Abu Dhabi Global Market’s Financial Services Regulatory Authority has formally authorized Binance’s global platform under its comprehensive regulatory framework, in a landmark approval announced on December 8, 2025. The approval covers three separate ADGM-regulated entities: Nest Services Limited as a Recognised Investment Exchange, Nest Clearing and Custody Limited as a Recognised Clearing House, and BCI Limited as a Broker-Dealer. This structure ensures that on-exchange trading, clearing, custody and over-the-counter services operate with clear, high-standard oversight within ADGM.
The RIE designation permits Nest Services to manage spot and derivatives trading, while Nest Clearing and Custody will handle settlement and safekeeping of digital assets. The Broker-Dealer entity will oversee OTC transactions, principal trading and custody arrangements, offering institutional and retail clients a regulated pathway for crypto operations. Each entity received permissions aligned with international best practices for governance, risk management and client protection.
Binance’s co-chief executive Richard Teng emphasized that the ADGM approval underscores the exchange’s commitment to compliance and user safeguarding. “This licence provides regulatory clarity and legitimacy, enabling Binance to support its global operations from ADGM,” said Teng. The approval follows recent FSRA amendments aimed at streamlining digital asset token admission and adjusting capital requirements, reflecting ADGM’s ambition to become a premier hub for digital finance innovation.
Operational preparations are underway for Binance.com to commence regulated activities in ADGM from January 5, 2026. With over 300 million users and unprecedented trading volumes, Binance plans to leverage the ADGM license to enhance institutional onboarding, expand product offerings, and maintain transparent reporting of reserve holdings and operational metrics. ADGM Chairman Ahmed Al Zaabi noted that hosting Binance reinforces Abu Dhabi’s status as a global financial centre prioritizing innovation, sustainable growth and robust regulatory frameworks.
Market analysts view this approval as a strategic victory for Binance amid global regulatory scrutiny of crypto exchanges. By aligning with one of the world’s most respected financial regulators, Binance aims to mitigate jurisdictional ambiguities and strengthen trust among corporate, institutional and retail participants. The ADGM framework’s comprehensive oversight is expected to facilitate cross-border activity, attract deeper liquidity and accelerate institutional adoption of digital assets under a clear compliance regime.
The development marks a new chapter in global crypto regulation, demonstrating that well-capitalized and governance-focused market participants can secure gold-standard licences. It also highlights the growing role of Middle Eastern financial centres in bridging traditional markets and emerging digital asset ecosystems, as authorities worldwide seek balanced approaches to foster innovation while upholding market integrity and consumer protection.
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