Emirates NBD expands into crypto with Liv X trading platform

Emirates NBD, Dubai’s government-owned bank, is making its entry into the cryptocurrency market through its digital banking arm, Liv. The company announced in a press release that Liv has officially launched cryptocurrency trading services via its Liv X app, enabling customers to buy, hold, and sell digital assets.

The service, which became available on March 5, is powered by Aquanow, a licensed crypto asset service provider.

Liv X to support five major cryptocurrencies at launch

At launch, the platform will support Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), XRP, and Cardano (ADA).

Liv has partnered with Zodia Custody, a regulated crypto custodian that received a strategic investment from Emirates NBD in late 2024 to enhance security.

UAE’s crypto boom

The UAE has positioned itself as a leading hub for cryptocurrency adoption, driven by progressive regulations and increasing institutional and retail interest.

A survey by International Financial Group Ltd found that one in ten UAE residents has invested in digital assets, with Emiratis showing the highest level of interest.

Meanwhile, a Chainalysis report estimates that between July 2023 and June 2024, the UAE processed over $30 billion in cryptocurrency transactions, ranking it among the top 40 countries globally and the third-largest crypto economy in MENA.

“With the highest crypto adoption rate in the UAE, we are keen to introduce our own virtual asset offering to capitalize on this trend,” said Marwan Hadi, Group Head of Retail Banking and Wealth Management at Emirates NBD.