Gemini Launches Self-Custody Wallet and Onchain Trading Portal to Expand Crypto Access

Gemini, a prominent cryptocurrency exchange founded by Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, has unveiled a self-custody wallet and an onchain trading portal, marking a significant step toward broadening its decentralized finance (DeFi) offerings. This launch aligns with the company’s strategic push to diversify its services following a confidential filing for an initial public offering in June.

The Gemini Wallet and Onchain Dashboard aim to simplify user access to Web3 ecosystems, providing a seamless and secure way to engage with decentralized applications and trading opportunities. This move positions Gemini to compete more effectively in a market dominated by larger exchanges like Coinbase and Binance.

Key Features and Strategic Importance

The Gemini Wallet introduces a user-friendly approach to self-custody, eliminating traditional barriers like complex recovery phrases by leveraging passkey-based onboarding. This feature allows users to access their wallet with biometric authentication, such as fingerprints or facial scans, making it easier for newcomers to enter the crypto space. The wallet’s dual functionality as both an embedded tool within decentralized applications and a portable wallet offers flexibility for users to manage assets across multiple platforms. By integrating with the Gemini Onchain Dashboard, accessible at onchain.gemini.com, users can trade tokens not listed on the exchange, explore decentralized apps, and invest in yield-generating vaults where permitted by local regulations.

To encourage adoption, Gemini is sponsoring gas fees for early users and providing free Ethereum Name Service (ENS) subdomains, such as satoshi.gemini.eth, in partnership with networks like Arbitrum, Polygon, Optimism, and Base. This initiative reduces the cost of onchain activities, making the wallet more accessible to beginners. Additionally, partnerships with Blockaid for security, WalletConnect for seamless app integration, Bungee for cross-chain swaps, and Morpho for DeFi yield opportunities enhance the wallet’s functionality. These collaborations ensure robust protection against fraud, easy access to Web3 ecosystems, and the ability to earn returns on assets without locking funds.

The Onchain Dashboard further enhances Gemini’s ecosystem by offering a transparent interface for managing crypto holdings. Users can monitor their assets in real time, discover new decentralized applications, and engage in token swaps across supported networks. The dashboard’s integration with Morpho’s Gauntlet vaults on Arbitrum allows users to earn instant rewards on stablecoin and crypto deposits, with the flexibility to withdraw at any time. This focus on user control and accessibility aligns with Gemini’s broader goal of making DeFi more approachable while maintaining high security standards.

Gemini’s strategic partnerships play a critical role in the wallet’s appeal. Blockaid’s end-to-end security screening protects users from malicious smart contracts and scams, while WalletConnect ensures compatibility with over 70,000 onchain apps. Bungee’s integration facilitates efficient cross-chain swaps, and network partners like Arbitrum and Polygon help maintain low transaction fees during the initial rollout. These features collectively position the Gemini Wallet as a versatile tool for both retail investors and developers seeking to embed wallet functionality into their applications.

The launch follows Gemini’s recent moves to strengthen its market presence, including its entry into tokenized stocks for EU customers. With plans to connect the wallet directly to Gemini exchange accounts later in 2025, the company aims to create a fully integrated custody and trading experience. This development reflects Gemini’s commitment to evolving alongside the crypto ecosystem, which has seen significant adoption driven by stablecoins, DeFi, and decentralized exchanges. By offering a secure, user-centric wallet and trading portal, Gemini is well-positioned to attract a new wave of crypto users while enhancing its competitive edge in the rapidly growing DeFi space.