Animoca Opens Doors for Institutions in Web3 Following ADGM Authorization

Animoca Brands, a prominent player in Web3 investment and infrastructure, has

to function as a regulated fund manager within the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). This milestone represents a major advance in the company’s efforts to expand throughout the Middle East, a region it considers crucial for institutional involvement in Web3 and digital assets. While this approval is not yet final, it of creating compliant investment pathways for international institutions, further cementing its reputation as a leading industry supporter with over 600 Web3 investments in its portfolio.

This provisional approval enables Animoca to move forward with managing collective investment funds from ADGM, provided it fulfills the necessary capital, compliance, and operational criteria for full licensing

. Omar Elassar, Animoca’s managing director for the Middle East, highlighted the UAE’s rising status as a Web3 center, to develop “regulated, institutional channels for engagement” while continuing to collaborate with founders and businesses across the sector. The company already operates in Dubai and has previously indicated plans to pursue a Nasdaq listing, reflecting its goal to expand institutional-grade services.

ADGM’s regulatory environment has become increasingly attractive to blockchain and digital asset companies seeking a structured, rules-based setting. The authority’s approval of Animoca aligns with its ongoing growth initiatives,

like KKR, which recently established a presence in ADGM. KKR’s expansion, part of its broader Middle East approach, underscores the emirate’s role as a financial gateway connecting East and West, with . For Animoca, this regulatory support enhances its ability to leverage the UAE’s robust economic base and strategic position, making ADGM a central element in its worldwide operations.

Since the approval is conditional, Animoca must still meet operational and capital standards before obtaining a full license. Nonetheless, this preliminary approval demonstrates ADGM’s dedication to encouraging innovation while upholding regulatory standards. Animoca’s move into regulated fund management is in line with the increasing entry of institutional investors into Web3, a field previously led by retail participants. By utilizing ADGM’s framework, the company seeks to simplify capital raising and fund management, addressing a key need within the Web3 landscape.