Binance, the leading cryptocurrency platform, has secured three distinct licenses from Abu Dhabi’s financial authority, allowing it to operate its exchange, clearing house, and broker-dealer services under the framework of the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA).
The FSRA, which operates independently within the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), a financial free zone, has granted licenses to Binance’s Nest Exchange Limited, Nest Clearing and Custody Limited, and Nest Trading Limited, as stated in a news release and announcement from Binance on Monday.
Richard Teng, Binance’s co-CEO, remarked that these licenses bring regulatory clarity and credibility, allowing Binance to manage its global operations from ADGM.
“Even though our global operations are distributed, utilizing talent and innovation across the globe, this regulatory framework ensures our users can trust that Binance operates under a recognized, top-tier standard,” he stated.
“We appreciate the FSRA’s progressive approach, which protects users while promoting innovation.”
Binance might establish operations in Abu Dhabi
Binance lacks an official corporate headquarters, which influences its tax obligations and regulatory requirements.
Cointelegraph has reached out to Binance for further comments.
Related: Former Binance US CEO launches stablecoin platform ahead of L1 network.
According to a guidance issued in February 2020, the FSRA states that authorized entities conducting regulated operations within the ADGM must have “mind and management” based in the zone, dedicating resources to commercial, governance, compliance, surveillance, operations, technical, IT, and HR functions.
By operating under the ADGM’s financial services framework, Binance users benefit from enhanced consumer protections and greater regulatory oversight, as per Binance. The exchange intends to commence its “regulated activities” on January 5, 2026.
Teng noted in a post on X that this is a “key milestone for Binance,” marking its achievement as the first global exchange to obtain regulatory approval from a reputable authority, with its international operations and liquidity now subject to thorough supervision.
Binance already maintains a presence in the UAE, having acquired its virtual asset service provider license in Dubai, which it secured in April 2024, alongside a $2 billion investment from MGX, an Abu Dhabi-based technology and artificial intelligence venture firm, in March.
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