Binance has significantly expanded its operations in the region by receiving full regulatory approval under Abu Dhabi Global Markets (ADGM), which operates as Abu Dhabi’s financial free zone.
The Abu Dhabi Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) has granted licenses to three Binance-affiliated entities for exchange operation, clearing services, and brokerage activities.
This new structure is seen as a model that mirrors the functioning of traditional financial markets, adapted to the crypto asset ecosystem. Binance's ADGM structure has been organized into three separate companies under the “Nest” brand, in line with local regulations. This allows the FSRA to oversee each function separately.
Nest Exchange received a Recognized Investment Exchange license to offer spot and derivatives trading services. Nest Clearing and Custody was authorized as a Recognized Clearing Institution for clearing, custody, and central depository services. Nest Trading received a broker-dealer license covering over-the-counter (OTC) and over-the-counter (OTC) transactions.
While structured under the Nest brand, all three entities will operate under Binance's control and form the licensed infrastructure for Binance.com's Abu Dhabi operations. This model provides a framework aligned with the increasingly demanding market structure standards for global exchanges.
Binance co-CEO Richard Teng emphasized that this move “demonstrates their commitment to compliance, transparency, and user protection.” ADGM Chairman Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi stated that Binance's arrival in the region solidifies Abu Dhabi's position as a leading hub for innovation and the future of finance.