UAE’s Stable Politics Foster Crypto-Friendly Environment over US, Says Komodo CTO

As a researcher with a background in blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies, I have followed the developments in the regulatory landscape of various countries closely. Based on my findings and personal experience, I share Kadan Stadelmann’s opinion that the UAE is more supportive of the crypto sector than the United States.


Kadan Stadelmann, the CTO of crypto and blockchain platform Komodo, asserts that the UAE offers a more favorable environment for the cryptocurrency industry compared to the United States. He attributes this advantage to the UAE’s greater political stability, enabling these businesses to thrive.

Komodo CTO Praises UAE Monarchy and Low Crime Rate

In a recent interview with CryptoNews, Stadelmann highlighted the UAE’s monarchy as a significant advantage, providing political stability and eliminating the obstacles that may arise from frequent policy shifts instigated by successive democratic governments.

The UAE government, known for its political stability and monarchy, is actively creating a welcoming environment for cryptocurrencies. Businesses providing crypto-related services are encouraged to apply for Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) licenses issued by the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). In recent times, various companies have been granted these licenses. For instance, Binance and Crypto.com obtained full crypto licenses in April, while Deribit received a conditional VASP license and is planning to move its headquarters to Dubai.

Stadelmann noted that the UAE’s minimal crime level ensures a secure setting for commercial expansion, while commending the nation’s firm stance on enforcing legal penalties against wrongdoing.

As an analyst, I’ve noticed some criticism being leveled at those in power for allegedly falling short in their support of the crypto industry. Consequently, numerous crypto projects are reconsidering their business locations, with destinations such as the UAE, Europe, Latin America, and Southeast Asia emerging as popular choices due to their more favorable regulatory climates. I’ve heard it put this way: “In the face of an unfriendly environment in certain jurisdictions, crypto projects are seeking refuge where they can thrive.”

In my opinion, it would be beneficial to involve industry professionals in this matter. However, I must admit that the current regulatory body seems composed mainly of individuals with little experience or expertise in the subject matter at hand.

US Should Stem Crypto Brain Drain

Based on Stadelmann’s perspective, the United States possesses a rich pool of blockchain knowledge that regulatory bodies can utilize. By incorporating this expertise into legal frameworks, regulations can foster innovation while safeguarding investors and preventing unlawful applications of the technology. He advocates for regulators to reconsider their current strategies in search of more equitable approaches or risk losing talent to more welcoming environments.

“Following decades of navigating regulatory complexities, one can grow weary of the process. This seems to be our current predicament.”

Amsterdam-based Stadelmann is planning a move to the UAE due to growing crypto unfavorable conditions in the Netherlands. Several other crypto businesses have made similar decisions recently for the same reason. Last year, Binance, a major crypto exchange, announced its departure from the Dutch market because it couldn’t obtain a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) license. A few months later, Gemini followed suit and exited the Netherlands due to regulatory demands enforced by De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB). In a statement to users, Gemini expressed intent to adhere to EU crypto regulations as outlined under the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) and potentially reconsider its return to the Netherlands.

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2024-05-10 16:48