Gemini

Gemini is a Bitcoin company in the Exchanges category, founded in 2014 by Cameron Winklevoss, Tyler Winklevoss.

The Idea

A regulated, compliance-first Bitcoin exchange. The twins used part of their $65M Facebook settlement to buy $11M in Bitcoin in 2013, then built Gemini as the 'adult in the room' for serious Bitcoin investors, while also releasing the Gemini credit card, which offers Bitcoin rewards on purchases.

Early Traction

The Winklevoss twins filed the first-ever Bitcoin ETF application with the SEC in 2013. While it was rejected, it kicked off a decade-long fight that ultimately led to spot ETF approval in 2024.

Peak Stats

One of the first fully regulated US exchanges, chartered by NYDFS in 2015. IPO'd on the Nasdaq in September 2025 under ticker GEMI at $28 a share, raising $425M at a $3.3B valuation, and manages more than $18B in customer assets.

Status Today

Active and publicly traded. The twins also backed BitInstant in 2012 (Shrem's company), making their arc one of the most complete in Bitcoin history, from early angel investor to exchange operator to public company.