Cantor Gains ADGM Approval to Expand Investment Banking Services in the Middle East

Cantor Gains Ground in the Middle East Investment Banking Sector

Cantor, recognized as a prominent global investment bank that is part of the Cantor Fitzgerald group, has recently announced a significant advancement in its operations within the Middle East. On May 21, 2026, the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) of the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) granted the company authorization to conduct regulated financial activities within the ADGM. This development represents a crucial milestone in Cantor's strategic expansion into the Middle Eastern market, especially following the establishment of its Abu Dhabi office in December 2025.

Sage Kelly, Co-CEO and Global Head of Investment Banking at Cantor, expressed confidence in this venture, stating, "Establishing our presence in Abu Dhabi is a testament to Cantor’s long-term commitment to strategically important markets that increasingly shape global capital flows." He emphasized the robust economic momentum in the Middle East, highlighting heightened investment activity and institutional capital formation. The move into the ADGM will enable Cantor to better serve clients seeking opportunities both locally and on international markets.

Under the leadership of Ali Khalpey, who oversees the Middle Eastern operations for investment banking and capital markets, the Abu Dhabi office is set to become a regional hub for Cantor's banking and capital market endeavors. The firm currently operates two specialized teams in the region. One team focuses on a comprehensive equities platform, which includes sales, trading, and research services tailored for sovereign funds and both local and international institutional investors active in the Middle East. Another team is dedicated to investment banking with a concentration on mergers and acquisitions as well as capital markets advisory.

Khalpey noted, "Abu Dhabi has quickly emerged as a leading international financial center and a gateway to one of the world's most dynamic investment environments." With their office in Abu Dhabi now fully operational, he expressed eagerness in enhancing relationships with clients, investors, and strategic partners throughout the region, contributing positively to the ongoing growth of the local capital markets ecosystem.

Moreover, Arvind Ramamurthy, the Chief Market Development Officer at ADGM, commented on Cantor's entry into the market, stating, "We are delighted to welcome a leading global financial institution such as Cantor into the ADGM as the firm expands its presence in the region." His remarks underscored the increasing willingness of major global financial institutions to access emerging investment opportunities in the Gulf and the broader Middle Eastern market.

About Cantor

Cantor is a premier global investment bank within the Cantor Fitzgerald group, founded in 1945. The firm boasts unparalleled sector expertise, innovative products, and customized solutions across various financial services, including investment banking, capital markets, bond and equity sales and trading, prime brokerage, research, and asset management. Headquartered in New York City, Cantor operates more than 60 offices worldwide.

For more information, visit www.cantor.com and follow them on LinkedIn or X for the latest updates from the company.