Cantor gets FSRA approval to conduct financial activities in ADGM

By Aarav Garg

Cantor has received regulatory approval from the Abu Dhabi Global Market Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA), allowing the firm to conduct regulated financial activities within ADGM as part of its Middle East expansion strategy.

The approval, granted through a Financial Services Permission (FSP), strengthens Cantor’s ability to support cross-border investment banking and capital markets activity linking the Gulf region with international markets. The development follows the recent opening of the firm’s Abu Dhabi office, which will serve as a regional hub for its investment banking and capital markets operations.

“Establishing our presence in Abu Dhabi reflects Cantor’s long-term commitment to strategically important markets that are increasingly shaping global capital flows,” said Sage Kelly, Co-Chief Executive Officer and Global Head of Investment Banking at Cantor. “The Middle East continues to experience strong economic momentum, rising investment activity and significant institutional capital formation. Our presence within ADGM positions us to better serve clients seeking opportunities both within the region and across international markets.”

Cantor’s regional business is being led by Ali Khalpey, Head of Middle East, Investment Banking & Capital Markets. The firm currently operates dedicated equities and investment banking teams in the region, supporting sovereign wealth funds, institutional investors and corporate clients across the Middle East.

Its equities platform provides sales, trading and research capabilities for regional and global investors active in Gulf markets, while its investment banking division focuses on mergers and acquisitions, capital markets advisory and broader financing activity.

For FinTech and capital markets participants, the expansion also highlights rising demand for regulated financial infrastructure capable of supporting international capital formation, institutional trading and advisory services across the Middle East’s increasingly interconnected financial ecosystem.