Binance Expands in Abu Dhabi with New ADGM Global License
- Binance secures full ADGM approval, moving its global operations under a regulated structure.
- The exchange will shift all user agreements to three new ADGM-licensed entities in January 2026.
- The framework mirrors traditional finance and strengthens oversight, custody, and risk controls.
Binance has secured full regulatory approval from Abu Dhabi Global Market’s FSRA, marking a major shift toward traditional financial oversight for its global operations. The approval gives Binance a new structure that mirrors established market infrastructure and sets the stage for a regulated platform rollout in January 2026.
Binance confirmed the approval after years of seeking stronger international compliance. The exchange said the authorization reflects its long-term plan to operate under clear rules that match global standards. The ADGM license also signals Abu Dhabi’s growing role in the digital-asset economy.
The new framework introduces three ADGM-regulated entities that will manage all Binance services. Each entity will handle specific functions under strict regulatory permissions. Binance said the new model increases oversight, defines operational duties, and improves user protections.
Nest Exchange Services Limited will run all exchange activities. It will oversee spot markets, derivatives, and order matching. The firm will operate as a recognized investment exchange with approval to run a multilateral trading facility.
Nest Clearing and Custody Limited will handle clearing and settlement. It will act as the central counterparty for on-exchange derivative positions. It will also manage custody for users’ digital assets, creating a separate layer of risk control.
Nest Trading Limited will run Binance’s off-exchange operations. It will manage OTC trading, Convert, and Earn activities. The division will operate under broker-dealer permissions and handle principal-based services.
Binance said the framework resembles traditional financial structures used by global exchanges. The separation of roles supports transparency, strengthens internal controls, and provides regulators with clearer lines of supervision.
New User Agreements and Structural Changes Begin in 2026
The transition takes effect on January 5, 2026. Binance said all user agreements will shift to the three ADGM entities on that date. The move will follow a novation clause already included in Binance’s Terms of Use. The update will keep user relationships intact but place each service under the correct licensed entity.
Product-specific terms will change as well. Binance said new documents will identify the responsible service provider for each feature. The exchange plans to update disclosures before the transition begins.
The ADGM approval also changes Binance’s data-management structure. Each entity will act as a data controller for the services it provides. Binance said this shift gives users clearer lines of accountability.
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Clearing procedures will also change. Open derivative positions will move to Nest Clearing and Custody Limited on January 5. The clearinghouse will manage margin, defaults, and settlement. It will also safeguard users’ digital assets under its custody mandate.
Binance described the transition as a major step toward building long-term stability for the platform. Co-CEO Richard Teng said the FSRA framework demonstrates Binance’s commitment to governance and user protection.
ADGM chairman Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi said Binance’s presence strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position in global finance. He said the region continues to attract major firms building regulated digital-asset ecosystems.
The approval marks one of Binance’s most significant regulatory milestones to date. It also positions Abu Dhabi as a central hub for digital-asset infrastructure at a time when global rules continue to evolve. Binance said the new structure will anchor its global operations and define how its platform operates in the years ahead.
