Laser Digital Secures Historic OTC Crypto License in Dubai

Laser Digital, the digital asset arm of Japanese banking giant Nomura, has made headlines by becoming the first company in Dubai to receive a license for offering over-the-counter (OTC) crypto derivatives to institutional clients.

The license was granted under the pilot regime of Dubai’s Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA), marking a key step in the region’s mission to become a regulated crypto hub. This development places Laser Digital at the forefront of compliant institutional crypto offerings in the UAE.

Bringing ISDA Standards to Crypto Derivatives

With this approval, Laser Digital can now provide legally enforceable OTC crypto options to professional clients. All transactions will be conducted under International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) agreements, the industry standard in traditional finance for mitigating legal and credit risk.

According to Laser Digital, this ensures transparency, compliance, and trust in its offerings—an essential foundation as digital assets continue to move into the institutional finance space.

Starting Simple: Vanilla Options on Bitcoin

Laser Digital is taking a “back-to-basics” approach by launching medium-term vanilla options on major cryptocurrencies, starting with Bitcoin. These simple, fixed-term instruments allow institutional investors to gain crypto exposure without entering complex derivative structures.

Chief Product Officer Johannes Woolard stated that the company chose to start with straightforward products to build trust and align with regulatory expectations before expanding its offerings.

Future Plans: Lending, Spot, and Structured Products

The firm plans to expand its product suite in phases, introducing crypto lending, spot trading services, and structured yield products. All additional services will be subject to regulatory approval, ensuring continued compliance under Dubai’s evolving crypto laws.

Laser Digital currently operates out of Dubai, London, and Tokyo, and its expansion in Dubai supports the growing demand among Middle Eastern institutions for secure and regulated digital asset investments.

Dubai’s Vision for a Regulated Crypto Future

Dubai has emerged as a global leader in digital asset regulation through VARA, which is helping attract institutional capital while maintaining strong oversight. This license for Laser Digital is a testament to Dubai’s commitment to building a sustainable and internationally respected crypto ecosystem.