Laser Digital, Backed by Nomura, Secures Dubai Crypto Derivatives License – A Game Changer for Institutional Adoption

Dubai just handed Wall Street a golden ticket to the crypto casino.

Laser Digital—Nomura's crypto arm—scored regulatory approval for derivatives trading in the emirate, positioning itself as the first institutional-grade gateway for Middle East crypto speculation.

Why it matters: While retail traders get squeezed by global regulators, the big boys are getting VIP access to leveraged bets. The Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) clearly knows who butters its bread.

The subtext: Traditional finance isn't dipping toes in crypto anymore—it's building infrastructure. Nomura's move signals that derivatives (not spot trading) remain the real money-maker for institutions.

Bonus cynicism: Nothing says 'mature market' like letting banks trade synthetic exposure to assets they still won't custody. Progress!