Nikolas Sargeant
Binance has expanded its regulatory presence in the Middle East after securing three new licences in Abu Dhabi, marking a significant step in the exchange’s push to rebuild trust and cement its position in global crypto markets. The approvals, granted by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), give Binance.com formal permission to operate exchange, clearing and brokerage functions through a newly structured group of regulated entities.
Binance Strengthens Global Operations Through ADGM Framework
Under the new framework, Nest Services Limited will be renamed Nest Exchange Limited and act as a recognized investment exchange running Binance’s multilateral trading facility for spot and derivatives markets. Nest Clearing and Custody Limited has been approved as a recognized clearing house with custody and depository permissions, taking responsibility for settlement and safekeeping of digital assets. A third entity, BCI Limited — soon to be Nest Trading Limited — will operate as a licensed broker dealer handling investment arrangements, asset management and over-the-counter services.
Binance calls the package a global first for its main platform, arguing that the Abu Dhabi licences give it clearer pathways into international markets and stronger credibility with institutions wary of loosely regulated exchanges. Co-chief executive Richard Teng said the approvals reflect a commitment to transparency and user protection while allowing the firm to maintain a distributed operating model.
Abu Dhabi Deepens Its Role as a Digital Asset Hub
For Abu Dhabi, the deal supports a wider strategy to transform its sovereign wealth and financial ecosystem into long-term crypto and fintech exposure. Investment arms linked to Mubadala have increased their digital-asset allocations, including a sizable position in BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust. Binance also secured a $2b investment from MGX, chaired by Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, strengthening ties between the exchange and the emirate’s financial leadership.
The licences arrive after a turbulent period for Binance, including a $4.3b US settlement and the departure of founder Changpeng Zhao. With new approvals, rising institutional interest and a refreshed leadership team that now includes co-founder Yi He as co-CEO, Binance is positioning Abu Dhabi as a potential long-term operational base as it works toward its goal of serving 1 billion users worldwide.
