Laser Digital Gets Dubai License for Institutional Crypto Options Trading

Laser Digital, a digital asset subsidiary of Japanese financial group Nomura, has become the first entity in the United Arab Emirates to receive regulatory approval to operate an over-the-counter (OTC) trading desk for institutional-grade crypto options. The Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) granted Laser Digital a limited license under its Pilot Regime, allowing the firm to offer structured derivatives products to institutional clients [1]. This move marks a significant milestone for Dubai’s evolving regulatory landscape, reinforcing its ambition to position itself as a global leader in regulated crypto innovation [2].

The OTC desk, which will operate from Dubai, is designed to offer sophisticated investors access to hedging, yield enhancement, and volatility management strategies tailored to the crypto market. The products will be delivered under a structured and regulated framework, aligning with VARA’s objective to foster innovation while maintaining oversight. Laser Digital’s approval under the Pilot Regime also signals the regulatory body’s confidence in Dubai’s ability to manage the complexities of crypto derivatives without compromising compliance [3].

The licensing initiative is part of a broader strategy by the UAE to attract international financial players into its digital asset ecosystem. By providing a clear and structured regulatory environment, Dubai aims to differentiate itself from jurisdictions with inconsistent policies, drawing crypto firms seeking stability and institutional-grade opportunities [4]. This development also reflects the growing interest from traditional financial institutions in entering the crypto space through regulated channels, a trend that has been gaining momentum globally [5].

The approval of Laser Digital’s OTC desk is expected to bolster Dubai’s appeal as a financial hub, particularly in the context of the country’s efforts to diversify its economy beyond oil. The introduction of institutional crypto derivatives adds to the UAE’s expanding financial services sector and could further solidify its role in shaping the future of digital asset markets [6]. As more firms seek access to structured, compliant crypto solutions, Dubai’s regulatory maturity is becoming an attractive proposition for global investors and operators [7].

With this greenlight, Laser Digital is now in a position to engage directly with institutional clients, offering them tailored strategies in a market that has seen rising demand for risk management tools. The firm’s entry under a limited license represents a calculated approach to market expansion, allowing it to establish a presence in a key region while adhering to a robust regulatory framework [8].

Sources:

[1] Ground, [https://ground.news/article/nomura-backed-laser-digital-wins-regulatory-nod-for-crypto-derivatives-in-dubai](https://ground.news/article/nomura-backed-laser-digital-wins-regulatory-nod-for-crypto-derivatives-in-dubai)

[2] Cointelegraph, [https://cointelegraph.com/category/latest-news](https://cointelegraph.com/category/latest-news)

[3] X, [https://x.com/BitBlitz/status/1953199645535912234](https://x.com/BitBlitz/status/1953199645535912234)

[4] Coinlive, [https://www.coinlive.com/en/news-flash/866238](https://www.coinlive.com/en/news-flash/866238)

[5] CoinMarketCal, [https://coinmarketcal.com/en/news](https://coinmarketcal.com/en/news)

[6] CryptoRank, [https://cryptorank.io/news/feed/ca4fe-new-executive-order-to-punish-us-banks-for-dropping-crypto-customers](https://cryptorank.io/news/feed/ca4fe-new-executive-order-to-punish-us-banks-for-dropping-crypto-customers)

[7] TodayOnChain.com, [https://www.todayonchain.com/news/](https://www.todayonchain.com/news/)

[8] TodayOnChain.com, [https://www.todayonchain.com/news/article/01K20AF44EXRV4WFR7FHF1M9DV/](https://www.todayonchain.com/news/article/01K20AF44EXRV4WFR7FHF1M9DV/)