Crypto exchange Gemini has introduced a tokenized version of MicroStrategy's (MSTR) stock for users in the European Union, enabling on-chain investment in the Bitcoin-focused company. This launch marks the beginning of Gemini's rollout of tokenized U.S. equities on blockchain networks. Enabled through a partnership with tokenization platform Dinari, Gemini users can buy fractional shares of MSTR as on-chain tokens backed by real securities.
The MSTR tokens are initially available on the Arbitrum (ARB) network, with plans to expand to additional blockchain networks soon. Gemini emphasizes that tokenized stocks grant investors the same economic rights as the underlying shares where permitted, while providing benefits including fractional ownership, reduced transaction friction, and direct on-chain settlement. This move aims to democratize access to U.S. stocks by combining traditional equities with the 24/7 liquidity and accessibility of crypto markets.
Tokenized stocks solve traditional market restrictions such as limited trading hours, high fees for international investors, and restricted regional access by offering on-chain stock trading that is frictionless and open worldwide to anyone with internet access. Gemini plans to add more tokenized stocks and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in the coming days, positioning itself as a leading platform in exporting U.S. equities globally through blockchain technology.
This development also reflects growing interest among crypto platforms in bringing tokenized U.S. equities to the European market. Competitors like Robinhood, Kraken, and Coinbase are similarly pursuing tokenized stocks, with Coinbase currently seeking SEC approval for such offerings in the U.S.
The launch occurs against a backdrop of rising institutional interest in digital asset rails for traditional securities and aims to modernize financial infrastructure by integrating blockchain with conventional assets.