UPDATE: In a groundbreaking announcement, the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has secured commitments from 11 major global financial institutions, collectively managing over USD 9 trillion in assets. This significant milestone was revealed during the fourth and largest edition of Abu Dhabi Finance Week (ADFW), underscoring the city’s burgeoning status as a leading financial hub.
This remarkable increase from USD 635 billion last year and USD 450 billion in 2023 marks one of the most significant expansions for any international financial center in recent years. The surge in assets signifies a paradigm shift in Abu Dhabi’s role within the global financial ecosystem, reinforcing its position as the “Capital of Capital.”
The announcements made on December 18, 2025, highlight ADGM’s commitment to fostering a world-class regulatory environment that attracts top-tier institutions. The new entrants include Cantor Fitzgerald, UBS Group, KKR, DWS, and many more, illustrating the growing influence of Abu Dhabi’s financial landscape.
H.E. Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADGM, stated,
“The commitments announced during ADFW underscore Abu Dhabi’s rising influence at the center of global capital flows. The addition of global firms managing more than USD 9 trillion in assets is a clear signal of trust in Abu Dhabi’s world-class IFC.”
In a historic move for digital assets, Binance became the first crypto exchange to secure a comprehensive global license from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of ADGM during ADFW. This transformative event positions ADGM as a leader in the evolving regulatory landscape for digital currencies.
Richard Teng, Co-CEO of Binance, remarked,
“This milestone reflects our compliance-first philosophy and our commitment to the long-term growth of the crypto ecosystem. Our partnership with ADGM reinforces our belief in responsible innovation and sustainable industry growth.”
The expansion of ADGM is not limited to traditional finance. Other entities, including iCapital and JPMorgan, are establishing or expanding their operations in Abu Dhabi, further solidifying the centre’s status as a key player in the financial services sector. JPMorgan plans to enhance its payments and treasury services, offering a range of solutions to clients across the region.
As ADGM embarks on its next decade, it aims to elevate its market capabilities and expand its financial architecture, focusing on digital assets, sustainable finance, and advanced private wealth services. This strategic vision is underpinned by a progressive regulatory framework aligned with the highest global standards.
Officials encourage stakeholders and industry leaders to take note of the profound implications these developments carry for the future of global finance. As Abu Dhabi continues to strengthen its position, the implications for capital allocation and long-term value creation are profound.
The global financial landscape is watching closely as ADGM sets new benchmarks in financial services. Expect continued updates as these developments unfold and reshape the future of finance.
