Binance has reached a major regulatory milestone after securing full authorization from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). The approval enables the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange to operate its global platform, Binance.com, within ADGM’s regulatory framework. The development underscores Abu Dhabi’s growing role in regulated digital asset markets and marks a significant step in Binance’s compliance strategy.
A New Phase of Regulatory Alignment
Operating under ADGM’s regulatory regime provides Binance with a clear and structured framework for delivering regulated digital asset services. The authorization reflects Binance’s efforts to meet internationally recognized standards for governance, risk management, and consumer protection. For Binance’s more than 300 million registered users, the approval supports the company’s objective of offering services within well-defined regulatory environments.
A Three-Entity Market Infrastructure Model
To comply with ADGM’s regulatory requirements, Binance has been authorized to operate through a three-entity structure designed to mirror traditional financial market infrastructure. Nest Services Limited, soon to be renamed Nest Exchange Limited, has been approved as a Recognised Investment Exchange, with permission to operate a Multilateral Trading Facility supporting spot and derivatives trading.
Nest Clearing and Custody Limited has been authorized as a Recognized Clearing House, with additional permissions to provide clearing, settlement, custody, and central securities depository services for digital assets. The third entity, BCI Limited, soon to be renamed Nest Trading Limited, has been approved as a Broker-Dealer, supporting off-exchange activities including OTC trading, asset management, custody, and conversion services.
This structure separates exchange, clearing, custody, and brokerage functions to strengthen risk controls, enhance transparency, and ensure each activity operates under direct regulatory supervision.
Leadership Commentary on the Approval
Richard Teng, Co-CEO of Binance, stated that the FSRA authorization reflects the company’s commitment to compliance and user protection. He noted that operating under ADGM’s regulatory framework provides regulatory clarity and supports Binance’s long-term strategy to build trusted and sustainable digital asset infrastructure.
Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADGM, welcomed Binance to the international financial center, highlighting that the approval reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for financial innovation. He emphasized ADGM’s role in enabling responsible growth within the digital asset sector through clear and robust regulation.
Implications for Abu Dhabi and Global Digital Markets
The authorization further strengthens the UAE’s position in the global digital finance landscape by providing a regulated pathway for large-scale digital asset platforms. Subject to final operational preparations, Binance expects to commence regulated activities under the ADGM framework on January 5, 2026.
The approval provides Binance with a regulated foundation to support its future growth while reinforcing regulatory oversight across its exchange, clearing, custody, and brokerage operations. The collaboration between Binance and ADGM reflects a broader shift toward regulated digital asset markets built on transparency, institutional-grade controls, and global regulatory engagement.