Zand Bank, Capital Investment and Fasset launch real estate tokenization platform

Zand Bank, Capital Investment and Fasset launch real estate tokenization platform

UAE Capital Investment Holding Ltd., and Fasset, tokenization exchange platform, and Zand Bank, have launched ForteXchain, a real estate tokenization blockchain platform, allowing for fractional real estate investment.

The UAE’s real estate sector continues its record-breaking trajectory into 2025, solidifying its status as a global investment hotspot. In January alone, property sales transactions soared to AED 33.9 billion, reflecting an 18% surge compared to the same period in 2024. The Dubai Land Department (DLD) also reported a 19% year-on-year increase in transaction volume, reinforcing the emirate’s appeal among international investors.

ForteXchain eliminates traditional barriers to real estate investing by lowering entry costs, streamlining regulatory processes, and opening access to both novice and seasoned investors. By leveraging blockchain technology, the platform enables fractional investment in real-world properties starting from just $1 drastically reducing the participation threshold and offering unprecedented flexibility to both retail and institutional investors, subject to local regulations.

“Zand is proud to be the first UAE bank to offer institutional-grade custodial solutions, with private keys securely held within the UAE,” said Michael Chan, CEO of Zand. “Our mission is to accelerate the growth of the digital economy by expanding global access to tokenized Real-World Assets (RWA), including the real estate market, with unparalleled security, transparency, and regulatory compliance.”

In its inaugural issuance round, ForteXchain will present a curated portfolio of tokenized real estate assets across multiple countries. Letters of Intent (LOIs) have already been issued for the following jurisdictions, with due diligence and project exploration underway for projects in Spain such as Elysium City, a pioneering €18 billion sustainable development by Elysium City Spain, as well as in the UAE through Centurion Properties Group & Arabia Capital. Centurion Properties Group & Arabia Capital is focusing on Burj Capital, Arabia Residences, and Centurion Business Complex.

Also included is Malaysia with Bin Zayed International, a leading UAE-based investment group. Jazz City (Kulim, Kedah) – an ongoing project – is a flagship mixed-use development spanning 70.34 acres in Kulim, Kedah known as the “Technology City” of northern Malaysia.

The press release noted that additional projects are under review and will be announced in the coming weeks. This initial phase will be followed by a comprehensive roadmap to bring these assets to market.

Following this initial rollout, Phase Two will onboard institutional real estate projects. Phase Three will open the platform to both retail and institutional real estate projects, enabling them to submit and tokenize projects aligned with their respective investment profiles.

ForteXchain leverages Fasset’s existing regulatory licenses, which provide secure access to high-growth markets such as the UAE, Indonesia, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Turkey, while Zand Bank the UAE-based AI-powered bank offering institutional-grade digital asset custody will act as the custody partner, responsible for safeguarding investor assets and funds.

“With global real estate valued at over $300 trillion, tokenization unlocks new opportunities for wealth creation and democratizes access to investment,” said Daniel Ahmed, COO and Co-Founder of Fasset. “Fasset is proud to support ForteXchain with our technology and licensing expertise, enabling secure and compliant access to tokenized real estate.”

ForteXchain operates on Fasset’s digital platform. Users begin by completing identity verification (KYC) to ensure compliance and security. Once verified, users can purchase digital tokens representing shares in specific properties. These tokens can be traded on a regulated marketplace offering liquidity rarely available in traditional real estate markets.

ForteXchain’s initial target markets include the UAE, Indonesia, Malaysia, and select European countries. Future expansion plans include Bahrain, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Turkey, and South America. Real estate tokenization will eventually migrate to Own, a blockchain developed by Fasset specifically for Real-World Asset (RWA) transactions, following its mainnet launch in late 2025.

Recently, UAE regulated, Tokinvest, a marketplace for real-world asset (RWA) investing, and Zand Bank, partnered to transform the way investors access high-value assets through tokenization.

Tokinvest and UAE Zand Bank partner to tokenize the world of investing

Tokinvest and UAE Zand Bank partner to tokenize the world of investing

UAE regulated, Tokinvest, a marketplace for real-world asset (RWA) investing, and Zand Bank, the UAE’s first fully licensed, AI-powered bank and a regulated digital asset custodian have partnered to transform the way investors access high-value assets through tokenization.

As per the press release, the partnership will offer fully integrated solutions for tokenized real world assets including design, issuance, custody and trading. Tokinvest and Zand Bank are paving the way for a more accessible, liquid, and transparent investment ecosystem. By combining Zand Bank’s regulated custodial services with Tokinvest’s expertise in tokenised investments, this partnership offers a secure, compliant, and scalable model for the next generation of real-world asset investing.

Tokinvest and Zand Bank will enable investors, both institutional and individual, to gain fractional exposure to premium assets without the high barriers to entry. All the transactions will be fully compliant with UAE’s regulations, while asset owners and issuers will be able to raise funds efficiently from a broader global investor base.

Scott Thiel, CEO & Co-Founder of Tokinvest, commented, “This isn’t just a partnership—it’s a game-changer. Together with Zand Bank, we’re building the future of tokenised investing, making it easier, safer, and more accessible for everyone. The old barriers—high capital requirements, complex legal structures, limited liquidity—are being broken down. Dubai is at the forefront of this transformation, and this collaboration reinforces our commitment to giving investors access to exclusive opportunities in a way that’s fully regulated, transparent, and seamless.”

The collaboration will support issuers in creating, listing, and trading tokenized assets across multiple asset classes, including real estate, funds, and commodities.

Michael Chan, CEO of Zand Bank, added, “Zand Bank is proud to lead the way in the digital economy by offering innovative banking products alongside our institutional-grade custodial solutions. Our collaboration with Tokinvest showcases our commitment to providing secure and transformative financial services that bridge traditional finance with the digital asset world. We are committed to delivering seamless, transparent, and accessible investment opportunities, setting new benchmarks for innovation and security in the tokenized asset market.”

Previously Zand Bank had signed a partnership with Mantra Chain for tokenizing real world assets. Since then Mantra Chain’s OM Token has faced its own downward decline.

Zand Bank continues to forge ahead with new partnerships

UAE fully licensed digital bank Zand, has collaborated with UAE Web3 financing platform Klickl. This came after Zand Bank announced that it was launching its licensed digital asset custody services. In addition Zand announced it would be launching Zand’s AED-backed stablecoin which will further enhance the bank’s ability to integrate TradFi and DeFi, reinforcing its leadership in the digital assets landscape.

In 2023, UAE based Abu Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) and Zand Bank, partnered to offer preferential banking services and efficient bank account opening for ADGM-licensed entities, including SMEs, virtual assets companies, funds, and corporations. Since then it has become the go to bank for crypto exchanges, and other Web3 entities when it comes to crypto banking related services.

UAE Zand Bank launches its crypto custodial services

UAE Zand Bank launches its crypto custodial services

UAE regulated digital Bank Zand has announced that it the first UAE bank to provide its institutional-grade Digital Asset Custody services under its banking license.

According to the LinkedIn post, “The groundbreaking offering which has been designed for corporate and institutional clients, ensures top-tier security, with private keys protected in onshore UAE Hardware Security Modules (HSMs) to meet the highest global standards.”

Zand is also offering the Zand Vault Cold Wallet crypto custody solution.

The digital Bank is also offering insurance coverage, multi signature and threshold signature schemes as well as regulatory oversight from the UAE Central Bank as well as Dubai Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority.

Zand is already well established in the UAE crypto ecosystem, as it offers crypto exchanges banking services.

In January 2025, Zand Bank partnered with Klickl after they announced they would be launching their digital asset custodial services. The Bank has also noted that it will be launching an AED stablecoin in the future while it enhances the bank’s ability to integrate TradFi and DeFi.

Other digital banks in the UAE are entering the crypto foray. Already Mbank has launched its first regulated AED stablecoin, while Liv Bank is now offering crypto trading services.

Mbank also launched Jaywan Cards, the UAE’s first National Debit Card, on its blockchain enabled Mbank Wallet platform.

UAE Zand bank signs up new collaboration

UAE Zand bank signs up new collaboration

UAE fully licensed digital bank Zand, has yet again signed up a new collaboration. This time it is with UAE Web3 financing platform Klickl. This comes weeks after Zand Bank announced that it was launching its licensed digital asset custody services. This came after receiving approval from the Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority. In addition Zand announced it would be launching Zand’s AED-backed stablecoin which will further enhance the bank’s ability to integrate TradFi and DeFi, reinforcing its leadership in the digital assets landscape.

In 2023, UAE based Abu Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) and Zand Bank, partnered to offer preferential banking services and efficient bank account opening for ADGM-licensed entities, including SMEs, virtual assets companies, funds, and corporations. Since then it has become the go to bank for crypto exchanges, and other Web3 entities when it comes to crypto banking related services.

By leveraging Zand’s banking products and solutions, Klickl is poised to streamline its business processes, optimize financial management, and drive innovation within the Web3 ecosystem.

Michael Chan, CEO of Zand, commented, “We are pleased to announce our collaboration with Klickl International, aligning with the UAE’s bold vision to accelerate the digital economy. At Zand, we are dedicated to delivering seamless and secure banking experiences through continuous innovation, forward-thinking, and a client-first approach.”

Michael Zhao, CEO of Klickl International, added, “Partnering with Zand Bank marks a pivotal moment in our journey towards reshaping the digital finance landscape. With Zand’s support, we are unlocking new possibilities for businesses and consumers, driving meaningful change in the industry.”

Zand Bank now a licensed crypto custodian in UAE

Zand Bank now a licensed crypto custodian in UAE

UAE based Zand Bank, an AI powered digital bank, has received a full VASP license from Dubai’s virtual assets regulatory authority (VARA) allowing it to offer crypto custodial services. The license allows Zand to offer crypto and digital asset custodial services to institutional investors and qualified investors.

Zand, the AI-powered bank for the digital economy and first fully licensed all-digital bank in the United Arab Emirates was founded to support the digital economy and bridge the gap between Traditional Finance (TradFi) and Decentralized Finance (DeFi).

Mohamed Alabbar, Chairman of Zand, commented: “This approval from VARA is a milestone for Zand and the UAE’s digital economy. It reflects our commitment to bold innovation and sustainable growth. Our mission is to establish Zand as a cornerstone of the UAE’s evolving financial landscape, contributing to the nation’s ambition to be a global financial powerhouse.”

Michael Chan, CEO of Zand, added: “We would like to extend a heartfelt token of appreciation to VARA for their continued support of Zand. Our Digital Asset Custody service is a significant step in UAE banking. By providing institutional-grade security for digital assets, we are equipping our clients with the tools they need to thrive in the digital economy. The upcoming launch of Zand’s AED-backed stablecoin will further enhance our ability to integrate TradFi and DeFi, reinforcing our leadership in this space.”

Zand Bank has been chosen by several crypto exchanges and brokers who are working in the UAE as their digital banking partner. With Zand’s new crypto custodial license, VARA would have licensed three crypto custodians, Zand, Hex Trust, and Komainu.

Zand Bank has been growing its presence and offering within the UAE and GCC region. It has signed several partnerships over the past year, the last being with Paymentology.

Paymentology and Zand will enable fintech entities to thrive by offering a range of specialized services, including BIN-sponsorship, virtual IBANs, and Client Money Accounts. These services are designed to help fintech entities launch and scale faster, providing them with the infrastructure to bring their solutions to market efficiently.

The timing aligns with the UAE government’s push to establish a strong digital economy through the UAE Digital Economy Strategy, which aims to double the sector’s contribution to the nation’s GDP from 9.7% (April 2022) to 19.4% over the next decade.

Additionally, IDA, a Hong Kong-based stablecoin issuer, also partnered with UAE Zand Bank, to offer cost-effective and efficient cross-border transactions across the Belt and Road regions and BRICS Plus. As per the press release both entities aim to provide businesses with streamlined 24/7 digital payments.

Updated Dec 14th with quotes

UAE Zand Digital bank, Alibaba and Ant Digital work to offer AI, blockchain, and digital payment solutions

UAE Zand Digital bank, Alibaba and Ant Digital work to offer AI, blockchain, and digital payment solutions

UAE based Zand Bank, regulated digital bank is collaborating with Alibaba Cloud, digital technology and intelligence backbone of Alibaba Group and Ant Digital Technologies in the Middle East region to focus on Generative AI use cases, blockchain, and Fintech solutions including Real World Assets, E-Wallet, mPaas and other services. 

Michael Chan, CEO at Zand commented, ”We are thrilled to collaborate with Alibaba Cloud and Ant Digital Technologies to accelerate the applications of Generative AI, Blockchain and Payment Technology. This partnership represents a step forward in our journey to use generative AI to build Zand Bank’s AI Agent platform to boost the productivity of customer support, compliance and coding. This collaboration supports our AI powered banking businesses and UAE’s Digital Economy Strategy to double the sector’s contribution to the nation’s GDP over the next decade.”

Eric Wan, General Manager of the Middle East, Turkey and Africa, Alibaba Cloud Intelligence said, “As digital technologies are reshaping how we live and work in the era of AI, we are thrilled to join hands with Zand Bank in accelerating the adoption of advanced digital technologies such as Generative AI, Blockchain, and cutting-edge payment solutions in the Middle East. As a leading cloud service provider, Alibaba Cloud is committed to supporting local businesses in the region on their digital transformation journey through our robust infrastructure and innovative solutions. Together with Zand Bank, we look forward to shaping a more digitally-enabled future in the Middle East.”

Lily Peng, General Manager of International Business at Ant Digital Technologies, stated, “As our technology, products and business are going global, we are thrilled to collaborate with Zand Bank, a prominent banking group with extensive influence in the Middle East region. We will provide one-stop digital banking solutions, technology products such as mPaaS, ZOLOZ, and SOFA in close collaboration with Alibaba Cloud. Together with Zand Bank, we aim to explore the vast potential of the Middle East in the digital economy. “

Recently, IDA, a Hong Kong-based stablecoin issuer, partnered with UAE Zand Bank, to offer cost-effective and efficient cross-border transactions across the Belt and Road regions and BRICS Plus. As per the press release both entities aim to provide businesses with streamlined 24/7 digital payments.

UAE Zand Bank at the center of a BRICS stablecoin

UAE Zand Bank at the center of a BRICS stablecoin

IDA, a Hong Kong-based stablecoin issuer, has partnered with UAE Zand Bank, the first fully licensed all-digital bank to offer cost-effective and efficient cross-border transactions across the Belt and Road regions and BRICS Plus. As per the press release both entities aim to provide businesses with streamlined 24/7 digital payments.

Michael Chan, CEO at Zand Bank commented: “We are excited to partner with IDA. Together, we are committed to strengthening connectivity between the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and China, fostering greater economic collaboration and opportunities for growth. By leveraging blockchain technology and AI, we are making cross-border payments more efficient, reliable, and accessible for everyone.”

IDA is a digital asset technology company to spearhead the widespread adoption of blockchain finance and to empower businesses to seamlessly integrate between Web2 and Web3. HKDA, a fiat-referenced stablecoin built on public blockchain protocols, will be the first product launched by IDA. HKDA is designed to drive enhanced digital connectivity for seamless commerce and payments between Hong Kong and global markets, 24/7/365. To maintain the highest level of security and stability, all circulating HKDA will always be fully backed by at least 100% reserve assets in regulated Hong Kong based authorized institutions.

Commenting on this partnership, Sean Lee, Co-founder and CSO at IDA said: “We are thrilled to partner with Zand Bank as this partnership aligns with the broader goals of financial innovation and digital transformation in the Middle East and Asia, positioning both companies at the forefront of the fintech revolution. The integration of stablecoins into cross-border payments promises to bring unprecedented transparency and stability, ensuring users can confidently transact with fiat-referenced digital currencies, and provides convenience for businesses which would like to access the Belt and Road countries.”

In subsequent phases, IDA will also launch key products denominated in other US Dollar (USD) pegged currencies with ecosystem partners across regulated financial institutions and Web3 platforms.

The UAE Central Bank recently regulated stablecoins in the country, allowing for the issuance of AED stablecoins for payments for good and services in the country.

In addition AECoin recently received in principle approval from UAE Central Bank, while Tether works to launch its AED Stablecoin in Q1 of 2025.

Zand Bank is a leading digital bank in the UAE that is utilized by various crypto exchanges and VASPs.

UAE Zand Bank enters the realm of Blockchain and AI

UAE Zand Bank enters the realm of Blockchain and AI

UAE Zand Bank, UAE’s first digital only bank has subscribed to Infosys Finacle Solutions, a wholly owned subsidiary of Infosys suite to power its corporate banking services and enable it to innovate and integrate solutions on Blockchain and AI.

The deployment of Infosys Finacle’s advanced cloud-native solutions on Microsoft Azure is a testament to Zand’s commitment to provide a customer-centric, future-ready banking experience, underpinned by the latest in AI and predictive analytics.

The Finacle Corporate Banking Solution Suite’s modular framework and expansive suite of features, including an array of Open APIs, will significantly accelerate the launch of innovative services, supporting Zand’s objective of continuous innovation and commitment to customer delight.

Infosys Finacle enables Zand’s capability to assimilate and process a vast array of data, equips it to partner with sophisticated analytics platforms, thereby offering cutting-edge services to its customers.

The collaboration enables Zand to innovate and integrate emergent technologies like AI, blockchain, and digital asset management and drive a competitive advantage in the evolving landscape of digital finance.

Michael Chan, Chief Executive Officer of Zand, said, “We are delighted to announce our adoption of the Finacle modular core banking system. This strategic move empowers us to fortify our position at the forefront of innovation, enabling seamless deployment of digital assets, AI, and blockchain technologies. Embracing the future, we are poised to redefine banking experiences and drive unparalleled value for our customers.”

Sajit Vijayakumar, Chief Business Officer, Infosys Finacle, said, “A digital revolution is shaking up the corporate banking sector, paving the way for modern, customer-centric models. We are delighted that Zand, as a trailblazer in this domain, has chosen Infosys Finacle for their ambitious project to redefine corporate banking excellence. We are committed to enabling Zand, fast-track its journey towards offering differentiated customer-centric and world-class corporate banking services. Our collaboration with the bank is yet another testimony to the flexibility of the Infosys Finacle Corporate Banking Suite and the enduring trust that banks in the Gulf Cooperation Council place in us.”

ZAND Bank and ADGM partnered sometime back to offer preferential services to virtual asset service providers.