What are the margin trading options on Gemini?

Gemini offers margin trading via ActiveTrader with leverage on major pairs like BTC/USD and ETH/USD, supporting cross and isolated margin modes for eligible users.

Aug 11, 2025 at 06:01 am

Understanding Margin Trading on Gemini

Margin trading allows users to borrow funds to increase their trading position beyond what would be possible with their own capital alone. On Gemini, this functionality is offered through its advanced trading platform, Gemini ActiveTrader. Unlike standard spot trading, margin trading introduces leverage, enabling traders to open larger positions. However, it also increases risk due to the potential for liquidation if the market moves against the position. Gemini ActiveTrader supports margin trading for select cryptocurrency pairs, and users must meet eligibility requirements before accessing these features.

Supported Cryptocurrency Pairs for Margin Trading

Not all trading pairs on Gemini support margin functionality. The platform offers margin trading on specific major cryptocurrency pairs, such as BTC/USD, ETH/USD, and a few other high-liquidity assets. These pairs are carefully selected based on market stability, trading volume, and risk assessment. Before initiating a margin trade, users must verify that their desired pair is enabled for margin on the ActiveTrader interface. This information is typically displayed next to the trading pair or within the account settings under the margin section.

• Check the trading pair details on the Gemini ActiveTrader platform
• Look for a margin indicator or leverage icon next to the pair
• Confirm availability through the “Trading Rules” section in account settings
• Review the maximum allowable leverage for each pair

Types of Margin Accounts on Gemini

Gemini offers two primary types of margin accounts: cross margin and isolated margin. Each has distinct risk and capital allocation characteristics.

• Cross margin uses the entire available balance in the trading account as collateral for all open margin positions. This increases the buffer against liquidation but exposes the full account balance to risk.
• Isolated margin limits the collateral to a specific amount allocated to a single position. This caps potential losses to the designated margin but increases the chance of liquidation if the position moves sharply.

Users can switch between these modes depending on their risk tolerance and trading strategy. The selection is made during the order placement process on the ActiveTrader platform. It is crucial to understand that margin type selection directly impacts liquidation thresholds and capital efficiency.

Setting Up a Margin Trade on Gemini ActiveTrader

Initiating a margin trade on Gemini requires several precise steps. Users must ensure their account is verified, funded, and eligible for margin trading. The following steps outline the process:

• Log in to your Gemini account and navigate to Gemini ActiveTrader
• Select the desired trading pair that supports margin (e.g., BTC/USD)
• Switch the order type to margin using the toggle or dropdown menu
• Choose between buy (long) or sell (short) based on market outlook
• Enter the order size and select the leverage level (e.g., 2x, 3x, up to the maximum allowed)
• Decide between cross or isolated margin mode
• Set stop-loss and take-profit levels to manage risk
• Review the estimated liquidation price displayed on the interface
• Confirm and place the order

After placement, the borrowed funds are automatically reflected in the position, and interest begins accruing on the borrowed amount. The liquidation price is prominently displayed and updates in real time based on market movement.

Interest Rates and Fees for Margin Positions

When trading on margin, users are charged interest on the borrowed funds. Gemini applies a variable interest rate that fluctuates based on market demand and supply for the specific asset. Rates are calculated on a per-second basis and billed hourly. Users can view the current rate before opening a position.

• Interest is only charged on the borrowed portion, not the entire position
• Rates vary by asset and can change without prior notice
• Long positions may have different rates than short positions
• Interest is deducted directly from the margin account balance

Fees for closing margin positions align with standard trading fees on Gemini, which are based on a maker-taker model. High-volume traders may qualify for reduced fees. It is essential to monitor the accrued interest in the account dashboard to avoid unexpected reductions in equity.

Risk Management and Liquidation Mechanics

Margin trading carries significant risk, and liquidation occurs when the position value drops below the required maintenance margin. Gemini uses a tiered system to determine maintenance requirements based on position size and leverage.

• The platform issues margin calls when equity approaches the maintenance threshold
• Users can add more collateral to avoid liquidation
• If the position is liquidated, the system automatically closes it at the current market price
• A liquidation fee may be applied to cover operational costs

The liquidation engine on Gemini is designed to minimize slippage and execute closures efficiently. Traders should use stop-loss orders and closely monitor their positions, especially during high-volatility periods. Real-time risk metrics, including maintenance margin ratio and unrealized P&L, are available on the ActiveTrader interface.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I trade margin on the Gemini mobile app?
Yes, margin trading is supported on the Gemini mobile app, but only through the ActiveTrader interface. Users must enable ActiveTrader in the app settings and ensure their device is running the latest version. The mobile experience mirrors the desktop platform, including leverage selection and margin mode options.

What happens if I don’t repay my margin loan?

Gemini automatically manages repayment through position closure. If a position is liquidated or manually closed, the borrowed amount plus accrued interest is deducted from the resulting proceeds. There is no manual repayment process—funds are settled automatically upon exit.

Is there a minimum account balance to use margin trading on Gemini?

Gemini does not publish a fixed minimum balance, but users must have sufficient equity to meet initial margin requirements for their chosen position. Small trades may not be executable if the balance falls below the threshold needed for leverage and fees.

How does Gemini determine my eligibility for margin trading?

Eligibility is based on account verification level, trading history, jurisdiction, and completion of Gemini’s margin trading agreement. U.S. residents must also comply with regulatory requirements. Users can check eligibility status in the ActiveTrader section under account permissions.