Capital.com, a trading platform and contracts for difference (CFD) broker, is preparing to introduce spot cryptocurrency services to clients in the United Arab Emirates. This move comes after its affiliate, Capital Vault, received a virtual asset license from the UAE Capital Market Authority (CMA).
Virtual asset license granted
With the new license, Capital Vault is authorized to act as an agent or matching principal in virtual asset transactions and to provide custody services for customers in the UAE. This development will allow local clients to purchase and hold actual cryptocurrencies directly through the Capital.com app.
Unlike Capital.com’s existing CFD offerings, which give users exposure to the price movements of cryptocurrencies without conferring asset ownership, the upcoming spot trading service enables investors to gain direct control and custody over their digital assets. Capital Vault will be responsible for execution, custody, and settlement for these spot services.
The group confirmed that Capital Vault operates as an entirely separate, regulated entity. It maintains independent governance, custody arrangements, and risk management systems distinct from Capital.com’s other business operations.
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AAPLLocal expansion and regulatory changes
Capital Vault has established a new office in Abu Dhabi as it builds a dedicated local virtual asset team to support its expansion into the region. This initiative comes shortly after the CMA rolled out a new virtual asset regulatory framework in April, which expanded the number of regulated activities from three to eight.
The UAE’s updated framework outlines new requirements for business conduct, the operation of alternative trading systems, anti-money laundering measures, and prudential standards, aiming to foster greater oversight and stability in its virtual asset sector.
The recently introduced regulatory regime by the Capital Market Authority expands oversight of virtual asset businesses and introduces clear standards for market practices, custody operations, and anti-money laundering compliance.
Broader market context
Recent trends indicate that Abu Dhabi is strengthening its position as a regional center for digital asset activities through more rigorous regulation and expansion of licensing opportunities. In parallel, companies are seeking to enhance investor experience by streamlining access to trading and custody tools.
In a dynamic market shaped by regulatory updates, technical progress, and shifting asset prices, tools that consolidate charts, news, and portfolio monitoring are becoming critical. In environments where sudden central bank decisions or the rapid listing of an altcoin can transform trading conditions within seconds, having access to a single, privacy-first platform like CryptoAppsy gives traders real-time data and alerts without the need for multiple apps or account registration.
This new service positions Capital.com alongside a growing number of firms innovating in the region, following recent integrations such as US dollar stablecoins approved for use in self-custodial wallets by other providers.
The UAE continues to emerge as a key hub for digital asset development, driven by an evolving regulatory approach and increasing demand for secure cryptocurrency services.
