ADGM Square has marked another major milestone in its rise as a global financial centre, with the announcement that the UK’s Crown Agents Bank (CAB) has received an in-principle approval (IPA) from the Abu Dhabi Global Market’s Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA). The approval paves the way for CAB’s newly formed entity, CAB Global Markets, to begin the process of securing a full operational licence within the international financial hub.
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A Strategic Expansion into ADGM Square
The new subsidiary aims to obtain a Category 2 Financial Services Permission, enabling it to offer an extensive range of institutional banking and financial solutions. This includes foreign exchange services, cross-border payments, liquidity solutions, treasury offerings, and trade finance tailored to central banks, sovereign entities, development organisations, and financial institutions.
For Crown Agents Bank a 190-year-old institution with deep roots in serving emerging markets establishing a presence in ADGM Square is a strategic step toward broadening its reach across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. The bank emphasised that Abu Dhabi offers a strong regulatory foundation, global connectivity, and stability that align with its long-term expansion goals.
Why ADGM Square? A Globally Trusted Financial Hub
The choice of ADGM Square reinforces the district’s standing as one of the world’s most advanced and forward-thinking financial zones. The jurisdiction’s English common-law framework, progressive regulations, and emphasis on investor protection give global firms confidence to enter the region.
In recent years, ADGM Square has attracted a wave of international banks, asset managers, fintech innovators, and digital asset companies all drawn by its transparent rules, world-class governance, and growing economic influence. CAB’s entry adds further depth to this ecosystem, strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a bridge between established global markets and fast-growing economies.
Boosting Financial Infrastructure for Emerging Markets
CAB Global Markets’ presence in ADGM Square is expected to significantly enhance the region’s financial infrastructure. The bank is known for its expertise in delivering institutional solutions in frontier and emerging markets, particularly across Africa and Asia. Its expansion into Abu Dhabi will:
- Improve FX and liquidity access for regional partners
- Strengthen corridors for cross-border payments
- Enhance trade finance support for developing nations
- Enable more efficient financial flows for government and institutional clients
These capabilities align with Abu Dhabi’s wider objective of creating a resilient and globally connected financial platform that supports sustainable economic development across continents.
Strengthening Abu Dhabi’s Global Financial Ambitions
The approval of CAB Global Markets showcases how ADGM Square continues to attract credible, well-established financial institutions committed to responsible innovation and international best practices. As the financial district grows with expanded real estate, increased licensing activity, and deeper digital infrastructure it reinforces Abu Dhabi’s ambition to be among the world’s most influential financial centres.
With the IPA now granted, Crown Agents Bank will move forward with meeting FSRA requirements to obtain its full licence, expected to unlock significant new opportunities for regional cooperation and financial advancement.
