DIFC Julius Baer and Euroclear prepare whitepaper on tokenization in wealth transfer

DIFC Julius Baer and Euroclear prepare whitepaper on tokenization in wealth transfer

DIFC Innovation Hub, the start-up and innovation hub operating out of Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), a global financial centre in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region, is collaborating with global Swiss wealth management firm, Julius Baer, and the Financial Market Infrastructure Euroclear, to lead on tackling challenges in the digital asset estate planning space with tokenization of assets being studied for wealth transfer.

The collaborative innovation project, organised by DIFC Innovation Hub, will bring together innovators, investors, and subject matter experts from across the wealth management value chain to explore how families can best use technology to manage rapidly expanding portfolios of tokenized and digital assets.

DIFC’s Innovation Hub experts will work closely with Julius Baer’s global innovation team and Euroclear’s innovation centre of excellence for a three-month sprint that will result in a white paper detailing a future-oriented solution for succession planning relating tokenization applied to multi-generational inheritance. The analysis and subsequent findings will serve as a blueprint for other geographies looking to turn similar challenges into opportunities.

It is estimated that AED 3.67trn (USD 1trn) in assets will be transferred to the next generation in the Middle East over the coming decade. However, only 24 per cent of High-Net-Worth Individuals have a full estate plan in place. Fast adoption of various digital asset classes by individuals and businesses also poses potential complexities to a seamless execution of estate plans currently in place. The DIFC Innovation Hub, Julius Baer and Euroclear collaboration will help bring tangible solutions to this global challenge.

Mohammad Alblooshi, Chief Executive Officer, DIFC Innovation Hub, commented: “The region is witnessing a trend of generational wealth being deployed across a variety of digital asset classes to diversify and future-proof their portfolios. By bringing together global leading entities across wealth management, financial services providers, tech disruptors and regulators, this newly launched innovation project will help transform one of the largest, underserved markets in the region and open doors to a more inclusive and tech enabled future for family businesses and the wealth management industry.”

Alireza Valizadeh, CEO, Julius Baer (Middle East) Ltd, said, “Generational wealth transfer is gaining momentum in the UAE, and we, as Julius Baer, are in a unique position to advise our clients having had our origins as a family business. On the occasion of Julius Baer’s 20-year anniversary in Dubai, I am hoping that this innovation project will showcase how we can work together to stay relevant to our future clients and provide a vision highlighting the evolution of the private banking industry especially with the onset of digital assets.”

Philippe Laurensy, Head of Group Strategy, Product Management and Innovation at Euroclear, added, “As a trusted financial market infrastructure we have a strong commitment to collaborate with the market providing innovative solutions to our clients. We are extremely pleased to be working with DIFC Innovation Hub and Julius Baer on what we see as a transformative journey to address market gaps and create efficiencies by harnessing the power of tokenization. By validating and unlocking the benefits of smart contracts we have the potential to redefine the narrative of wealth management, creating solutions that could span generations.”

In October 2024, The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Courts in partnership with The Hashgraph Association and its partner in the UAE Deca4 Consultancy launched a DLT Hedera enabled Digital Assets Will solution.

The Digital Assets Will empowers individuals to distribute their digital assets using a non-custodial DIFC Courts wallet. A non-custodial wallet also allows an individual the freedom to reallocate the assets to the desired beneficiaries within their wallet, and for full control to mobilize in and out of the wallet in their lifetime, with assets finally distributed as ‘specific gifts’.

UAE Scintilla for tokenization appoints ex compliance officer of Midchains

UAE Scintilla for tokenization appoints ex compliance officer of Midchains

Scintilla, an institutional-grade tokenization solution provider, which recently acquired UAE regulated TOKO a crypto exchange has appointed the previous head of compliance at Midchains, Janey Schueller, as Chief Compliance Officer. Scintilla views this key leadership addition as the company continues to expand its innovative digital asset creation platform and strengthen its compliance framework.

Janey Schueller brings over 18 years of senior banking, wealth management, and regulatory compliance experience to her new role, with a specialization in fintech and RegTech. Her career includes leadership positions at global financial institutions such as UBS AG, where she managed wealth planning, compliance, and dispute resolution teams across Asia and the UAE. Most recently, Janey served as Head of Compliance at MidChains, where she implemented fintech-driven compliance frameworks and ensured regulatory alignment with authorities like the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) and Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA).

“Janey’s appointment is an exciting next step in Scintilla’s onward and upward journey to transform RWA tokenization,” commented Tim Popplewell, CEO of Scintilla. “Her extensive background in compliance and regulatory matters will be instrumental as we advance our mission of providing innovative, compliant digital asset solutions. Her leadership will help us navigate the evolving landscape of digital assets, ensuring we remain at the forefront of this dynamic industry.”

“Joining Scintilla feels like a natural step as they redefine compliance and innovation in finance,” shares Janey Schueller, Head of Compliance. “As regulatory frameworks evolve, the need for robust compliance is more critical than ever. I’m eager to contribute to Scintilla’s mission by ensuring our offerings meet the highest standards of compliance, paving the way for trusted and innovative tokenization solutions that empower our clients and support the future of finance.”

IOTA selected for Blockchain Digital identity use case with UAE and World Economic Forum

IOTA selected for Blockchain Digital identity use case with UAE and World Economic Forum

IOTA Foundation has been selected for the UAE Ministry of Economy, ADDED, and World Economic Forum TradeTech Regulatory Sandbox.

IOTA Foundation was selected to be part of the well-known TradeTech Regulatory Sandbox jointly organized by the World Economic Forum, the UAE Ministry of Economy, and the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED). The initiative focuses on several key use cases within trade finance involving Know Your Customer (KYC) processes and digital identity.

IOTA announced this on X, stating, ” We are excited to participate in a use case focusing on KYC and Digital Identity for Trade Finance.”


The use case will be presented during the plenary session at the TradeTech Forum in Abu Dhabi on April 8th 2025.

The WEF for Trade and Investment chose eight participants who will be working closely with UAE regulators to test and refine solutions that address challenges in the global trade finance space. The entities other than IOTA include Credore, Enigio, Jetstream, Empeiria blockchain offering self sovereign identity solutions based out of the UAE, Haifan as well.

Regulatory partners include ADGM, Central Bank of the UAE, DFSA (Dubai Financial Services Authority) and UAE Ministry of Cabinet Affairs’s RegLab

Tokinvest and StegX bridge asset tokenization between UAE and Germany

Tokinvest and StegX bridge asset tokenization between UAE and Germany

Tokinvest, a UAE regulated marketplace for real-world asset investing, and German based StegX, a platform for tokenized real assets based in Germany, have partnered to bridge tokenization between UAE and Germany. StegX has been collaborating with entities to bridge tokenization solutions with Singapore, and Latin America.

The collaboration aims to advance the global ecosystem of tokenized real-world assets (RWAs) by combining the regulatory strengths and technological capabilities of both entities. As per the press release, the partnership will provide investors with seamless access to tokenized assets across multiple markets, enhancing transparency, liquidity, and financial inclusion.

This partnership represents a significant step toward mainstream adoption of tokenized assets. By connecting Dubai, a global hub for virtual asset innovation, with Frankfurt, one of Europe’s premier financial centers, Tokinvest and StegX are creating a robust cross-border infrastructure that benefits both issuers and investors.

“This collaboration underscores our commitment to democratizing access to the world’s most exclusive assets,” said Scott Thiel, CEO and Co-Founder of Tokinvest. “StegX’s expertise in tokenization and their strong presence in Europe complement our vision to make high-quality investments more accessible. Together, we’re building a bridge for global investors to explore the future of tokenized real-world assets in a secure, regulated environment.”

Daniel Radwansky, CEO and Co-Founder of StegX, commented, “This partnership represents a significant milestone in advancing the adoption of tokenised real-world assets. By connecting Europe and the Middle East, we are creating new opportunities for investors and issuers alike, fostering a global ecosystem of innovation, transparency, and efficiency.”

Finally, the collaboration will support issuers in creating, listing, and trading tokenized assets, ranging from real estate and commodities to funds, with unparalleled security and compliance.

Germany is already far along when it comes to opening up to tokenization of real world assets. In December 2024, German fintech 21X, one of the four applicants for a blockchain trading infrastructure permit under the European Union’s DLT Pilot Regime, secured regulatory approval to launch a tokenization platform.

Granted by German financial supervisory authority, Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht (BaFin), the license enabled 21X to launch its exchange for tokenized financial instruments from its Frankfurt headquarters.

Additionally German based Cashlink Technologies also received a crypto custodian license from the German regulator. “With the combination of our license as a crypto securities registrar and the new crypto custody license, we offer a unique, comprehensive service offering around tokenized securities,” said Michael Duttlinger, CEO of Cashlink. “This strong regulatory foundation not only strengthens our market leadership as a neutral infrastructure provider for tokenized assets but also consistently drives forward the development of Capital Markets 2.0.”

SNC Insider’s recent market research has noted that the Tokenization Market was valued at USD 2.9 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 16.6 Billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.5% from 2024 to 2032.

OFZA Crypto exchange now licensed by Dubai’s Regulator

OFZA Crypto exchange now licensed by Dubai’s Regulator

OFZA, a UAE established cryptocurrency exchange that provides seamless and secure crypto trading offering has secured a full VASP license from Dubai’s Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA). As per the license, OFZA will be able to offer crypto broker-dealer Services, crypto exchange services, management and Investment Services as well as advisory services to both retail and institutional investors as well as qualified investors in the UAE.

With the license from VARA, OFZA becomes the 20th Virtual Asset exchange and broker provider to be licensed by VARA in the UAE. The license comes at a time when crypto is gaining immense traction with the new Trump administration.

The crypto exchange will be competing with players such as Binance, CoinMENA, Crypto.com, OKX and others in the UAE.

According to Chainalysis’ Geography of Crypto Report 2024, the UAE saw a 42% year-on-year growth in crypto transactions, receiving $34 billion between July 2023 and June 2024. The Middle East and North Africa region (MENA) accounted for 7.5% of all cryptocurrency transaction volume globally between July 2023 and June 2024.

Chainalysis estimated the total value received during the period to be $338.7 billion, with the vast majority of the transaction volume coming from institutional and professional investors.

UAE Further Ventures invests $5 million in GRVT decentralized crypto exchange

UAE Further Ventures invests $5 million in GRVT decentralized crypto exchange

UAE based Further Ventures, capital markets investment firm, has invested $5 million in GRVT, a regulated Decentralized exchange. The investment will be utilized to drive GRVT’s Middle East expansion and license progress.


GRVT (pronounced “gravity”), a regulated DEX, on its blog, believes the investment marks another significant milestone for GRVT, following its recent achievement of securing a Class M (“Modified”) Digital Asset Business License from the Bermuda Monetary Authority (BMA), making it the world’s first regulated DEX.

As a strategic partner, Further Ventures will provide essential support in product development, legal and regulatory guidance, talent recruitment, and business development, enabling GRVT to enhance its offerings for both retail and institutional traders across the Middle East. This will accelerate GRVT’s growth, strengthening its position as the first licensed blockchain-settled exchange and underscoring its next goal of securing a Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) capital markets license.

“We are thrilled to this strategic round and have the support from Further Ventures as we continue to redefine the future of crypto exchanges,” said Hong Yea, Co-Founder and CEO of GRVT. “This investment is a crucial step in our expansion into the Abu Dhabi market, whose innovative crypto ecosystem and progressive regulatory frameworks make it an ideal base as we aim to lead the compliant DeFi development across the Middle East region. With Further Ventures’ backing, we’re well-positioned to meet the needs of both retail and institutional investors here.”

“GRVT is redefining the convergence of DeFi and TradFi with a compliance-first, self-custody approach,” said Mohamed Hamdy, Managing Partner at Further Ventures. “By integrating the efficiency and familiarity of traditional financial systems with the security and transparency of blockchain technology, GRVT is setting the stage for the future of global finance. This visionary blend of innovation and responsibility aligns perfectly with our mission to lead the region in shaping the next era of digital assets and financial services.”

GRVT launched its Mainnet Alpha in December 2024, reaching a 30-day trading volume of nearly $1.3 billion and an all-time high 24-hour trading volume of $88 million.

Earlier this month, Further Ventures, led a $16 million investment Series A round in French digital asset wallet and custodian developer, DFNS, DFNS, which was launched in 2020, and has operations both in Paris and New York aims to compete against FireBlocks and Ledger. Using the funds raised both in 2022, $12 million and that raised in January 2024 $16 million, the startup plans to accelerate its development to meet requirements of financial institutions.

UAE BITS Pilani establishes Blockchain and AI research center

UAE BITS Pilani establishes Blockchain and AI research center

BITS Pilani Dubai Campus, The Birla Institute of Technology and Science, (BPDC) has established the Ankitt Gaur Centre of Excellence in Blockchain & AI Research, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This ground-breaking initiative represents the first endowment from a Work Integrated Learning Program (WILP) alumnus, Ankitt Gaur, Founder & CEO of OrbitXPay and a distinguished alumnus (2007-2009 Batch) of BPDC.

As per the press release, the Ankitt Gaur Centre of Excellence aims to become a leading hub for research, innovation, and incubation in Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Web3 technologies. The center seeks to bridge the gap between academia and industry, fostering an ecosystem of innovation, entrepreneurship, and start-ups.

Prof. Souri Banerjee, Director of BITS Pilani Dubai Campus, remarked “We are immensely proud to formalize this MoU with Ankitt Gaur. This generous funding is a transformative milestone for our campus, enabling unparalleled opportunities in Blockchain and AI research and innovation. It reflects the enduring bond our alumni share with their alma mater and their commitment to shaping the future of technology.”

Speaking about the initiative, Ankitt Gaur said “BITS Pilani has played a pivotal role in shaping my career. As a proud alumnus, this commitment reflects my gratitude and vision to inspire innovation and technological advancement. Through this centre, I hope to empower innovators, students, and researchers to lead in the fields of AI, Blockchain, and Web3.”

The Centre of Excellence will serve as a platform for students and researchers to collaborate on cutting-edge projects, driving global leadership in next-generation technologies. It aims to strengthen the synergy between academia and industry, catalysing research and start-up ecosystems.

Prof. Arya Kumar, Dean of Alumni Relations Division, BITS Pilani, added “This is a landmark moment for BITS Pilani and its alumni community. Ankitt Gaur’s contribution underscores how our alumni are advancing cutting-edge research and creating opportunities for future generations. It will provide significant impetus to strengthening the start-up ecosystem with a focus on Blockchain and AI applications.”

FastBull Finance Summit debuts in Dubai UAE in April 2025

FastBull Finance Summit debuts in Dubai UAE in April 2025

The FastBull Finance Summit has announced its debut in Dubai, taking place on April 16-17, 2025, at the iconic Coca-Cola Arena. The summit will bring together industry leaders, investors, and financial experts for two days of insightful discussions, groundbreaking trends, and unparalleled networking opportunities.

A Must-Attend Event to Listen to Jim Rogers’ Sharing

At the heart of this highly anticipated event is none other than Jim Rogers, the legendary investor and co-founder of the Quantum Fund. Known for his bold market predictions and expertise in global investment strategies, Rogers will share his invaluable insights on the future of global markets, the rise of alternative assets, and his outlook for emerging economies.

Exclusive Panel Discussions on the Future of Trading

At the FastBull Dubai Finance Summit 2025, the organizers are offering four exclusive panel discussions that will dive deep into the most pressing topics in the world of Forex, crypto, and smart trading. Each forum will provide participants with valuable insights and hands-on discussions led by top industry experts.

Networking is made easy with complimentary coffee breaks throughout the event, providing a chance to mingle with fellow professionals, engage in discussions, and form valuable business connections.

Every participant will have the chance to win incredible prizes in our surprise raffles held throughout the event. From exclusive gifts to once-in-a-lifetime experiences, you won’t want to miss your chance to win something special!

UAE Securities and Commodities Authority drafts security and commodity token regulations

UAE Securities and Commodities Authority drafts security and commodity token regulations

In an interesting move, given the global move, especially in the United States to accept digital assets and form regulations surrounding them, the UAE Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) has released a draft regulation under the title “ Security Tokens and Commodity Tokens Contracts”.

The UAE SCA has invited feedback on the draft regulation by February 14th 2025.

The UAE SCA  in its draft regulations has defined Security tokens as digital assets created using Distributed Ledger Technology to represent financial rights or tangible assets. Examples of Security tokens include equity tokens, and bond tokens.

With regards to Commodity Tokens, the regulator has defined them as a type of digital assets that are based on the value of physical commodities such as gold, oil, metals, or agricultural products.

These tokens are used to facilitate the trading of commodities on digital platforms while reducing the costs and risks associated with traditional trading. Examples offered by the UAE SCA include gold tokens,  and oil tokens.

In terms of the agreements for both security and commodity tokens that will be recorded onto a DLT (Distributed Ledger Technology) platforms, and can be traded on DLT platforms as well.

Subject to the provisions of Federal-Decree Law No. (31) of 2024 Regarding Netting, the transfer of a security token or commodity token derivative contracts shall be subject to the provisions of the registration agreement. The security token and the commodity token contracts may only be traded and settled through the market or the alternative trading system, while the trading and settlement of bonds and sukuks can be carried out over the counter.

In September 2024, The Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) signed a cooperation agreement with Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) where it was agreed that VASPs operating in/from Dubai, or wishing to service the emirate of Dubai required to obtain a license from VARA, and can be registered by default with the SCA to service the wider UAE. VASPs wishing to operate out of any other Emirates, must be licensed by the SCA to do so.

In addition under the agreement, the SCA and VARA will set forth rules and procedures for licensing and supervision virtual asset service providers (VASPs) and any related activities, services or associated transactions. This is subject to licensing in accordance with the provisions of Cabinet Decision No. 111 of 2022, and No. 112 of 2022 (Regulating Virtual Assets and Their Service Providers) and within the respective jurisdiction of both parties.

The agreement covers the mechanism for mutual supervision of VASPs, penalty and fine imposition, the exchange of information and statistics, as well as cooperation in employee training and qualification.

UAE DP World to issue stablecoin for cross border payments

UAE DP World to issue stablecoin for cross border payments

DP World, a global player in the logistics and trade ecosystem, is partnering with financial and technology providers to address inefficiencies in cross-border payments with a stablecoin issuance. The announcement was made at World Economic Forum in Davos.

As customers in emerging markets such as Asia and Africa grapple with prolonged settlement times, restricted access to finance, and a lack of transparency DP World will collaborate with firms in Singapore, India and UAE as well as other key markets.

As per the press release, DP World aims to introduce accessible, instant, and transparent cross-border payment solutions powered by stablecoins. The initiative is designed to simplify and accelerate international transactions, empowering businesses in emerging economies to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

DP World Group Chairman & CEO, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, said, “By introducing stablecoin-based payment options, we are not just addressing a critical gap in the trade ecosystem but also reaffirming our commitment to innovation and leadership in global commerce. This initiative aligns with DP World’s broader mission to enhance trade flows and economic development in regions that need it most. We believe this initiative will redefine the way businesses engage in cross-border trade, particularly in regions where financial barriers have limited potential. DP World is committed to creating a more inclusive and efficient trade ecosystem.”

DP world believes that stablecoins will drastically reduced settlement cost and times for cross-border payments, giving the example of a textile manufacturer in Ethiopia which exports raw cotton to a fabric producer in India but faces significant delays in receiving payments.

This is due to the traditional correspondent banking systems requiring multiple intermediaries, resulting in settlement times that can extend to several days or even weeks. Stablecoins will also improve financial accessibility for businesses of all sizes such as the Ethiopian supplier struggling with cash flow, limiting its ability to scale operations or meet additional orders.

Finally stablecoins will enhance transparency and trust in international trade transactions and the lack of real-time tracking of the transaction status leaves both parties uncertain about when the payment will be completed.

The announcement comes months after the UAE Central Bank came out with its stablecoin regulation, allowing AED Stablecoins to be used for payments for products and services within the UAE, and for other stablecoins to be used for the purchase of virtual assets. Both would need to be regulated thought within the UAE.

As a result the first regulated AED stablecoin was announced under the name AECoin. DP World’s stablecoin could become the second one to be regulated, while Tether awaits its approval.