DIGITAL ASSETS

a more targeted approach, overseeing seven licensed platforms whilst expanding coverage to include derivatives and margin lending.

This strategy provides exchanges with a carefully regulated gateway into Asian markets, complete with institutionalgrade compliance standards and access to China-adjacent liquidity pools.

Dubai has positioned itself differently, with its Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority operating a tiered framework that emphasises rapid approvals for virtual asset service providers. Combined with zero corporate tax in free zones and dollar-linked on-ramps, the approach has established Dubai as the de facto clearinghouse for Middle East and North Africa operations.

The United Kingdom and Singapore round out the leading jurisdictions, with the UK advancing draft legislation to bring crypto exchanges under Financial Conduct Authority oversight while Singapore’ s Monetary Authority provides predictable licensing through its Payment Services Act framework, enhanced by 2025 capital-treatment updates that deliver deep banking connectivity for Asia-Pacific operations.

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