CAB Global Markets Secures ADGM Category 2 Licence to Expand Cross-Border Financial Services
Abu Dhabi, UAE – January 30, 2026 – CAB Global Markets (CAB GM), the Middle Eastern subsidiary of Crown Agents Bank, announced it has secured a Category 2 Financial Services Permission from Abu Dhabi Global Market’s (ADGM) Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA). The licence enables the firm to provide credit, cross-border payments, foreign exchange transactions, and trade finance services targeting flows across Africa, South Asia, and the Middle East.
Announcement Specifics
The Category 2 licence authorizes CAB GM to serve banks, non-bank financial institutions, international development organizations, and corporates operating in emerging markets. The firm will leverage UK-regulated standards, its existing network spanning 120+ currencies, and API-enabled technology platforms to facilitate fund movements. No transaction volumes or additional regional hub locations were disclosed.
Stakeholder Perspective
“The UAE has rapidly established itself as one of the world’s leading global financial centres. Its geographic position between the world’s fastest-growing economic corridors, its sophisticated regulation, and strong capital markets, make it the ideal strategic location for CAB GM to connect emerging markets with the global economy. The award of our FSP from the FSRA marks an important strategic milestone for our business and we’re grateful for their guidance throughout the licensing process.”
— Arif Khan, Senior Executive Officer at CAB Global Markets
Why it matters: The statement positions ADGM as a strategic regulatory gateway for financial institutions targeting high-growth corridors between Asia, Africa, and the Gulf.
Khan added:
“Through this licence, we will be operating on the ground to unlock opportunities for clients active in the world’s most dynamic markets. Whatever our clients need, this licence enables us to respond with greater speed and agility, delivering solutions that create a truly seamless service experience. We look forward to contributing to the UAE’s thriving financial services ecosystem.”
— Arif Khan, Senior Executive Officer at CAB Global Markets
Why it matters: The emphasis on operational agility signals CAB GM’s intent to compete on execution speed within the UAE’s expanding financial services landscape.
Industry Context
Crown Agents Bank operates with nearly 200 years of institutional heritage connecting hard-to-reach markets. The ADGM licence expands its regulated footprint beyond existing jurisdictions in the UK, Netherlands, and USA into the Gulf region. The UAE continues to position itself as a bridge between global capital markets and emerging economies, with ADGM serving as a principal regulatory hub attracting international financial institutions seeking access to Middle Eastern, African, and South Asian flows.
Conclusion
CAB GM’s ADGM authorization establishes an on-the-ground presence for enhanced client service delivery across emerging markets. The firm is expected to integrate into the UAE’s financial services ecosystem while expanding cross-border transaction capabilities for institutional clients.
Sources: Zawya, London Stock Exchange
