Gemini
Qualified Custodian
Established Est. 2014
United States
21Rates Quality Score: 7.9/10
Gemini, founded 2014 by the Winklevoss twins, is a NYDFS-regulated exchange and custodian offering trading, staking, and custody for 150+ assets. Custodian for multiple U.S. and Canadian Bitcoin ETFs.
Custody Model
ModelHosted Custody
LicensesNYDFS-chartered limited purpose trust company
RegulatoryNYDFS banking regulations, BSA/AML, OFAC
JurisdictionUnited States (NYDFS-regulated)
Fees & Minimums
Fee Structure0.04-0.10% annual custody fee. $200K minimum AUM. Includes SOC 2 compliance and $200M insurance pool.
Min Balance$200,000 for custody
WithdrawalsCustom institutional limits
Security
Cold Storage95%+ cold storage
Insurance$200M+ insurance pool via Nakamoto Ltd (captive insurer)
Proof of Reserves No
Asset SegregationYes
AuditsAnnual SOC 2, regular NYDFS examinations
Features
API Access Not available
Mobile App Yes
Hardware Wallet Not supported
Institutional Available
Integrated Trading Yes
AssetsBTC, ETH, SOL, DOGE, LTC, 100+ digital assets
Frequently Asked Questions About Gemini
Gemini is a qualified custodian, meaning it is a regulated financial institution authorised to hold client assets. This is important for institutional investors who are legally required to use a qualified custodian under regulations such as the SEC Custody Rule.
Gemini carries the following insurance coverage: $200M+ insurance pool via Nakamoto Ltd (captive insurer). Always confirm specific coverage terms, limits, and exclusions directly with Gemini before depositing assets.
Gemini stores 95%+ cold storage of assets in cold storage (offline). Cold storage protects against remote hacking by keeping private keys disconnected from the internet.
Gemini's fee structure: 0.04-0.10% annual custody fee. $200K minimum AUM. Includes SOC 2 compliance and $200M insurance pool.. Custody fees are typically charged as an annual basis-point fee on assets under custody or a flat monthly fee.
The minimum balance requirement at Gemini is $200,000 for custody. This may vary based on account type and service tier.
About this analysis
21Rates Editorial TeamBitcoin Financial Research Analysts
Our research team analyses Bitcoin custody providers using proprietary quality scoring, regulatory research, and user reviews. We independently verify custody terms and maintain up-to-date information to help you make informed decisions.
Last verified: August 2026