Crypto.com’s new license gives retail clients USD fiat rails through Standard and Chartered Bank

Crypto.com’s new license gives retail clients USD fiat rails through Standard and Chartered Bank


Crypto.com announced that Dubai’s Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority has issued the crypto exchange a limited license to offer derivatives in the UAE as well as enable retail users to access USD fiat rails for depositing and withdrawing USD from their crypto account through Standard and Chartered Bank.

Crypto derivatives are financial contracts whose value is derived from the price of an underlying cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin or Ethereum. These instruments allow traders to speculate on future price movements without owning the underlying assets. The four major types of derivative contracts are options, forwards, futures and swaps.

With this limited license, the crypto exchange’s regional entity plans to initiate offering various derivatives products, including futures, perpetual swap contracts, and CFDs. CFD stands for contract for difference, a type of derivative product that you can use to speculate on the future direction of a market’s price.

These services will be available to eligible institutions globally, with qualified investors to follow at a later date. Additionally, through this limited license, all of the crypto exchange’s retail users can access USD fiat rails for depositing and withdrawing USD from their Crypto.com account via Standard Chartered.

“We are aggressively transforming and evolving Crypto.com to provide users around the world all of the financial technology tools they are looking for in one place,” said Eric Anziani, President and COO of Crypto.com. “With this approval from VARA for a limited license, we are taking a significant and exciting step forward in our pursuit.”

A few days earlier the exchange also announced that it had partnered with an AI Blockchain tech firm in UAE called Tawasal Al Khaleej. Tawasal has developed a mobile messaging application that is currently being utilized by UAE governmental entities and other industries within the UAE. Tawasal AlKhaleej will use crypto.com as their exclusive crypto partner of choice.

Crypto.com partners with UAE AI tech company

Crypto.com partners with UAE AI tech company

Crypto.com a global crypto exchange regulated in the UAE has partnered with an AI Blockchain tech firm in UAE called Tawasal Al Khaleej. Tawasal has developed a mobile messaging application that is currently being utilized by UAE governmental entities and other industries within the UAE.

As per the announcement Tawasal AlKhaleej will use crypto.com as their exclusive crypto partner of choice.

The integration has two stages, the first iteration of this deal will see Crypto.com’s platform referred by Tawasal Alkhaleej to its local and Middle East partners and collaborators strengthening Crypto.com’s position in the region.

There are also plans to integrate the crypto exchange platform into UAE’s leading Tawasal Superapp messanger offering access to Crypto.com’s products and services and the ability to trade crypto to nearly 4 million users.

“Our partnership with Tawasal opens up a world of possibilities for Crypto.com to integrate our industry-leading products and services into their impressive tech projects,” said Eric Anziani, President and COO of Crypto.com. “This partnership is an outstanding example of how the UAE tech ecosystem is thriving, and where the integration of digital assets products can benefit companies and consumers alike, giving simplified access to cryptocurrency which not only encourages adoption but also progresses the development of our industry.”

“Partnering with Crypto.com is about expansion, driving growth, and making the Crypto services even more attractive for UAE consumers” said Khamis AlShamsi, Chairman of Tawasal Alkhaleej.

Eric Leandri, CEO of Tawasal stated: “We’re eager to join forces with Crypto.com and seamlessly integrate their innovative products and services into our cutting-edge tech projects. By combining their services and digital assets with our blockchain technologies we’re reaffirming our commitment to delivering, safe, interactive, and easy to use digital experiences to our customers. In return, Tawasal SuperApp, is poised to provide Crypto.com with unparalleled visibility and expose their financial products to the local market, further expanding their reach and presence.”

This announcement comes less than a day after UAE MGX, also an investor in AI announced its $2 billion investment in Binance.

Dubai Islamic Bank and Crypto.com team up to tokenize Islamic Sukuks and offer crypto payments

Dubai Islamic Bank and Crypto.com team up to tokenize Islamic Sukuks and offer crypto payments

Global crypto exchange Crypto.com, regulated in the UAE has teamed up with Dubai Islamic Bank to explore opportunities to introduce tokenized Sharia compliant Islamic Sukuk, and Real World assets, as well as facilitate crypto payments.

Crypto.com has announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB), the UAE’s largest Islamic Bank and a world-renowned pioneer in the field of Islamic finance, as it continues to expand its market presence in the UAE and wider GCC.

The MoU, signed by Crypto.com’s President of UAE Operations, Mr. Mohammed Al Hakim, and DIB’s Chief Digital Officer, Mr. Musabbah Al Qaizi signed the MOU at DIB’s headquarters.

The MoU focuses on several key areas of collaboration including promoting the Crypto.com App and Card through DIB’s channels, with reward-based campaigns for DIB’s customers, and facilitating cryptocurrency payments via DIB’s systems.

This agreement also enables fiat currency funding on the Crypto.com App. Moreover, both entities will explore tokenization of real-world assets, including Islamic sukuks and real estate portfolios via the Cronos chain, and will look to integrate Crypto.com’s custody, OTC trade execution, and crypto trading technology solutions for DIB’s retail clients.

“We are delighted to enter this significant agreement with Dubai Islamic Bank, one of the most influential banks in the region, and explore exciting ways we can enhance our products for our UAE and wider GCC customer base.” said Mohammed Al Hakim, UAE President of Operations at Crypto.com.

“The partnership represents a unique opportunity for us to bridge the worlds of cryptocurrency and Islamic banking, paving the way for future collaboration on tokenized sukuks and sharia-compliant crypto solutions. We look forward to investigating new and innovative payment solutions and exploring the untapped potential in the Islamic finance sector.”

Musabbah Al Qaizi, Chief Digital Officer at Dubai Islamic Bank, said: “This partnership with Crypto.com signifies a transformative milestone for Dubai Islamic Bank as we embrace the forefront of technological advancement in Islamic finance. By exploring innovative avenues such as tokenized Islamic sukuks and the tokenization of real-world assets, we align with our strategic vision to integrate cutting-edge digital solutions while upholding the principles of Sharia compliance. This collaboration allows us to set new-age standards for Sharia-compliant financial solutions, providing our customers with unparalleled security, efficiency, and flexibility. It empowers us to redefine the integration between Islamic banking and digital asset management, paving the way for future developments in this emerging sector.”

This announcement comes as Crypto.com continues to expand its global and regional footprint, with the recent acquisition of Orion Principals Limited, regulated by the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), as well as the launch of its AED Wallet, giving users in the UAE fast and seamless deposit and withdrawals in the local currency.

It also recently appointed UAE National Mohammed Al Hakim to head its operations in the UAE.

Earlier in December, Crypto.com also announced a collaboration with Mastercard allowing the company to issue its world-renowned prepaid debit card to eligible users in the GCC region.

Crypto.com appoints UAE National as president of its UAE Operation

Crypto.com appoints UAE National as president of its UAE Operation

Crypto.com has announced the appointment of Mohammed Al Hakim, a UAE national, as president of its UAE operation for the company’s growth and diversity in the region.

Al-Hakim will head up business development, strategic partnerships, and financial innovation to Crypto.com. According to the press release, he has been key in driving over $800 million in foreign investments into Dubai. Al-Hakim has raised millions in sponsorships for UAE government initiatives and launched programs aimed at empowering Emirati professionals.

Kris Marszalek, CEO of Crypto.com, expressed confidence in Al-Hakim’s leadership, stating that his expertise will be pivotal in advancing the company’s goals in the UAE. “The UAE is a critical market for us, and Mohammed’s leadership and experience will help us build strong relationships and achieve sustainable growth in this key region,” said Marszalek.

Al Hakim shared his enthusiasm for joining Crypto.com, emphasizing, “The UAE’s leadership in fostering a forward-thinking regulatory framework has set the stage for exponential growth, and I look forward to contributing to Crypto.com’s mission by driving innovation and delivering exceptional value to our users across the UAE and GCC.”

“We have a number of growth initiatives and exciting product launches in the pipeline for 2025 in the UAE and wider GCC region and we’re delighted to have Mohammed onboard to spearhead these,” said Eric Anziani, President and Chief Operating Officer of Crypto.com.

Al Hakim is also a member of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Center for Leadership Development’s 7th cohort. This program is focused on developing future leaders, reflecting his dedication to innovation and leadership in the UAE and GCC.

He worked as a Director for the Corporate Management and Loyalty and Incentives Programs at the UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.

The UAE is now one of the top global hubs for digital assets, ranking third in the MENA region with over $30 billion in cryptocurrency transactions from July 2023 to June 2024.

This announcement follows Crypto.com’s recent acquisition of Orion Principals Limited in Abu Dhabi and the launch of its AED Wallet, which allows users in the UAE to easily deposit and withdraw in local currency. Additionally, Crypto.com partnered with Mastercard to offer a prepaid debit card to eligible users in the GCC.

Few weeks ago, Bahrain’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, met with the President and Chief Operating Officer of Crypto.com, Eric Anziani, at Gudaibiya Palace where he presented His Royal Highness with the company’s new Mastercard prototype and is regarded as the first of its kind in the Middle East.

In September 2024, Crypto.com, received a crypto payment service provider license from the Central Bank of Bahrain allowing it to offer e-money and fiat-based payment services regionally, including prepaid cards.

Crypto.com had already received a crypto exchange license from Dubai’s virtual asset regulator in UAE, and considers this license as part of its expansion plans in the GCC region.

Crypto.com acquires Abu Dhabi based brokerage company

Crypto.com acquires Abu Dhabi based brokerage company

Crypto.com has acquired Orion Principals Limited, a brokerage company licensed by the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) in the UAE. As per the press release, the move is part of the company’s strategic plan to integrate traditional financial services into its platform, a step that will soon allow users to access securities (e.g. stocks), options, futures, contracts for difference (CFDs), and more.

Orion’s ADGM license enables Crypto.com to expand its offerings while maintaining compliance with one of the most respected regulatory frameworks for digital assets. With this acquisition, Crypto.com continues to grow its presence in the UAE, solidifying its reputation as a global innovator in digital finance.

“We have a clear path set out in our product roadmap for 2025—to offer our users the most comprehensive platform for a broad range of financial investment services. We are continually growing our presence in the UAE, which has one of the strongest regulatory frameworks for the digital assets industry globally and we appreciate ADGM’s commitment to supporting innovation in our sector.”
stated, Kris Marszalek, CEO of Crypto.com


For Crypto.com’s users, this move signals access to a more diverse range of investment opportunities. The integration of traditional financial instruments will allow traders to diversify their portfolios, managing both digital and conventional assets from a single platform. This blending of markets aligns with the growing demand for seamless cross-asset trading experiences and positions Crypto.com as a leader in unified financial services.

Crypto.com also recently gained a crypto payment services license in Bahrain and partnered with MasterCard to issue crypto cards in Bahrain.

Crypto.com and MasterCard partner to issue cards in Bahrain

Crypto.com and MasterCard partner to issue cards in Bahrain

Crypto.com which recently secured a crypto payment service provider license in Bahrain has now partnered with Mastercard to directly issue cards on Mastercard’s network. It is a principal license that allows Crypto.com to launch a card in Bahrain powered by Mastercard.

As per the press release, the new program will leverage Mastercard’s trusted, scalable and secure payments network to enable the crypto exchange customers to use their card at over 150 million in-store and online locations worldwide. Users can easily fund their cards through the Crypto.com app using e-money wallets or third party-issued credit and debit cards.

The innovative payment product will be available across all five Crypto.com card tiers, including Black Obsidian, offering rewards up to 8% on spending and will be denominated in USD.

“We’re really proud to be partnering with Mastercard, a global technology leader in the payments industry, and utilising our recently issued Payment Service Provider licence from the Central Bank of Bahrain to launch our world-renowned prepaid card to our users in Bahrain and beyond,” said Karl Mohan, General Manager APAC & MEA of Crypto.com. “Mastercard has shown its support for the digital assets industry by creating a robust card programme service that’s specifically tailored for our customers, allowing us to expand our product offering into new markets whilst proving our continued commitment to the highest levels of security and compliance.”

“We are delighted to welcome Crypto.com as a Mastercard Principal Member. The programme provides a wide range of benefits and opportunities beyond the direct issuance of Mastercards. Crypto.com will now have access to our global network, enabling transactions wherever Mastercard is accepted, our innovative payment solutions powered by cutting-edge technology, and our comprehensive tools for enhancing transaction security and fraud protection,” said Amnah Ajmal, Executive Vice President, Market Development, EEMEA, Mastercard.

According to Eric Anziani, President and Chief Operating Officer at Crypto.com on LinkedIn, “We launched our first card in Bahrain, with plans to expand to other eligible GCC markets soon!”

Prior to this Crypto.com and Bahrain based BENEFIT, a FinTech and electronic financial transactions services signed an MOU ( Memorandum of Understanding) to combine their expertise and help expand the digital assets and fintech ecosystem in Bahrain including areas such as payment integration and prepaid card capabilities.

The crypto exchange even partnered with Bahrain based Beyon Monay, to enhance transaction solutions and explore innovative opportunities in digital payments and AI.

Bahrain Beyon Money partners with Crypto.com for digital payments and AI

Bahrain Beyon Money partners with Crypto.com for digital payments and AI

Bahrain based Beyon Monay, and Crypto.com have partnered to enhance transaction solutions and explore innovative opportunities in digital payments and AI.

As per the press release, the companies will explore collaborations in the transaction and payments sectors, as well as pursue joint innovation in artificial intelligence and open banking.

The partnership will leverage Beyon Money’s role as a financial super-app and payment platform, along with Crypto.com’s established retail products. The aim is to improve the overall experience for customers through enhanced services.

“As we continue to expand our presence in Bahrain, we are excited to investigate ways we can partner with Beyon Money, who are really leading the way in the digital payments space in the Kingdom,” said Eric Anziani, President and COO of Crypto.com.

“Beyon Money has an exciting product structure and reach in Bahrain, with a solid reputation and strong user base and by working together we hope to grow both of our brand’s innovative product range and services we provide to our Bahrain customers.”

“Beyon Money is committed to forging partnerships with leading global players,” states Roberto Mancone, CEO of Beyon Money. “Our collaboration with Crypto.com, which has recently obtained its Payment Service Provider license in Bahrain, will focus on co-marketing and promoting our respective cards. We will also work on integrating our platforms to streamline cryptocurrency purchases on the Crypto.com app, along with other projects that explore innovative technologies creating value through tangible use cases for our clients.

Previously, Crypto.com and Bahrain based BENEFIT, a FinTech and electronic financial transactions services signed an MOU ( Memorandum of Understanding) which aims at discussing combining their expertise and help expand the digital assets and fintech ecosystem in Bahrain including areas such as payment integration and prepaid card capabilities.

In September 2024, Crypto.com received a crypto payment service provider license from the Central Bank of Bahrain allowing it to offer e-money and fiat based payment services regionally, including prepaid cards.

Crypto.com had already received a crypto exchange license from Dubai’s virtual asset regulator in UAE, and considers this license as part of its expansion plans in the GCC region.

Crypto.com and Bahrain BENEFIT explore digital asset payment integration

Crypto.com and Bahrain BENEFIT explore digital asset payment integration

Crypto.com and Bahrain based BENEFIT, a FinTech and electronic financial transactions services have signed an MOU ( Memorandum of Understanding) which aims at discussing combining their expertise and help expand the digital assets and fintech ecosystem in Bahrain including areas such as payment integration and prepaid card capabilities.

The companies signed an MOU at the Fintech Forward event in Bahrain on October 3, 2024.

“BENEFIT’s innovative work to develop the electronic payments space in Bahrain is impressive and we’re excited at the prospect of partnering with a company that is forward-thinking and eager to support the growth of the digital assets industry,” said Eric Anziani, President and COO of Crypto.com. “Bahrain has created an innovation friendly environment and we’re looking forward to expanding our services here.”

“We are pleased to explore this collaboration with Crypto.com as it aligns with our mission to continuously drive innovation in Bahrain’s financial services sector,” said Abdulwahed AlJanahi, Chief Executive of BENEFIT. “By leveraging our expertise in electronic financial transactions and Crypto.com’s cutting-edge capabilities in the realm of cryptocurrency, we are confident this partnership can bring added value to Bahrain’s evolving fintech landscape and support the growth of digital assets in the Kingdom.”

This comes after Crypto.com Crypto.com, the 13th largest global crypto exchange according to CoinMarketCap, received a crypto payment service provider license from the Central Bank of Bahrain allowing it to offer e-money and fiat based payment services regionally, including prepaid cards.

Crypto.com crypto exchange to offer crypto payments in Bahrain and GCC region

Crypto.com crypto exchange to offer crypto payments in Bahrain and GCC region

Crypto.com, the 13th largest global crypto exchange according to CoinMarketCap, has received a crypto payment service provider license from the Central Bank of Bahrain allowing it to offer e-money and fiat based payment services regionally, including prepaid cards.

Crypto.com had already received a crypto exchange license from Dubai’s virtual asset regulator in UAE, and considers this license as part of its expansion plans in the GCC region.

As per the press release, Crypto.com received a payment service provider (PSP) services from the Central Bank of Bahrain through its subsidiary registered in the Kingdom of Bahrain under the commercial name “FORIS GFS BH B.S.C. CLOSED”. The PSP licence will allow Crypto.com to expand its offerings of e-money and fiat-based payment services regionally, including the launch of its world-renowned prepaid cards.

“With its extensive international presence and an earned reputation for regulatory compliance, we are delighted that Crypto.com has chosen the Kingdom of Bahrain as a destination for investment, which will further bolster Bahrain’s ability to deliver on its vision of developing a digital-first, resilient economy that celebrates innovation and progress,” said H.E. Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif, Minister of Sustainable Development, Chief Executive of Bahrain Economic Development Board,.

She added, “Bahrain is successfully building a world-class ecosystem to support the evolution of the fast-growing blockchain, crypto and fintech industry. This is further supported by robust regulations and a diverse, highly skilled, and future-ready talent pool, particularly within the financial services and technology sectors.”

“Bahrain has been working to create an innovation-friendly crypto and fintech ecosystem, which has involved putting in place clear regulation that balances consumer protection with commercialisation,” said Eric Anziani, President and COO of Crypto.com. “We appreciate the work of the Kingdom and look forward to progressing our relationship as we play our part in growing the crypto industry in Bahrain and across the GCC.”

Bahrain, was among the first to issue crypto-asset licenses in the region with licenses to both Rain crypto broker, and CoinMENA, then Binance. Binance also offers crypto payment services in the Kingdom.

Cypto.com is additionally licensed for specific services in key markets around the world, including Singapore, France, Australia, Ireland,

Crypto.com now fully operational in UAE

Crypto.com now fully operational in UAE

Crypto.com is now fully operational in the UAE after receiving the final approval from Dubai’s virtual asset regulatory authority VARA. It is the first international crypto exchange to receive a full operational license.

Crypto.com announced this achievement on X formerly Twitter stating that it would now be able to serve institutional investors.

The post stated, “We’re excited to announce our full operational approval from Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority. Crypto․com Exchange will be available for institutional investors as our first launch in the region.”

Crypto.com, has announced that its Dubai entity, CRO DAX Middle East FZE, has received full operational approval from Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) and is launching the Crypto.com Exchange for institutional investors as its first operational milestone.

This operational approval follows Crypto.com’s fulfillment of the pre-operational conditions stipulated in the Virtual Asset Service Provider Licence granted to CRO DAX Middle East FZE in November 2023, and marks a first for a global crypto operator to be operational with fiat in the UAE.

Crypto.com will be able to offer exchange Services, broker-Dealer Services, management and Investment Services and lending and Borrowing Services to institutional and retail clients.

Available to institutional clients and qualified retail investors, the Crypto.com Exchange, which has deep liquidity and a state-of-the-art matching engine, offers spot trading, staking brokerage and other OTC offerings around settlements for selected markets. With this full operational approval, Crypto.com has also initiated plans for further in-market product launches expected in the coming months, including the Crypto.com App and additional retail-user focused products.

“We are thrilled to expand our presence and offering in the UAE with the support of VARA,” said Eric Anziani, President and Chief Operating Officer of Crypto.com. “Launching with our world-class Crypto.com Exchange institutional services will be fundamental to our continued growth and success in such a key market for our company.”

“We are incredibly supportive of the steps Dubai is taking to progress the crypto industry, both in-market and abroad,” said Stuart Isted, General Manager, Middle East and Africa of Crypto.com. “But this is still just the beginning, and we look forward to continuing to work closely with VARA in our collective efforts to effectively and responsibly advance the sector.”

In November 2023, Crypto.com received its license but was not operational until all requirements were met. Prior to this OKX received its license which is still non-operational.