Binance secures first global crypto licence under Abu Dhabi’s ADGM framework

Binance has become the first cryptocurrency exchange to secure a global regulatory licence under the framework of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), marking a milestone in digital asset oversight.

The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of ADGM has approved the authorisation of the global platform, Binance.com, under its regulatory regime, the exchange said on Monday.

Binance gains Abu Dhabi regulatory nod

The approval covers Binance’s operations through three regulated entities based in Abu Dhabi, spanning exchange services, clearing and custody, and broker-dealer activities.

Nest Services Limited, to be renamed Nest Exchange Limited, has been approved as a recognised investment exchange and will operate a multilateral trading facility responsible for on-exchange trading, including spot and derivatives.

Nest Clearing and Custody Limited has been authorised as a recognised clearing house with additional permissions to provide custody and central securities depository services. The entity will manage clearing, settlement and custody of digital assets.

BCI Limited, to be renamed Nest Trading Limited, has been approved as a broker-dealer with permissions to deal in investments, arrange transactions, manage assets, provide custody and offer money services. It will deliver off-exchange services, including over-the-counter trading and conversion services.

Richard Teng, co-chief executive officer of Binance, said the licence reflected the group’s focus on compliance, transparency and user protection.

“This licence provides regulatory clarity and legitimacy, enabling Binance to support its global operations from ADGM,” Teng said.

Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, chairman of ADGM, said the approval underscored Abu Dhabi’s role as a hub for financial innovation and digital assets.

With more than 300 million registered users globally and over $125 trillion in cumulative trading volume, Binance is the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by users and trading activity.

Subject to final operational preparations, the platform is expected to begin operating its ADGM-regulated activities on Jan 5, 2026.