3iQ Secures In-Principal Approval for Digital Assets in Abu Dhabi's Financial Market

3iQ's Significant Milestone in Abu Dhabi

On October 12, 2026, 3iQ Corp., widely recognized as a frontrunner in digital asset investment solutions, announced a significant achievement. Its UAE-based affiliate, 3iQ Middle East Ltd, has obtained In-Principal Approval (IPA) for a Category 4 license from the Financial Services Authority (FSRA) at Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). This development is pivotal as it situates 3iQ as a leader in digital asset management in the Middle East.

This approval signifies a step forward in 3iQ's mission to establish a regulated presence in key digital asset hubs globally. The company's innovative Managed Account Platform (QMAP) is highlighted in this evolution. The platform has already attracted $100 million in sovereign-linked seed funding, showcasing institutional investors' growing interest in digital asset opportunities.

3iQ's CEO, Pascal St-Jean, expressed enthusiasm about the UAE's potential as a digital asset hub, reinforcing the region's advanced regulatory landscape that safeguards investors. He emphasized the firm’s vision to provide cutting-edge investment solutions and the role of their partnership with Further Asset Management, a leading UAE-based digital asset manager.

The appointment of Rachel Pether as the Head of Middle East for 3iQ underlines the company's commitment to this venture. Rachel brings a wealth of experience from her previous position at Mubadala, a prominent sovereign investor in Abu Dhabi. Describing this milestone, she noted that it reflects productive collaboration with ADGM's robust regulatory environment, positioning 3iQ to attract further institutional capital and bolster its presence in the Middle East.

Arvind Ramamurthy, Chief Market Development Officer at ADGM, congratulated 3iQ for achieving its IPA. He recognizes it as an essential milestone for the firm as it aims to solidify its regulatory foothold within ADGM’s vibrant digital asset ecosystem. The supportive regulatory framework in Abu Dhabi is designed to attract international firms, signaling a broader trend towards digitization in the financial sector.

3iQ is not new to the digital realm; established in 2012, the firm was among the first to list Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs on significant stock exchanges. Their innovative approach in creating QMAP reflects a commitment to pioneer solutions that integrate traditional finance with digital opportunities, demonstrating a strong track record in attracting sovereign wealth and institutional investments.

Despite the volatility often associated with the world of digital assets, 3iQ continues to position itself as a trusted partner for investors seeking regulated investment opportunities. As the global marketplace matures, the company's initiatives in Abu Dhabi signal a proactive approach to bringing digital asset investment management to accredited investors around the world.

Looking Ahead

The achievement of IPA at ADGM not only heightens 3iQ's visibility in the marketplace but also aligns with the increasing global acceptance of digital assets as a legitimate investment class. With the support from the regulatory framework and a growing community of participants, 3iQ is expected to lead the charge in integrating digital assets more deeply into the traditional finance landscape.

In conclusion, the strategic moves by 3iQ in the UAE reinforce their role as pioneers in the digital asset investment arena, setting precedents for future developments in other financial hubs worldwide.