Dubai, UAE – February 12, 2026 — Flipster FZE, the Dubai‑based arm of global cryptocurrency trading platform Flipster, has achieved a major regulatory milestone by securing in‑principle approval (IPA) from the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). This approval marks an important step in Flipster’s strategy to bring regulated, compliant digital asset services to the Middle East and beyond.
The VARA IPA, formally recorded under reference IPA/26/01/004, will enable Flipster FZE to progress toward fully offering regulated virtual asset services under VARA’s stringent framework, with spot trading positioned as the initial product offering.
A Strategic Move Toward Regulatory Compliance
The in‑principle approval reflects Flipster’s long‑term commitment to operating within established regulatory frameworks in key global markets, particularly in the rapidly evolving digital asset ecosystem of the UAE and the broader Middle East. By aligning with VARA’s clear and structured regulatory regime, Flipster aims to provide safer, more transparent access to cryptocurrencies for both retail and institutional participants.
Benjamin Grolimund, General Manager of Flipster FZE, underscored the significance of the approval, calling it a “meaningful vote of confidence” in the company’s dedication to the region. He emphasized that the Middle East has become a blueprint for digital asset regulation and adoption, with VARA’s framework striking a balance between innovation and security.
Enhancing Compliance and Security Infrastructure
To support its regulatory readiness, Flipster has strengthened its compliance infrastructure, including a partnership with blockchain analytics firm Chainalysis. This collaboration enhances Flipster’s capabilities in transaction monitoring, risk management, and anti‑money‑laundering controls — all critical elements for meeting VARA’s high compliance standards.
Middle East Expansion and Future Plans
Flipster first revealed plans to enter the Middle Eastern market in May 2025, coinciding with the appointment of Benjamin Grolimund — a fintech executive with leadership experience at Rain and Bloomberg. The UAE’s evolving regulatory clarity and maturing digital asset ecosystem have played a central role in positioning the region as a strategic hub for Flipster’s global expansion.
As Flipster FZE prepares to transition from in‑principle approval to full operational status, the move highlights the growing trend of crypto platforms prioritizing regulatory compliance to foster wider adoption and build trust in digital markets.
