UAE SCA Introduces ‘Finfluencer’ License to Regulate Financial Advice – Coincu

In a notable move on May 28, 2025, the UAE’s Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) launched the region’s first “Finfluencer” license.

The license, aimed at regulating individuals who give financial advice via digital platforms, seeks to boost market transparency and investor protection. The initiative signals SCA’s strategy to adapt regulatory frameworks to the digital financial landscape.

UAE Pioneers Digital Financial Advice Oversight with Finfluencer License

SCA’s introduction of the “Finfluencer” license targets individuals providing investment recommendations on digital platforms. H.E. Waleed Saeed Al Awadhi emphasized the initiative aims to redefine regulators’ roles in the digital economy. By introducing this framework, SCA aspires to enhance transparency and foster market integrity.

Individuals offering financial advice through social platforms must now obtain the license, aligning with compliance standards applied to traditional financial advisors. Al Awadhi describes this as a strategic move to nurture a disciplined financial environment. H.E. Waleed Saeed Al Awadhi, CEO, Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), stated, “Introducing the Finfluencer license is not merely a regulatory measure; it is a strategic move to redefine the role of regulators in the digital economy.”

Market responses highlight the SCA’s alignment with global regulatory trends. Experts cite the initiative as a welcome step towards establishing clear governance for digital financial content. The financial incentives, which include waiving registration and renewal fees for three years, aim to encourage adoption of this framework.

Potential Boost to Investor Confidence: A New Regulatory Benchmark

The initiative is a landmark regulatory milestone, contrasting with past regulatory approaches focused on traditional financial advisors. This step indicates an evolution in regulatory models, crafted to address the rise of digital influences in finance.

Experts predict the regulatory changes could lead to enhanced investor confidence and market stability. Historical patterns suggest that transparent regulations often attract foreign investments, boosting economic prospects in adopting regions. The SCA seeks to set a benchmark for digital content regulation, aiming for a globally respected financial hub status in the UAE.