ADGM rolls out new digital asset rules: What crypto firms need to know in 2025

Abu Dhabi Global Market’s (ADGM) Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) has announced it has implemented new amendments to its Digital Asset Regulatory Framework, with the updated rules coming into effect immediately.

The changes are aimed at streamlining how Virtual Assets (VAs) like cryptocurrencies are approved for use within ADGM as Accepted Virtual Assets (AVAs). The amendments also include refinements to capital requirements and fees for authorised firms conducting regulated activities related to digital assets.

The revised framework introduces:

The introduction of a formal product intervention power also gives the FSRA more flexibility to respond to emerging risks in the digital asset space, particularly in relation to investor protection and market integrity. This tool aligns with global trends among financial regulators adopting more agile frameworks for supervising digital finance.

Meanwhile, the continued prohibition on privacy tokens and algorithmic stablecoins underscores the FSRA’s cautious stance on assets that may raise compliance or systemic risk concerns.

The amendments follow industry consultation via Consultation Paper No. 11 of 2024 and are now reflected in updated FSRA guidance on the regulation of virtual asset activities in ADGM.

Emmanuel Givanakis, CEO of the FSRA, described the changes as a step forward in providing regulatory certainty while supporting responsible innovation in financial services.

The move is part of ADGM’s broader effort to position itself as a regional hub for digital asset activities, ensuring its rules evolve alongside market developments and rising institutional interest in digital finance.