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Policy & Legal Updates
Source: CryptoRank

Kraken Parent Payward Wins Full Dubai Crypto License from VARA

Dubai's Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority has granted Full Market Approval to Payward FZCO, the parent company entity of cryptocurrency exchange Kraken. The license authorizes Payward to provide broker-dealer, management, and investment services to retail, professional, and institutional clients. Kraken plans to launch UAE services in the coming weeks, featuring UAE dirham trading pairs and direct AED funding.

Industry News
Source: Invezz

Gold Holds Below $4,200 as China Buying Offsets $10 Billion Short Positions

Spot gold traded at $4,185.69 an ounce as trend-following funds accumulated an estimated $10 billion net short position. Concurrently, China's central bank extended its gold buying streak to 23 consecutive months, adding approximately 23 tonnes in September. Analysts note that structural accumulation by central banks is offsetting speculative selling ahead of key US inflation data.

Policy & Legal Updates
Source: Gulf News

Dubai Business Setup Requires Cross-Border Tax and Compliance Beyond Just Trade Licenses

International founders relocating to Dubai must address complex cross-border banking, tax residency, and ongoing compliance requirements beyond simply securing a trade license, Gulf News reported. While the UAE imposes no personal income tax and maintains a 9 percent corporate tax above Dh375,000, 0 percent corporate relief requires meeting strict qualifying criteria or Small Business Relief thresholds. In addition, dual structures involving US LLCs carry filing obligations and potential penalties of $25,000 if not managed properly.

Industry News
Source: صوت الإمارات

UAE National Bank Assets Surpass AED 5.15 Trillion in August 2026

National banks in the UAE posted double-digit annual increases across key performance indicators in August 2026, according to Central Bank of the UAE data published by Voice of Emirates. National bank assets rose 13.6% year-on-year to exceed AED 5.15 trillion, while total credit expanded 19.2% to AED 2.663 trillion. Deposits at national banks increased 14.2% to AED 3.181 trillion over the same period.

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