Standard Chartered Bank Obtains VARA License, Launches Cryptocurrency Trading Services for High-Net-Worth Clients in the UAE

Odaily reports that Standard Chartered Bank has announced the launch of cryptocurrency trading services for high-net-worth clients in the UAE, having obtained a license from the Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority. Eligible clients can buy and sell BTC and ETH directly through their existing bank accounts without needing a separate wallet or third-party trading platform, with asset custody and trade settlement handled by Standard Chartered Bank. The service is launched in partnership with Zodia Markets and is initially available only to professional investors in the UAE.