SCA Board Reports Significant Growth And Strategic Decisions For Financial Markets In H1 2025

The Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) Board of Directors recently held its third meeting of 2025. They assessed the authority's performance indicators for the first half of the year. During this session, strategic decisions were made to boost the UAE's financial market competitiveness and align regulations with international standards. These steps are part of a broader vision for economic transformation in the country.

Al Awadhi highlighted the SCA’s dedication to reshaping the global economic system by setting regulatory benchmarks and ensuring investor protection. In the first half of 2025, there was a notable 55% increase in newly issued licences and a 60% rise in licensed companies compared to 2024. Local investment funds saw a 79% increase, leading to a remarkable 230% growth in assets under management.

The meeting also addressed unclaimed dividends and dormant accounts at brokerage firms. By mid-2025, approximately AED190 million had been distributed to rightful owners. This reflects ongoing efforts to protect investors and ensure market transparency. The Board also approved a new framework for goodwill in public joint-stock companies, recognising it as an intangible asset that includes brand strength and corporate reputation.

Registered foreign investment funds grew by 54%, while registered bond and Sukuk programme values increased by 35% compared to H1 2024. These figures underscore the SCA’s ability to attract global investments, reinforcing the UAE’s strategic position on the world investment stage.

A coordinating committee was formed, chaired by the SCA, including members from FSRA, DFSA, VARA, and industry experts like Bryan Stirewalt, Sahar Badran, and Saeed Mansour Al Awar. This committee will review draft legislation and propose amendments to enhance harmonisation between regulatory bodies, strengthening the financial ecosystem's resilience.

The Board reviewed outcomes from launching the region’s first Finfluencer registration framework. This initiative aims to enhance transparency and safeguard investors amid rapid digital financial sector changes. It marks a significant step in regulating digital economy activities.

Commitment to Economic Transformation

Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa stated, "Our vision is grounded in a firm belief in the UAE’s role as a global hub for future economic transformation, driven by the development of an integrated financial ecosystem built on innovation and regulatory excellence." This approach strengthens the UAE’s role as a key financial player actively shaping the global economic landscape.

The new goodwill framework aims to promote compliance with international accounting standards. It establishes clear valuation principles supporting boards of directors, audit committees, and external auditors while enhancing transparency and investor disclosure practices.

These initiatives highlight SCA’s leadership in advancing global financial integration through innovative practices promoting transparency and sustainability. The decisions made during this meeting reflect a commitment to maintaining robust regulatory frameworks that support economic growth and stability.

With inputs from WAM