TLDRGemini establishes a new entity registered with AUSTRAC in Australia.The exchange aims to expand its services and build a local team.James Logan is appointed to lead Gemini’s Australian operations.Gemini plans to offer crypto staking and credit card services.The company is seeking an Australian Financial Services License.Gemini has established a new Australian entity to expand its services, signaling confidence in the local crypto market. The exchange will now operate under Gemini Intergalactic Australia, registered with AUSTRAC to access local payment systems. Gemini plans to expand its offerings while monitoring upcoming regulations through government consultation.Gemini Launches Local Arm in AustraliaGemini has been operating in Australia since 2019, leveraging its global structure to offer limited services and high-cost payment methods. Now, the exchange can leverage its AUSTRAC registration to integrate Australian financial systems more efficiently. This shift allows Gemini to expand its services and customer engagement without legal restrictions.“We’re changing that because we think Australia is a market that we want to be in,” said Saad Ahmed, head of Asia Pacific. The newly formed Gemini Intergalactic Australia enables local marketing, payment processing, and service delivery in compliance with regulatory requirements. The company aims to grow its customer base through streamlined operations and improved offerings.Gemini has based its Australian headquarters in Sydney, reflecting its long-term commitment to the market. The company appointed James Logan, an industry veteran, to lead its local team. Logan previously managed regional operations at Luno and Bitget, bringing relevant experience.Product Expansion Planned, Licensing in ProgressGemini confirmed that it seeks an Australian Financial Services License (AFSL) to offer a broader suite of services. These may include crypto staking products and credit card offerings, which are currently available in the U.S. market. However, the company intends to roll out services gradually to match local demand and compliance.Ahmed emphasized that Gemini will not offer all U.S.-based services immediately. “We’re not going to have all the products that we offer in the US,” he explained. Still, the company remains focused on launching those services as regulatory conditions become clearer.The local launch allows Gemini to invest in infrastructure and hire Australian staff. With a robust product roadmap, Gemini is positioning itself as a competitive player in Australia’s rapidly growing cryptocurrency space. Current efforts focus on building trust and offering useful financial tools to crypto users.Regulatory Approach Remains ObservationalGemini is monitoring recent legislative moves in Australia without rushing to respond. The Albanese government released draft rules that propose requiring crypto firms to obtain an AFSL. While some industry players responded, Gemini prefers to watch how the framework develops.“There’s going to be some back and forth between the industry and the government,” said Ahmed, noting Gemini’s intent to observe first. He clarified, “There’s limited upside for us to respond to the laws that have come out.” Instead, Gemini aims to ensure its local growth aligns with eventual regulatory requirements.Ahmed stated that Gemini will remain ready to comply with any new standards that emerge. “We’re confident that whatever regulation comes into effect, we’ll be well prepared for it,” he said. This measured approach allows Gemini to build sustainably while staying aligned with legal expectations.The post Gemini Expands in Australia, Registers Local Entity with AUSTRAC appeared first on Blockonomi.