The UAE Capital Market Authority recorded a 43 percent year-on-year increase in licensed financial entities during the first nine months of 2026. Trading across the Abu Dhabi and Dubai markets reached AED 408 billion, with foreign capital accounting for 49 percent of transactions. The regulator also increased enforcement, issuing AED 12.9 million in financial fines.
Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) has concluded its third Global Media Forum, bringing together 33 journalists, including 13 from overseas markets including China, the UK, and the US. The three-day event highlighted Abu Dhabi's regulatory framework, digital economy, and cross-border investment opportunities. The forum also featured briefings on the upcoming fifth edition of Abu Dhabi Finance Week and celebrations marking ADGM's 11th anniversary.
UAE equity markets closed marginally higher on Friday, 9 October 2026, with both Dubai and Abu Dhabi benchmarks recording slim advances in a subdued session. Dubai's DFM General Index gained 0.36% to settle at 5,819.96, while Abu Dhabi's FTSE ADX General Index inched up 0.08% to finish at 9,808.52. The modest gains completed a positive weekly finish for the UAE's two main stock exchanges.
Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange Group has appointed Alex Krunic as chief capital markets officer. Krunic will support the exchange's market development agenda, product offerings, and institutional engagement. He brings over 25 years of capital markets experience, having most recently served as CEO of Kuwait Clearing Company.
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