Prominent cryptocurrency exchanges like Crypto.com and Binance have been looking to set up operations in the friendly Dubai cryptocurrency market.
Crypto.com Gets Provisional Approval
Singapore-based cryptocurrency exchange Crypto.com has set its sights on the lucrative Dubai market. After appealing to the Dubai regulator responsible for virtual asset licenses, the exchange was able to obtain a provisional approval, the Virtual Assets MVP License, to provide crypto services in the city. The exchange announced the news on Thursday, revealing that it would receive the full operating license once VARA conducts and completes due diligence and other mandatory compliance requirements.
Crypto.com Co-Founder and CEO Kris Marszalek said:
“We are excited to offer more of our products and services in a market that is critical to our business and equally committed to regulation and compliance. We look forward to working with regulators across the region to further expand Crypto.com’s offering and market presence.”
The regulatory body in question is the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), which was created earlier this year to oversee and facilitate the growth of the cryptocurrency industry in Dubai. VARA manages the operations of various crypto platforms for a secure investment environment, much needed for a thriving industry.
Crypto.com starts operations in Dubai
Approval means that the exchange has completed an initial level of compliance checks to the satisfaction of the regulatory body. Therefore, Crypto.com will now be able to offer all its products and services to those interested in Dubai. However, the supervisory body will be attentive to all procedures to guarantee maximum protection for investors.
Foreign Trade Minister Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi commented on the news and said:
“The United Arab Emirates is focused on developing a world-leading environment for innovative technology and collaboration, and we believe that cryptocurrencies, virtual assets and blockchain will revolutionize the financial services industry. Through our Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority and other key initiatives, we are attracting businesses to the UAE to build on this vision and enable the technologies of the future to flourish here.”
Binance moves in Dubai
Crypto.com will face fierce competition in Dubai as another major cryptocurrency exchange has also applied for the VARA operating license. Binance Holdings Ltd., which operates the largest exchange in the cryptocurrency industry by trading volume, has already signed an agreement with the Dubai World Trade Center (DWTC) to work together on establishing the latter as a global hub for digital assets. Reports also stated that Binance is seeking accreditation to begin providing crypto services on the DWTC, which has been declared a “free zone” for cryptocurrency and blockchain technology.
Meanwhile, another global cryptocurrency company, FTX, has been exploring a completely different market. It recently announced the launch of FTX Japan to tap into the growing Japanese market despite strict crypto regulations in the Asian country.