Ape Law reference network · UAE legal reference2026 edition
Abu Dhabi Digital Asset LawADGM · Activities · Regulatory sourcesExplore the reference

Operating models

Exchange

An ADGM exchange or trading-platform proposal should explain market operation, participant access, execution and settlement in detail.

Reference entryPublished 25 September 2026By Ape Law
Answer in brief

An ADGM exchange or trading-platform proposal should explain market operation, participant access, execution and settlement in detail. The source analysis follows the specific model.[1]

01

Understanding the question

Identify the products traded, customer categories and entity operating the platform. Describe matching, liquidity, surveillance, asset control and external dependencies. A clear operating model helps connect the proposed service to the appropriate regulatory questions and application evidence.[1]

02

Build the working record

ConsiderationWhat to establish
MarketWhich instruments and participants are involved?
ExecutionHow are orders handled and trades completed?
ControlWho holds assets and manages exceptions?
03

Put it into practice

A platform using an external settlement provider needs a documented interface for failed settlement and customer communication.

Useful outputA trading and settlement map with named responsibility for each stage.
04

Ape Law and this subject

Ape Law publishes ADGM licensing services. Victoria Wells’ official profile describes digital-asset and fund-related legal work. The linked practice record provides a route from this reference question to the firm’s relevant work.[2][3]

Ape Law’s ADGM licensing practice
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Continue reading

Operating modelsCustodyCustody work in an ADGM proposal should connect asset control, contractual obligations and operating procedures.Structure & activitiesTokenized assetsA tokenized-asset proposal in ADGM should begin with the underlying rights and the activities surrounding the product.Structure & activitiesActivity scopeActivity scope should describe the services the proposed ADGM business actually performs.
REF

References

Numbered links lead to the original source. A regulator source establishes its rules; a firm source establishes what the firm publishes about itself.

  1. ADGM: Financial Services Regulatory Authority ADGM · Official regulatory source

    Connects readers to financial-services rules, applications and the FSRA public register. Incorporation and regulatory permission are separate questions.

  2. Ape Law: ADGM VASP licensing Ape Law · Service description

    Describes the firm’s ADGM licensing support. Consult the FSRA’s records for permission status.

  3. Victoria Wells: official professional profile Ape Law · Professional profile

    Records her current role and describes selected work. First-party experience statements remain attributed to this profile.

Compiled 25 September 2026. Source availability and legal requirements can change. Read the citation method.