Binance Receives Full Regulatory Authorization in Abu Dhabi

Binance has secured comprehensive regulatory approval from Abu Dhabi's Financial Services Regulatory Authority (ADGM FSRA) to operate its global platform, the company announced Sunday.

The authorization from the ADGM FSRA will see Binance restructure its operations through three separate licensed entities beginning January 5, 2026, according to the anonouncement. Each entity will handle distinct aspects of the platform's services under what Binance describes as an internationally recognized regulatory framework.

Nest Exchange Services Limited will function as a recognized investment exchange, managing spot and derivatives trading activities. Nest Clearing and Custody Limited will operate as a recognized clearing house, serving as central counterparty for derivative trades and holding custody of user digital assets. Nest Trading Limited will act as a broker-dealer for off-exchange services including OTC trading and other principal-based products.

"This license provides regulatory clarity and legitimacy, enabling Binance to support its global operations from ADGM. While our global operations remain distributed, leveraging talent and innovation worldwide, this regulatory foundation offers our users peace of mind knowing Binance operates under a globally recognised, gold standard framework," Richard Teng, co-CEO of Binance said in the announcement.

The structural separation mirrors traditional financial market architecture, according to Binance, with each entity operating under specific regulatory permissions designed to enhance oversight and risk management.

Under the transition, contractual relationships with users will shift from Nest Services Limited to the three new entities through an automatic novation process outlined in existing terms of service. Users will maintain access through current login credentials, with balances and trading functionality continuing uninterrupted.

Binance characterized the regulatory milestone as part of its commitment to building a transparent and resilient digital asset platform. The company has updated its terms of use and privacy notice to reflect the new structure, with documents available for user review ahead of the January implementation date.