Team Gemini

Gemini Galactic Markets Approved for FINRA Membership and Broker-Dealer Operation

Today, we are thrilled to announce that [EarlyBird](https://www.getearlybird.io/), a [Gemini Frontier Fund](https://www.gemini.com/frontier-fund) portfolio company, has launched their waitlist for EarlyBird Crypto. 

EarlyBird Crypto, powered by Gemini, will allow parents, family, and friends to contribute crypto to a child’s investment portfolio, __providing the next generation of investors with early exposure to the burgeoning crypto asset class__. Gemini will serve as the custodian for EarlyBird Crypto, providing institutional-grade security and compliance to families investing on the platform.

Parents who [__sign up__ for the EarlyBird Crypto waitlist](https://www.getearlybird.io/crypto) will receive __early access__ to the offering when it goes live next month, as well as a __$25 sign-up bonus__.

EarlyBird is a platform for parents, family, and friends to seamlessly invest in a child's future, having helped tens of thousands of families open accounts for their children since launching in December 2020. Within minutes, parents can set up an account, choose from a range of diversified portfolios, set a recurring investment, and invite friends and family to make contributions. 

__With the launch of EarlyBird Crypto, parents can invest in bitcoin and ether for their children, a first for the wealth management industry!__ 

The launch of EarlyBird Crypto comes on the heels of the company’s $4M seed funding round, led by Alexis Ohanian’s Seven Seven Six and with strategic participation from the [Gemini Frontier Fund](https://www.gemini.com/frontier-fund). 

Gemini offers crypto services and infrastructure to a growing number of asset managers and institutions across the world through [Gemini Custody](https://www.gemini.com/custody), [Gemini Fund Solutions](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-fund-solutions-a-unified-offering-for-fund-managers), and custom integrations with registered investment advisors and FinTech platforms. As a New York trust company and qualified custodian regulated by the New York State Department of Financial Services, one of the most sophisticated financial regulators in the world, the security of our clients’ assets is our top priority.

To learn more about our full-stack of institutional crypto offerings, we invite you to [reach out to us here](https://exchange.gemini.com/register/institution).

We are excited to work with EarlyBird to provide parents with access to crypto investments for their children, as we continue on our mission to unlock the future of financial, creative, and personal freedom through crypto!

Onward and Upward!

Team Gemini

EarlyBird To Launch Crypto Wallet Custodied by Gemini, Allowing Parents To Invest in Bitcoin and Ether for Their Children

Today, we are pleased to announce the acquisition of Omniex, a trading technology platform that provides order, execution, and portfolio management system solutions for institutional crypto trading. 

The acquisition enables Gemini to publicly launch [Gemini Prime](http://www.gemini.com/prime), a crypto prime brokerage offering that has been supporting a select client base over the past year. Following the full rollout of Gemini Prime in Q2 2022, the integration of Omniex with Gemini’s existing custody, clearing, and OTC trading capabilities will simplify trading for institutional investors by providing:

- A single point of access to multiple exchanges and OTC liquidity sources
- Sophisticated tools and algorithms to ensure best execution and trade transparency
- An institutional-grade trading experience with full API connectivity

There has been unprecedented demand among institutional investors for access to the full breadth of the digital asset ecosystem over the past year and Gemini has been building an institutional business focused on providing the best crypto trading technology available. Combined with our institutional-grade security and proactive regulatory approach, the integration of Omniex's technology with Gemini's unique clearing and custody capabilities creates a full-service industry-leading crypto prime brokerage service tailored to the needs of institutional investors.

Gemini brings a variety of specialized services focused on the institutional community including: [Gemini Fund Solutions](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-fund-solutions-a-unified-offering-for-fund-managers), Gemini Wealth & Investment Solutions, Hedge Fund & Liquidity Solutions, and Corporate & Family Office Solutions. These offerings are tailor-made for the differing needs of the wide swath of institutions that are seeing a need to participate in the crypto ecosystem.

Omniex was founded by CEO Hu Liang and Chief Strategy Officer John Burnett. Hu was most recently an SVP at State Street where he oversaw the bank’s Emerging Technologies Center (focused on crypto and blockchain) and the bank’s APAC electronic FX platforms and data businesses. He joined State Street in 2007 through the acquisition of Currenex, the first internet based electronic FX ECN platform. John was most recently a Managing Director at State Street within the Emerging Technologies Center, leading all crypto and blockchain efforts globally for the bank starting in 2015. As part of this acquisition, the Omniex team will be joining Gemini to expand and drive platform capabilities for the Prime Services division.

To learn more about Gemini Prime, please visit [gemini.com/prime](http://www.gemini.com/prime) or [reach out to us here](https://exchange.gemini.com/register/institution). 

Onward and Upward!

Team Gemini

Gemini Acquires Trading Technology Platform Omniex, Launches Gemini Prime

At Gemini, we are excited about opportunities for growth in Latin America, one of the most promising international markets for crypto adoption. 

Starting December 14th, __Gemini and Bancolombia will launch a partnership__ to provide an initial cohort of customers of the Colombian bank a __seamless on- and off-ramp to trade [bitcoin (BTC)](https://www.gemini.com/prices/bitcoin)__, __[Ether (ETH)](https://www.gemini.com/prices/ether)__, __[Litecoin (LTC)](http://gemini.com/prices/litecoin)__, and __[Bitcoin Cash (BCH)](https://www.gemini.com/prices/bitcoin-cash)__ through the Gemini exchange. 

Our partnership is part of a one-year pilot program run by Colombia’s financial regulator, the Superintendencia Financiera de Colombia (SFC), and will offer users seamless and secure access to crypto.

The partnership also serves as an important step toward the strategic expansion of Gemini’s presence in Latin America. We look forward to working closely with the Colombian crypto ecosystem and to supporting crypto products that empower Colombians to take control of their financial lives. 

Gemini offers crypto services and infrastructure to a growing number of financial institutions and asset managers across the world through [Gemini Custody](https://www.gemini.com/custody), [Gemini Fund Solutions](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-fund-solutions-a-unified-offering-for-fund-managers), and custom integrations with registered investment advisors and FinTech platforms. As a New York trust company and qualified custodian regulated by the New York State Department of Financial Services, __the security of our clients’ assets is our top priority__.

Crypto is borderless by nature, and we are committed to expanding crypto access to individuals across the globe. We believe that crypto can play an important role in the development of Latin America as interest in blockchain and innovative technologies proliferates throughout the region. 

As we continue on our mission to build the future of finance, we invite institutions from across Latin America exploring opportunities in crypto to [reach out to us here](https://exchange.gemini.com/register/institution). 

Onward and Upward!

Cynthia Del Pozo  
Principal, Strategy and Corporate Development
![Blog Inline 03](//images.ctfassets.net/jg6lo9a2ukvr/6NjikZ3DzdLHZdqBx8G1oG/87208c48dc03f7b455a92a1085b1de34/Blog_Inline_03.png)
*Spanish Translation*

## Gemini Ofrecerá Compra y Venta de Criptomonedas a Clientes de Bancolombia Con Su Expansión a Latinoamérica

En Gemini, estamos increíblemente entusiasmados por el crecimiento del ecosistema de criptomonedas en Latinoamérica - uno de los mercados internacionales más prometedores para la aceptación de cripto.

A principios de este año, Gemini y Bancolombia establecieron una alianza la cual le proveerá a clientes de Bancolombia seleccionados, un acceso fácil y seguro a la compra y venta de [bitcoin (BTC)](https://www.gemini.com/prices/bitcoin), [Ether (ETH)](https://www.gemini.com/prices/ether), [Litecoin (LTC)](https://www.gemini.com/prices/litecoin) y [Bitcoin Cash (BCH)](https://www.gemini.com/prices/bitcoin-cash) bajo el programa piloto de laArenera de la Superintendencia Financiera de Colombia (SFC).

A partir del 14 de diciembre, se iniciarán las operaciones de esta alianza la cual tendrá una duración de un año y será dirigida por la Superintendencia Financiera de Colombia, en conjunto con otras autoridades competentes en Colombia. Esta alianza representa un paso importante hacia la expansión estratégica de la presencia de Gemini en Latinoamérica.  Esperamos colaborar con el ecosistema colombiano de cripto y respaldar productos que le permitan a los colombianos tomar control sobre sus vidas financieras.

Gemini le ofrece infraestructura y servicios a un número creciente de instituciones financieras y asesores de inversión en todo el mundo a través de [Gemini Custody](https://www.gemini.com/custody) y [Gemini Fund Solutions](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-fund-solutions-a-unified-offering-for-fund-managers). Como compañía fiduciaria de Nueva York y custodio regulado por el Departamento de Servicios Financieros en el estado de Nueva York, la seguridad de los activos de nuestros clientes es nuestra prioridad.

Las criptomonedas no tienen fronteras y estamos comprometidos a expandir el acceso a ellas mundialmente. Confiamos que cripto tendrá un rol importante en el desarrollo financiero de Latinoamérica a medida que el interés en blockchain y en tecnologías innovadoras crecen en la región.

A medida que continuamos con nuestra misión de construir el futuro financiero, invitamos a esas instituciones, en todo Latinoamérica, interesadas en explorar oportunidades en cripto a [comunicarse con nosotros](https://exchange.gemini.com/register/institution).

¡Hacia adelante!

Cynthia Del Pozo  
Principal, Strategy and Corporate Development

Gemini To Offer Crypto Trading to Bancolombia Customers With Latin American Expansion

Today, we are thrilled to announce our partnership with Holon Global Investments, a leading Australian fund manager. Gemini will serve as custodian and execution partner for the Holon Wholesale Filecoin Fund. 

The [Filecoin (FIL)](https://www.gemini.com/cryptopedia/filecoin-fil-democratizing-cloud-storage) held by the Filecoin Fund will be stored and managed in [Gemini Custody™](https://www.gemini.com/custody), and our global network of experienced traders will facilitate the purchase of FIL for the Fund. As we continue building [Gemini’s presence in the Asia Pacific region](https://www.gemini.com/blog/geminis-apac-expansion-builds-global-momentum), we are excited to collaborate with Holon Global and provide industry-leading security and compliance to institutional and high net-worth investors seeking exposure to crypto. 

The custody and execution services provided to Holon’s Filecoin Fund are under [Gemini Fund Solutions](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-fund-solutions-a-unified-offering-for-fund-managers). GFS is the only unified platform providing custody, clearing, trade execution, and other capital markets services specifically designed to support fund issuers entering the crypto space.

The Holon Wholesale Filecoin Fund aims to raise AUD$25 million over three months, and will offer a unique fund structure with a 100% FIL return over five years and a 0% management fee. FIL is the native token of the Filecoin Network, a decentralized data-sharing platform. To generate returns, the Filecoin Fund will purchase FIL and lend it out to Holon Global Innovations, a subsidiary of Holon Global Investments. In return, Holon Global Innovations will pay the Filecoin Fund 1 FIL for each borrowed FIL over a five-year period. 

Our partnership with Holon Global reinforces Gemini’s global reach as we enter the Australian market alongside one of the most innovative and forward-looking asset managers in the region. 

Gemini offers crypto services and infrastructure to a growing number of asset managers and traditional financial institutions across the world through Gemini Custody, GFS, and custom integrations with registered investment advisors and FinTech platforms. As a New York trust company and qualified custodian regulated by the New York State Department of Financial Services, one of the most sophisticated financial regulators in the world, the security of our clients’ assets is our top priority. 

To learn more about our full-stack of institutional crypto offerings, we invite you to [reach out to us here](https://exchange.gemini.com/register/institution). 

Onward and Upward!

Team Gemini

Gemini to Custody Australia-Based Holon Global’s Filecoin Fund

Last week, Gemini leaders took the virtual stage at Coindesk’s Consensus 2021 to discuss a range of topics including the __emergence of mainstream crypto products__, __how exchanges are harnessing a surge of institutional interest__, and __the development of the crypto industry in Colombia__. 

We are honored to contribute leading voices to important conversations happening throughout the crypto community as our industry goes mainstream. 

Noah Perlman, Gemini’s Chief Operating Officer, was joined by Mastercard executive Jess Turner on a panel about the emergence of crypto products for everyday use. They spoke about the Gemini Credit Card, for which Mastercard will be the [exclusive network partner](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-credit-card-to-launch-with-mastercard-as-network-partner), and the growth of consumer-first products that can help catapult crypto into the mainstream. 

Noah outlined how the Gemini Credit Card will expose a broad retail audience to crypto without changing their day-to-day behavior, allowing users to seamlessly earn crypto rewards on the dollars they spend. He added that more than half of those on the 250,000+ strong waitlist are not existing Gemini customers, suggesting that people are seeking risk-free exposure to crypto. The card rolls out this summer to U.S. residents in every state and will grant up to 3% back on purchases anywhere Mastercard is accepted — [join the waitlist](https://www.gemini.com/credit-card/waitlist) for early access to the card. 

Moving from retail to the institutional front, our Global Head of Business Development, Dave Abner, dove into Gemini’s expansive institutional offering that includes custody, clearing, and trade execution services. He noted the central role education will play in broader institutional adoption, adding that he anticipates the crypto exchange traded product market alone will grow to $100 billion to $200 billion over the coming years. 

With unified offerings — like [Gemini Fund Solutions](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-fund-solutions-a-unified-offering-for-fund-managers) — Dave explained how Gemini works alongside institutions seeking to harness novel opportunities in crypto that will continue to emerge over the next decade. [Reach out](https://exchange.gemini.com/register/institution) to our institutional team to learn more.

Borders have not quelled the institutional crypto buzz, as our Head of Strategy and Corporate Development, Marshall Beard, outlined on a panel about crypto in Colombia. Highlighting our partnership with Bancolombia, Marshall noted the major role crypto can play in the Latin American country following the launch of its regulatory sandbox. With our regulation- and security-first mindset, Marshall expressed the potential for Gemini to work closely with the Colombian crypto ecosystem to build trust, and support crypto products that can empower Colombians to take control of their financial lives. 

With the conversation as vibrant as ever, we are thrilled to continue to contribute innovative ideas and solutions to discussions that will help propel the crypto ecosystem forward. 

Onward and Upward!

Team Gemini

Consensus Roundup: Gemini Credit Card and Institutional Solutions Take Center Stage

We are excited to announce that Gemini has formed a __strategic partnership with WisdomTree Investments and Onramp Invest__ to facilitate financial advisors’ investment into cryptocurrency. WisdomTree’s new +Crypto Model Portfolios are designed to educate registered investment advisors (RIAs) on allocating their clients’ portfolios to crypto. RIAs can follow through by investing into crypto on behalf of their clients using Onramp Invest.

Gemini will provide Onramp with custody, clearing, and execution services so that RIAs and  their clients can gain access to one of the best performing asset classes of the last decade.

As cryptocurrency continues to garner more and more attention and appeal, demand for exposure to the asset class is growing rapidly. WisdomTree’s +Crypto Model Portfolios are intended to serve as a resource for RIAs to assess potential crypto portfolio performance, gain strategic insights about crypto investing, learn about potential crypto tax efficiencies, and understand crypto investing costs in order to best advise their clients. Onramp Invest, via its partnership with Gemini, provides seamless, secure, and compliant access to bitcoin and other digital assets so that RIAs can learn, model, invest, and manage their client’s cryptocurrency investments.

Gemini is a New York trust company and fiduciary subject to the capital reserve requirements, cybersecurity requirements, and banking compliance standards set forth by the New York State Department of Financial Services (NYDFS) and New York Banking Law. We have met the industry's highest financial and security compliance standards and are the only exchange and custodian in the world to have completed both [SOC 1 Type 2](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-completes-soc-1-type-2-and-soc-2-type-2-examinations-leading-crypto) and [SOC 2 Type 2 examinations](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-completes-soc-1-type-2-and-soc-2-type-2-examinations-leading-crypto), which were certified by Deloitte, a fundamental requirement for safeguarding crypto assets for investors.

RIAs are searching for a rapid, reliable, and compliant way to satisfy their clients’ desire to add crypto to their portfolios. Now they can, with WisdomTree, Onramp Invest, and Gemini.

If you would like to learn more about our custody, clearing, and execution services, [connect with us](https://exchange.gemini.com/register/institution) today.

Onward and Upward,

David Abner  
Global Head of Business Development

Gemini Partners With WisdomTree and Onramp to Bring Crypto to Financial Advisors

Over the past year, Gemini has supported [institutional investors](https://www.gemini.com/institutions) with crypto expertise that is second to none while meeting security and compliance standards that are equal to or better than those found at legacy financial services firms. 

Whether you’re a [fund manager](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-fund-solutions-a-unified-offering-for-fund-managers) seeking to launch a crypto fund, a private investor seeking to diversify your portfolio into crypto, or a large institution assessing plans to integrate crypto into your business model, our experienced teams can provide the unified support you need to succeed on your crypto journey.

__First Movers Look to Gemini’s Crypto-Native Platform__

We have built an expansive crypto-native platform that aims to serve clients from all walks of life, providing a bridge from the legacy financial system to the financial frontier of crypto and blockchain. With our support as crypto custodian and partner, an increasing number of established institutions are diving into crypto with Gemini:

- [__3iQ Corp.__](https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2021/02/23/2180047/0/en/The-Bitcoin-Fund-by-3iQ-Completes-Private-Placements.html): We worked with 3iQ, a leading Canadian digital asset manager, to shepherd their bitcoin and ether closed-end funds through regulatory approval and on to the public markets. Serving as the custodian for both their bitcoin and ether funds, we continue to provide ongoing support.

- [__Purpose Investments__](https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2021/02/12/2174792/0/en/Purpose-Investments-Cleared-to-Launch-First-Bitcoin-ETF-in-the-World.html): We serve as the custodian for the first North American bitcoin ETF launched by Canadian asset manager Purpose Investments. We’re also the custodian for their ether ETF.  

- [__Evolve ETFs__](https://evolveetfs.com/2021/04/evolve-announces-worlds-first-ether-etf-begins-trading-today-on-tsx/): We serve as the crypto custodian for Canadian asset manager Evolve, supporting their bitcoin and ether ETFs.

- [__BTG Pactual__](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-to-custody-btg-pactual-bitcoin-fund): We are the custodian and trade execution partner for BTG Pactual’s Bitcoin 20 Multi-Market Investment Fund, the first bitcoin fund launched by the largest investment bank in Latin America. 

- [__Eaglebrook Advisors__](https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2020/11/17/2128376/0/en/Eaglebrook-Advisors-Announces-that-Mariner-Wealth-Advisors-is-Making-the-Eaglebrook-Bitcoin-SMA-Available-to-Clients.html): We secure and custody digital assets for Eaglebrook's clients, who represent some of the largest registered investment advisors (RIAs) in the country.

- [__Caruso__](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/caruso-partners-with-gemini-in-industry-first-to-bring-blockchain-technology-and-bitcoin-to-caruso-properties-throughout-southern-california-301264610.html): We helped Caruso, one of the largest privately-held real estate companies in the U.S., to add crypto to their balance sheet through their treasury arm and are further supporting their acceptance of bitcoin rent payments for their retail and residential properties, a first in the industry. 

- __GlobalBlock__: We partner with GlobalBlock, a leading UK-based digital asset brokerage, to provide a wide range of tradable assets, and best-in-class execution and liquidity for their growing base of individual, corporate, and institutional clients.

- __BullionStar__: We provide trade execution services for Singapore-based BullionStar, one of the first bullion dealers in the world to accept cryptocurrency as a mode of payment for physical gold, silver, and platinum bullion.

Cryptocurrency is a global phenomenon, and we have continued to [expand our offices in the UK and APAC](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-builds-out-uk-institutional-offering), with teams that are ready to provide institutional support to international clients. 

Gemini provides the complete spectrum of institutional investors with a full-service on-ramp to crypto. [Reach out to us here](https://exchange.gemini.com/register/institution).

Onward and Upward!

Team Gemini

Gemini welcomes fund managers, private investor, and any large institution with plans to integrate crypto into their business model with a security first mindset. 

Institutional Crypto Adoption Grows With Gemini

Institutions Are Moving Into Crypto With Gemini

We are thrilled to announce that Gemini now has more than __$30 billion in crypto under custody__. Tracking with the impressive growth of the crypto market this year and increased participation from institutional investors, we have more than tripled our crypto under custody since the beginning of 2021.

Gemini Custody™ includes the following features and more:

- __Qualified Custodian__ — Gemini Trust Company, LLC is a New York trust company and Qualified Custodian chartered by the New York State Department of Financial Services (NYDFS) under Section 100 of the New York Banking Law, and subject to NYDFS capital reserve requirements.
- __SOC 1__ — we are SOC 1 Type 2 compliant.
- __SOC 2__ — we are [SOC 2 Type 2](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-completes-soc-2-type-2-examination-another-first-in-crypto) compliant. 
- __Offline Cold Storage__ — your crypto is custodied offline using hardware security modules (HSMs), multisignature technology, and geographically distributed, access-controlled facilities. You can read more [here](https://gemini.com/security/).
- __Hardware Security Keys__ — secure your account with [hardware security keys](https://www.gemini.com/blog/securing-your-gemini-account-with-webauthn) via WebAuthn. This provides hardware-backed, cryptographic proof that it is you (and not someone else) signing into your account and thwarts hackers even if they have your password.
- __Approved Address List__ — create an approved address list that restricts your crypto withdrawals to approved addresses only or disables all crypto withdrawals from your account.
- __Instant Liquidity__ — instantly trade your crypto in custody on our exchange without waiting for it to be transferred out of cold storage.
- __Web Interface__ — our web interface and account features allow you to check your balances, download account statements, initiate withdrawals, and more. Give auditors view-only access into your account to confirm balances, transactions, and activity.
- __Sub-accounts__ — [create and manage](https://www.gemini.com/blog/introducing-subaccounts-for-institutions) multiple accounts with distinct sets of users, account balances, and unique, independently verifiable crypto addresses all under a single master account.

We serve a [range of institutional clients](https://www.gemini.com/institutions), such as hedge funds, trading firms, corporate treasuries, and asset managers. In March, we announced [Gemini Fund Solutions](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-fund-solutions-a-unified-offering-for-fund-managers), which supports more crypto fund issuers than any firm in the world. We’ve assisted asset managers in successfully launching several exchange-listed crypto funds, including the first North American bitcoin and ether ETFs.

Our custodial services are used by some of the worlds largest asset managers including BlockFi, Blockchange, CoinList, CI Global Asset Management, DAiM, BTG Pactual, Caruso, Eaglebrook Advisors, and WealthSimple.

If you would like to learn more about our custody solution, [connect with us](https://exchange.gemini.com/register/institution) today!

Onward and Upward!

Team Gemini

Gemini Surpasses $30 Billion in Crypto Under Custody

At Gemini, our global footprint reflects crypto’s global reach. As we continue to expand, we increasingly support a range of clients around the world. 

Our experienced team in the UK caters to institutional investors seeking exposure to cryptocurrency, including asset managers, corporations, wealth managers, and high-net worth individuals, with solutions designed to meet the highest standards of compliance, security, and client service.

Our services include strong trade execution capabilities, unified support for clients seeking to launch crypto funds, and payment solutions and bespoke integrations to help companies and high-net worth individuals leverage the rapid growth of cryptocurrency. 

__Industry-Leading Compliance, Security, and Custody__

Institutions will never compromise on security – and neither will Gemini.

Gemini Custody™ offers 100% offline storage for digital assets in segregated addresses. All assets held are secured by institutional-grade technology and multi-layered security architecture. Gemini maintains $290M in digital asset insurance across our custody and exchange products, in addition to capital reserves, which applies globally. We are the only cryptocurrency platform in the world to have completed the [SOC 1 Type 2](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-completes-soc-1-type-2-and-soc-2-type-2-examinations-leading-crypto) and [SOC 2 Type 2](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-completes-soc-1-type-2-and-soc-2-type-2-examinations-leading-crypto) examinations for both our exchange and custody products, certified by Deloitte. 

__Unrivaled Knowledge and Client Service__

The Gemini team has deep expertise in crypto, traditional capital markets, security, and technology, which allows us to partner with clients and deliver tailored solutions that meet unique requirements. 

We invite institutional investors in the UK to [learn more about our offering](https://www.gemini.com/institutions) and reach out to [Stephanie Ramezan](mailto:sales.emea@gemini.com) and [Ekaterina Daminova](mailto:sales.emea@gemini.com) in our Business Development team to explore the unparalleled growth potential of crypto.

Onward and Upward!

Blair Halliday  
Head of UK

Gemini Builds Out UK Institutional Offering

We are delighted to announce that Gemini will serve as custodian and trade execution partner for BTG Pactual’s Bitcoin 20 Multi-Market Investment Fund, the first bitcoin fund launched by a Brazilian investment bank. 

As we continue to expand our institutional fund offerings, we are thrilled to provide BTG Pactual, the largest investment bank in Latin America, with secure and compliant access to bitcoin. The fund will invest 20% of its assets under management in bitcoin and is the first of a variety of cryptocurrency products BTG Pactual plans to release. 

Gemini provides cryptocurrency services and infrastructure to a growing number of fund managers and traditional financial institutions across the world through [Gemini Custody](https://www.gemini.com/custody), [Gemini Fund Solutions](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-fund-solutions-a-unified-offering-for-fund-managers), and custom integrations with registered investment advisors and FinTech platforms. 

Our mission — __to empower the individual__ — is aligned with BTG Pactual’s goal to increase access to investment opportunities for its clients. We are committed to providing a seamless on-ramp for global clients seeking new opportunities to enter the booming cryptocurrency industry and tap into a growing wave of investor interest.

We invite institutions seeking to explore a crypto fund offering to reach out to [GFS@gemini.com](mailto:gfs@gemini.com).

Onward and upward!

Team Gemini

Gemini to Custody BTG Pactual Bitcoin Fund

We are proud to introduce Gemini Fund Solutions, the first unified platform providing fund managers with custody, clearing, trade execution, and other capital markets services __specifically designed for crypto ETFs, closed-end funds (CEFs), and other fund vehicles__.

The process for launching a crypto fund has been fragmented and disjointed, until now. Our regulated and secure platform is custom-built for institutions seeking a swift go-to-market blueprint that allows fund managers to seamlessly offer crypto products to their clients while managing all of the underlying infrastructure in a single place. 

[Gemini Fund Solutions](http://gemini.com/institutions#fundsolutions) will support fund issuers every step of the way throughout onboarding and implementation and provide technical support and ongoing operational expertise to help ensure that Gemini Fund Solutions is seamlessly integrated into their systems and workflow. Gemini Fund Solutions already custodies and supports two bitcoin ETFs sponsored by __Purpose Investments__ and __Evolve Funds Group__, which trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) and currently hold more than $500 million combined. In addition, we also custody and support several public and private bitcoin and ether funds including those managed by __3iQ__, __CI Global Asset Management__, __Galaxy__, and __Ninepoint Partners__, which trade on the TSX and currently hold approximately $2 billion combined. 

Gemini Fund Solutions has met the industry's highest financial and security compliance standards. Gemini is the only exchange and custodian in the world to have completed both [SOC 1 Type 2](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-completes-soc-1-type-2-and-soc-2-type-2-examinations-leading-crypto) and [SOC 2 Type 2](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-completes-soc-1-type-2-and-soc-2-type-2-examinations-leading-crypto) examinations, which were certified by Deloitte, a fundamental requirement for safely managing financial products for investors.

Now more than ever, fund managers are searching for new ways to create exposure to the booming cryptocurrency industry and tap into the wave of investor interest. Gemini Fund Solutions provides rapid, reliable, and comprehensive access to the world of crypto through traditional investment vehicles. 

We invite any fund managers seeking to explore a crypto fund offering to reach out to [GFS@gemini.com](mailto:GFS@gemini.com).

Onward and Upward,

Team Gemini

Gemini Fund Solutions: A Unified Offering for Fund Managers

Today, we are excited to welcome David Abner as Gemini’s Global Head of Business Development. 

David will spearhead the expansion of Gemini’s institutional business and bolster our reputation as a trusted and secure cryptocurrency exchange and custodian. He will manage a team focused on cultivating Gemini’s relationships with major institutional partners and high-net-worth individuals on a global scale. 

David joins us after launching Dabner Capital Partners, a boutique advisory and investment firm focused on exchange traded funds (ETFs) and digital assets, following more than a decade at WisdomTree Asset Management. He served as Executive Vice President of WisdomTree and CEO of WisdomTree Europe, where he oversaw a significant expansion in assets under management as it became the ninth largest ETF provider in Europe. Prior to WisdomTree David was managing director and head of ETFs at both BNP Paribas and Bear Stearns. David also authored *The ETF Handbook* and is an educator in the ETF industry. 

The cryptocurrency industry continues to experience tremendous growth and 2020 saw more institutions pour resources into the new asset class, setting the stage for wider adoption and stronger use cases globally. David will work to ensure that Gemini remains the partner of choice for institutions seeking knowledge and guidance as they look to engage with cryptocurrencies in a secure and regulated manner. 

David is the latest addition to an incredibly accomplished group of senior leaders who have joined Gemini over the past few years, including [David Damato](https://gemini.com/blog/gemini-welcomes-david-damato-as-chief-security-officer) as Chief Security Officer and [Sydney Schaub](https://gemini.com/blog/welcoming-our-general-counsel) as Chief Legal Officer (formerly General Counsel).

Welcome to the team, David!

If you are interested in joining David and his team as Gemini expands across the globe, please stay tuned for openings on our [careers page](https://gemini.com/careers) – we’re hiring!

Onward and Upward,

Noah B. Perlman  
Chief Operating Officer

Gemini Welcomes David Abner as Global Head of Business Development

Today we are excited to announce our partnership and integration with Blockchange Inc., a digital asset investing platform for professional wealth managers.
 
This first-of-its-kind integration provides RIAs __a one-stop-shop for buying, selling, and storing digital assets__ with seamless execution support and institutional-grade security for all digital assets available on the Gemini platform. 
 
Quantum Capital Management, a wealth management firm with more than $125M assets under management, is signing on to the Blockchange-Gemini solution to give clients the opportunity to diversify their customers’ portfolios into increasingly popular digital asset classes.
 
The Blockchange-Gemini solution offers a variety of benefits that differentiate it from digital asset hedge funds and index funds including deeper customization and flexibility, superior tax benefits, and ownership of the underlying assets – all with a qualified custodian, which is particularly critical in the digital asset ecosystem. 
 
Wealth managers are increasingly recognizing the opportunity for returns and long-term value in digital assets. Our partnership with Blockchange will provide them with a simple, elegant, and secure crypto solution.
 
Onward and Upward,

Team Gemini


Gemini Partners With Blockchange to Bring Digital Assets to Registered Investment Advisors

Today, we are excited to announce that you can now store [Chainlink (LINK)](https://gemini.com/prices/chainlink), [Golem (GNT)](https://gemini.com/prices/golem), [Numeraire (NMR)](https://gemini.com/prices/numeraire), [Orchid (OXT)](https://gemini.com/prices/orchid), and [Storj (STORJ)](https://gemini.com/prices/storj) at Gemini Custody™, a Qualified Custodian. 

We recently secured the most comprehensive [insurance](https://gemini.com/blog/gemini-launches-captive-insurance-company-now-has-the-most-custody) coverage in the industry for Gemini Custody™ and completed a [SOC 2 Type 2](https://gemini.com/blog/gemini-completes-soc-2-type-2-examination-another-first-in-crypto) exam. You deserve a safe and trusted place to store your crypto — __*trust is our product*__. 

Additionally, we have developed customizable security and governance controls, including multi-user approval processes that you can tailor to your organization’s needs. You can also register a [hardware security token](https://gemini.com/blog/securing-your-gemini-account-with-webauthn) or deploy biometrics as a two-factor authentication method for your account.

To learn more, please see our [Guide to Crypto Custody](https://gemini.com/custody/whitepaper) or contact __custody@gemini.com__.

Onward and Upward,

Team Gemini

Store Your Crypto and Give Yourself Peace of Mind With Gemini Custody™.

Gemini Custody™ for GNT, LINK, NMR, OXT, and STORJ is live!

Gemini Custody™ Now Supports GNT, LINK, NMR, OXT, and STORJ

We are excited to announce that we have launched Nakamoto, Ltd. (Nakamoto), a captive insurance company licensed by the Bermuda Monetary Authority (BMA) to insure Gemini Custody™. Nakamoto — __*the world’s first captive to insure crypto custody*__ — allows us to increase our insurance capacity beyond the coverage currently available in the commercial insurance market. This insurance solution gives Gemini Custody™ __*$200 million*__ in insurance coverage — __*the largest limit of insurance coverage purchased by any crypto custodian in the world.*__ Our policy insures against the theft of digital assets from Gemini Custody that results from a direct security breach or hack of Gemini’s Custody systems, or theft by a Gemini employee.

Gemini customers can now also purchase additional insurance for their segregated crypto assets (for inquiries, please reach out to custody@gemini.com). In addition, we have [Hot Wallet](https://gemini.com/blog/digital-assets-insurance) insurance coverage for your crypto we hold in our online Hot Wallet. Lastly, U.S. dollar deposits held at Gemini are eligible for FDIC “pass through” [deposit insurance](https://gemini.com/user-agreement/#fdic-insurance).

Insurance is essential to the health and growth of modern financial markets and we’re proud to bring insurance to the crypto markets — a critical next step on our mission — __*to empower the individual through crypto.*__

Gemini Custody™ is regulated by the New York State Department of Financial Services (NYDFS) and is [SOC 2 Type 1](https://gemini.com/blog/gemini-completes-soc-2-review-a-worlds-first-for-a-cryptocurrency-exchange-and-custodian) compliant. For more information on Gemini Custody™ or our custody insurance solution please reach out to custody@gemini.com.

Onward and Upward,

Yusuf Hussain, Head of Risk

__Note:__ Our policy does not cover any losses resulting from any unauthorized access to your user account. You agree and understand that you are solely responsible (and you will not hold us responsible) for managing and maintaining the security of your user account login credentials and any other required forms of authentication, including your API keys. You further agree and understand that we are not responsible (and you will not hold us responsible) for any unauthorized access to or use of your user account and/or your Gemini account. Please refer to our User Agreement for further details. 

*Updated: April 11, 2022*

![Group 2020-01-13 CaptiveInsurance photo01](//images.ctfassets.net/jg6lo9a2ukvr/3UBqo04LiICJqCPfjFjqQS/897e3a6382ef897c8eb40a96fe6449ff/Group_2020-01-13_CaptiveInsurance_photo01.jpg)
*Hon. Curtis L. Dickinson, JP, MP, Minister of Finance; Sydney Schaub, Chief Legal Officer, formerly General Counsel, Gemini; Tyler Winklevoss, CEO, Gemini; Hon. E. David Burt, JP, MP, Premier of Bermuda;  Cameron Winklevoss, President, Gemini; Yusuf Hussain, Head of Risk, Gemini; Denis Pitcher, Chief Fintech Advisor to the Premier of Bermuda.*


Gemini Launches Captive Insurance Company - Now Has the Most Custody Insurance Coverage in the Crypto Market

_In the final blog of our three-part blog series on crypto custody, we focus on_ **_questions and considerations_** _for customers when choosing a crypto custodian. (Missed part one or part two? Read about the three tiers of crypto custody_ [_here_](https://www.gemini.com/blog/the-three-tiers-of-securely-storing-your-crypto-assets) _and dive deeper into institutional-grade crypto custody_ [_here_](https://www.gemini.com/blog/understanding-institutional-grade-crypto-custody).)_

**Part Three: Questions and Considerations**

Lawmakers and regulators may ultimately establish a broader set of legal and regulatory requirements to ensure safekeeping of cryptocurrency by custody providers. For the time being though, it’s largely cryptocurrency investors who must consider security, alongside other features and capabilities, when selecting one or more custody providers. Some of the chief considerations for customers today are summarized below:

*   **Liquidity:** The speed at which customers want to access funds must be balanced with security concerns around transaction verification. If, for example, an asset movement request can be handled ultra fast, how “offline” or geographically distributed is the system, really? However, if the provider has instant trading capabilities from offline storage while maintaining the full operation process around transaction verification, you can have the benefits of getting into the market quickly, without compromising on security.
*   **Scalability:** Institutional customers should consider how a custodian’s solutions can support their growing activity and need for additional services over time. For example, are there sub-accounting tools for multi-strategy accounts, how does whitelisting work, and how are new account holders verified, background-checked, and onboarded?
*   **Fees:** Rather than seek out a solution based on initial sticker prices, customers can consider how well a given solution meets their needs and how its price model aligns with the security, features, and value delivered. Does the custodian require an initial set up fee, are there minimum holdings required to custody assets, or how might fees scale as assets increase?
*   **Leadership:** A company’s senior leaders should not have the ability to access or move funds. Asking about leadership’s role in system governance can help customers understand how a custody provider ensures there is no single point of failure. Asking how governance process changes are made and who has access to those processes can confirm changes are not done in isolation, potentially eliminating risk associated with a single person gaining unauthorized control of your cryptocurrency.
*   **Monitoring and Change Management:** A best in-class system should be continually assessed and enhanced in a methodological way. Knowing what mechanisms are in place for visiting sites and auditing equipment could be essential for understanding upgrades and staff rotations. Along those lines, customers should ask about controls applied for the testing and certification of site-by-site performance.
*   **Licensing and Audits:** Many providers of crypto custody solutions operate without a license, which can leave customers open to many risks. Even among licensed providers, there are key differences in the type of license and that granting jurisdiction. In which state is the custody provider licensed? Does the license require capital reserve requirements, follow general banking standards, and fiduciary duties to customers? Customers should also ask who audits the company, what’s their general approach to compliance?
*   **Insurance:** The insurance market for cryptocurrency is highly limited today, and even the most robust policies available are limited in terms of amount and incidents covered. Customers should understand how their funds are insured relative to the overall coverage carried by a provider, and make sure to not be oversold on the value of a providers coverage.
*   **Security:** In part two of our blog series we examined [institutional-grade custody solutions](https://www.gemini.com/blog/understanding-institutional-grade-crypto-custody). Infrastructure and operational frameworks that help ensure the safety and security of where and how your cryptocurrency is being stored and moved are key.

Cryptocurrency is fast maturing as an asset class and customers choosing a custody provider should think long-term about what the provider brings to the table. Learn more about the state of crypto custody in our [Guide to Crypto Custody](http://bit.ly/2kAnkIU) or join our [webinar](https://gemini.com/custody/whitepaper/) today, October 7, 2019 at 12:00pm ET.

Onward and Upward,

Team Gemini

Questions and Considerations for Crypto Custodians

Today, we are excited to introduce **Gemini Custody™**, a Qualified Custodian for your crypto. While we have offered custodial services since our launch in October of 2015, we have expanded our product offering significantly:

- **More Cryptos** — we now support 18 cryptos for custody: [Bitcoin](https://gemini.com/prices/bitcoin), [Bitcoin Cash](https://gemini.com/prices/bitcoin-cash), [Ether](https://gemini.com/prices/ethereum), [Litecoin](https://gemini.com/prices/litecoin), [Zcash](https://gemini.com/prices/zcash), and the following ERC-20 tokens: [0x (ZRX)](https://gemini.com/prices/0x), [Basic Attention (BAT)](https://gemini.com/prices/bat), [Bread (BRD)](https://gemini.com/prices/bread), [Dai (DAI)](https://gemini.com/prices/dai), [Decentraland (MANA)](https://gemini.com/prices/decentraland), [Enjin (ENJ)](https://gemini.com/prices/enjin), [Flexacoin (FXC)](https://gemini.com/prices/flexacoin), [Gemini dollar (GUSD)](https://gemini.com/dollar), [Kyber Network (KNC)](https://gemini.com/prices/kybernetwork), [Loom Network (LOOM)](https://gemini.com/prices/loom), [Maker (MKR)](https://gemini.com/prices/maker), and [OmiseGo (OMG)](https://gemini.com/prices/omisego). Soon, we will be supporting even more!
- **Qualified Custodian** — Gemini Trust Company, LLC is a New York trust company and Qualified Custodian chartered by the New York State Department of Financial Services under Section 100 of the New York Banking Law.
- **SOC 2** — Gemini Custody™ is [SOC 2 Type 1](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-completes-soc-2-review-a-worlds-first-for-a-cryptocurrency-exchange-and-custodian) compliant. We are currently undergoing a Type 2 examination.
- **Offline Storage** — your crypto is custodied offline using hardware security modules (HSMs), multisignature technology, and geographically distributed, access-controlled facilities. You can read more [here](https://gemini.com/security/).
- **Hardware Security Keys** — secure your account with a [hardware security key](https://www.gemini.com/blog/securing-your-gemini-account-with-webauthn) via WebAuthn. This provides hardware-backed, cryptographic proof that it is you (and not someone else) signing into your account and thwarts hackers even if they have your password.
- **Withdrawal Address Whitelisting** — secure your account with our [withdrawal address whitelisting tool](https://www.gemini.com/blog/best-practices-for-securing-your-gemini-account) to restrict crypto withdrawals from your account to crypto addresses you whitelist. Alternatively, you can block all crypto withdrawals for your account.
- **Instant Liquidity** — instantly trade your crypto in custody on our exchange without waiting for it to be transferred out of cold storage.
- **New Interface** — new web interface and account features. Check your balances, download account statements, initiate withdrawals, and more. Give auditors view-only access into your account to confirm balances, transactions, and activity.
- **Sub-accounts** — [create and manage](https://www.gemini.com/blog/introducing-subaccounts-for-institutions) multiple accounts with distinct sets of users, account balances, and unique, independently verifiable crypto addresses all under a single master account.

Security has been a pillar of Gemini since inception and protecting your crypto is a cornerstone of our mission to build the future of money; **_trust is our product._** We are beyond thrilled to continue our security-first tradition by providing you with Gemini Custody™, an expanded offering of our state-of-the-art custody solution.

For more information, please see our [Guide to Crypto Custody](http://bit.ly/2kAnkIU). We will also be hosting a [webinar](https://gemini.com/custody/whitepaper/) on October 7, 2019 at 12:00pm ET to discuss Gemini Custody™ and the state of crypto custody. Please join us!

You can also check out our website for more information on [Gemini Custody](https://gemini.com/custody/), our [APIs](https://docs.gemini.com/rest-api/), and other [institutional products and services](https://gemini.com/institutions/) or contact [custody@gemini.com](mailto:custody@gemini.com).

Onward and Upward,

Tyler

Gemini was started with a security-first mentality. Gemini is a safe place to buy, sell, and store your cryptocurrency

Gemini Custody offers state-of-the-art custody solutions to safeguard your crypto.

Introducing Gemini Custody™

Today, we are thrilled to introduce Gemini Clearing™, a fully-electronic clearing and settlement solution for off-exchange or over-the-counter (OTC) crypto trades.

Gemini Clearing™ allows trades that are negotiated off-exchange or OTC to settle between Gemini accounts. Such trades can either be arranged bilaterally between two parties or brokered via a third party. Gemini Clearing™ provides regulated clearing and settlement services for such pre-arranged trades, which helps to ensure timely settlement and mitigate counterparty risk.

**Gemini Clearing™ Benefits:**

*   **Clearing & Settlement** — a trade settles immediately or inside an approved settlement window.
*   **Counterparty Risk** — no funds are transferred between Gemini accounts _until_ both parties of the trade are fully funded.
*   **Regulatory/Compliance** — each party is subject to Gemini’s robust KYC and BSA/AML program.
*   **Privacy** — trade details are known only to the parties involved and are not published via Gemini’s market data feed.

For customers looking for an additional layer of service and control, Gemini also offers a white glove solution for off-exchange clearing and settlement.

For more information on Gemini Clearing™ and our full suite of premier off-exchange services, please contact [sales@gemini.com](mailto:sales@gemini.com).

Onward and Upward,

Team Gemini

Gemini Clearing allows trades to be negotiated off-exchange or over-the-counter to secure settlements and mitigate counterparty risk.

Gemini Clearing: electronic clearing and settlements solutions for crypto trades

Introducing Gemini Clearing™

Today, we are excited to introduce sub-accounts for institutions. This feature allows our institutional customers to create and manage multiple accounts under a single master account. Sub-accounting is one of the most commonly requested features by our institutional customers and makes **_Gemini the world’s first crypto exchange and custodian to support this feature._**

Sub-accounts allow institutions to segregate trading strategies, funds, end customers, and more across multiple sub-accounts under the same master account. They also make it easier for institutions to earn volume-based trading fee discounts because volume for an institution is aggregated across all of its sub-accounts.

We believe this feature will be very valuable to a variety of our institutional customers, including hedge funds running multiple trading strategies, Registered Investment Advisors (RIAs) looking to manage segregated accounts, and retail brokers needing to maintain self-directed accounts for their customers.

Here’s a look at how sub-accounts work and the specific features available:

**1\. Account and User Management**

Using either our website interface or API, a master account administrator can create an unlimited number of sub-accounts. Each sub-account can have its own distinct set of users permissioned for specific roles, as well as its own account balance and unique, independently verifiable crypto addresses. A master account administrator can view and perform actions for any user of any sub-account.

Users can be permissioned at the sub-account level for specific roles on specific sub-accounts or at the master account level for specific privileges across all sub-accounts. See below for some examples.

![](https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/800/1*Nn_zdfMYAjAYRC4CVlOaFQ.png)

_In this example, there are two sub-accounts under the master account. User 1 has Auditor level access to the master account, which confers Auditor privileges on User 1 for all sub-accounts. User 2 only has Trading access to sub-account A, whereas User 3 has Trading access to both sub-accounts A and B. This means that User 2 may only place trades on behalf of sub-account A, whereas User 3 may place trades on behalf of either sub-account A or sub-account B._

Regardless of permissioning, users only need one set of login credentials. Users can easily toggle between different sub-accounts for which they have permissions via our website interface.

**2\. API Functionality**

API keys can be created and permissioned at either the master account level or sub-account level. Master account API keys can manage any sub-account simply by specifying the specific sub-account on which an action is to be performed. Specific sub-account API keys may also be permissioned for specific roles on specific sub-accounts. See below for some examples.

![](https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/800/1*OnAEaKiJWqhGQxMdZUYojQ.png)

_In this example, Alice, Bob, and Eve are members of a single institution. Alice’s API key has Admin and Auditor permissions at the master account level, whereas Bob’s API key only has Trading access to the ‘Stat Arb’ sub-account and Eve’s API key only has Trading access to the ‘Alpha One Strat’ sub-account._

All of our existing REST API endpoints are available to master account API keys. For more information, please see our [API Documentation](https://docs.gemini.com/rest-api/).

**3\. Instant Fund Transfers Between Sub-accounts**

You can instantly transfer crypto or fiat currency between sub-accounts at no charge. Such transfers are internal book transfers or “off-chain” and therefore _not_ broadcast to a given blockchain. As a result, they are instant, free, and private — they cannot be viewed by third parties.

**4\. Aggregation of Volume for Trading Fee Discounts**

When we calculate an institution’s volumes for the purposes of volume-based trading fee discounts, we aggregate the trading volume for all of its sub-accounts. This makes it easier for institutions that use sub-accounts for their trading strategies to earn volume-based trading fee discounts.

**5\. Offer Gemini Services to your Customers**

Institutions can also use sub-accounts to offer Gemini’s services to their own customers. By creating a sub-account for each of your customers you can custody assets, manage balances, and execute trades or other actions on their behalf.

If you have any questions or need help getting started with sub-accounts, please contact us at [sales@gemini.com](mailto:sales@gemini.com).

Onward and Upward,

Team Gemini

Introducing Sub-Accounts for Institutions

On our mission to **_build the future of money,_** it’s critical that we build a safe and reliable platform for our customers to buy, sell, and store cryptocurrency. To that end, we are excited to announce that we are opening an office in Chicago — one of the world’s major financial centers. Our Chicago office will serve as an engineering hub and complement our existing office in Portland, Oregon and our Headquarters in New York City.

Chicago is the birthplace of commodities markets. Beginning in the late 19th century, farmers came to the Windy City to sell or lock in prices for their crop. Over the past 150 years, Chicago has grown into a financial powerhouse that is tightly linked to Wall Street and the global financial system at large. This legacy makes it a great home to build the future of money because it has an incredible pool of talented engineers who understand the unique skills and expertise necessary to build best-in class exchange infrastructure that meets the standards established by traditional financial markets.

The Chicago office will help us continue to scale for the future and continue to build on our existing [data centers and direct connectivity](https://www.gemini.com/blog/when-microseconds-matter-powering-gemini-for-highspeed-performance). If you are interested in joining our Chicago office, please email us at [careers@gemini.com](mailto:careers@gemini.com) and look out for openings on our [Careers page](https://gemini.com/careers/).

Since May, we’ve seen bitcoin increase in value and this week it surpassed its 17-month high. Trading volumes across the industry and mainstream interest in cryptocurrency are on the rise. The time has never been more right to double-down on our mission to build safe and reliable institutional-grade infrastructure.

Onward and Upward,

Tyler

Gemini Opens Chicago Office to Meet Growing Institutional Demand

Gemini was built with the simple goal of making it safe and easy to buy, sell, and store cryptocurrency: a first critical step in our mission is **_to build the future of money_**. But we also must foster and encourage novel use cases that are truly native to the world of blockchain or “crypto native.”

We started by bringing U.S. dollars onto the blockchain last September with the launch of the [Gemini dollar](https://www.gemini.com/blog/gemini-launches-the-gemini-dollar-us-dollars-on-the-blockchain), the world’s first regulated stablecoin. We are now adding a new dimension by partnering with Harbor — an all-in-one platform for tokenized securities offerings (e.g., commercial real estate, investment funds, etc.) — to allow users to invest in deals using Gemini dollars and receive any future distributions or dividends of such deals in Gemini dollars.

What does this mean? **_Gemini dollars bring U.S. dollars onto the blockchain and Harbor brings private investments onto the blockchain_**. This combination has the potential to bring unprecedented access, liquidity, and capital formation to private investments and investors that was previously not possible before the technological breakthroughs of cryptocurrency.

The future of money is just getting started, and we look forward to continuing to work and partner with companies that are building crypto native solutions.

Onward and Upward,

Tyler Winklevoss, CEO

The Gemini Blog

Institutional

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