The United Arab Emirates has introduced a new licensing requirement for individuals who create financial content online. The Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) has launched what it calls a “finfluencer” licence. This is the first licence of its kind in the region.

The licence is aimed at influencers who offer investment advice, market analysis, or financial promotions through digital channels. This includes social media, blogs, YouTube, podcasts, and webinars. It also applies to in-person events, Khaleej Times reported.

Licence Now Mandatory for Investment Content

According to the SCA, the goal is to improve transparency and protect investors. The agency wants to ensure that financial content shared online is accurate, responsible, and legally compliant.

Waleed Saeed Al Awadhi, CEO of the SCA, said: "This is a strategic step to reshape how regulators operate in the digital economy."

"SCA aspires to elevate global benchmarks of market integrity, foster transparency, and nurture a disciplined and trustworthy financial environment. The SCA positions itself as enablers of transformative change, adopting forward-thinking regulatory models that evolve with the fast-paced dynamics of the financial and investment landscape."

The licence applies to anyone in the UAE offering recommendations on buying or selling financial products. It also covers content about virtual assets, trading platforms, or investment services. Individuals who share financial analysis or forecasts must also be licensed.

You may find it interesting at FinanceMagnates.com: FCA Warns Tech Firms Not Doing Enough to Stop Illegal Forex Finfluencers.

Finfluencers Face Rules, But No Fees

To support the rollout, the SCA has waived all registration, renewal, and legal consultation fees for the next three years. This move is expected to make the process easier for content creators. Finfluencers who register must follow regulatory guidelines set by the SCA.

Source: Finance Magnates