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How do criminal networks move illicit funds across borders in just minutes, and what can be done to stop them? Cyber-enabled fraud has evolved into a sophisticated global threat, with industrial-scale scam compounds exploiting virtual assets, money mule networks, artificial intelligence and cross-border payment systems to generate and launder billions in illicit proceeds. In this episode of The Riffle, we explore the key findings of the Financial Action Task Force's (FATF) 2026 report, Combating End-to-End Illicit Financial Flows Linked to Scam Compounds: Applying the FATF Toolkit to the Fraud Epidemic. We discuss the expanding global reach of scam compounds, the seven-stage lifecycle of illicit financial flows, the growing role of AI and virtual assets, and the importance of real-time payment intervention, international co-operation and victim protection. As financial crime becomes increasingly complex, the FATF highlights the need to move beyond reactive detection towards proactive, intelligence-led disruption. Tune in to understand the evolving threat landscape and what it means for financial institutions, regulators and compliance professionals. Presented by 10 Leaves!

What could ADGM’s proposed business centre rules mean for operators, tenants and company service providers? In this episode of The Riffle Podcast, we explore Registration Authority Consultation Paper No. 7 of 2026—from minimum capital and insurance requirements to clearer client contracts, pricing disclosures, continuity planning and cash transaction controls. We also discuss the proposed six-month transition for existing licensed centres and the practical implications for businesses relying on serviced offices and registered addresses. Consultation closes: 6 November 2026. These proposals are not yet in force. Presented by The Riffle | 10 Leaves

In this episode of The Riffle Podcast, we explore the proposals covered in our CP6/2026 article—from higher market infrastructure fees and a new annual listing supervision charge to escalating late filing fees and updated guidance on changes in control and variations of permission. We discuss the specialist venue fees that would remain unchanged and practical steps firms should consider when reviewing their budgets, reporting controls and licensing plans. Key dates: The consultation closes on 6 November 2026, with implementation targeted for 1 January 2027, subject to rulemaking and FSRA Board approval. These proposals are not yet in force. Presented by The Riffle | 10 Leaves

In this episode of The Riffle Podcast, we explore ADGM FSRA’s proposed DeFi Risk Management Guidance and what it could mean for regulated firms engaging with decentralised finance. We unpack regulatory permissions, board accountability, client asset safeguards, risks across protocols and infrastructure, continuous monitoring, and controls over automated execution and AI agents. We also discuss why exit plans alone cannot carry a firm’s risk strategy—and why decentralised technology does not remove institutional responsibility. 📅 Consultation closes: 30 November 2026The guidance remains a proposal subject to consultation. 🎙️ Presented by 10 Leaves

What do the DFSA’s regulatory amendments mean for firms in the DIFC? In this episode of The Riffle Podcast, we explore the changes covered in our CP174 article—from consolidating prudential reporting into the redesigned B110 form to updated credit rating agency requirements for conflict assessments, disclosures and advance notice. We discuss continuing capital requirements, the deferred Crypto and Investment Token proposals, and practical steps firms should consider when reviewing their reporting processes and compliance arrangements. Key implementation dates: Prudential reporting amendments took effect on 2 October 2026, while credit rating agency amendments commence on 1 January 2027. Presented by The Riffle | 10 Leaves

In this episode of The Riffle Podcast, we unpack ADGM FSRA’s proposed DeFi Risk Management Guidance and what it could mean for regulated firms engaging with decentralised finance. We explore regulatory permissions, board accountability, client asset protection, risks across smart contracts and infrastructure, continuous monitoring, and controls over automated execution. We also discuss why exit plans alone cannot carry a firm’s risk strategy and why decentralised technology does not remove institutional responsibility. 📅 Consultation closes: 30 November 2026 🎙️ Presented by The Riffle | 10 Leaves

ADGM’s Annual Accounts Filing deadline is 30 September 2026 for entities with a 31 December 2025 financial year-end. In this episode of The Riffle Podcast, we unpack the ADGM Registration Authority’s Annual Accounts Filing Checklist 2026 and the key checks entities should complete before submission. We cover entity and account accuracy, audit requirements and exemptions, board approvals, signatures and dating requirements, as well as common issues that can lead to queries or re-filing. With the deadline approaching, this episode provides a quick, practical overview of what ADGM entities should check to help get their filing right the first time.   Presented by 10 Leaves.

In this episode of 10 Leaves Podcast, we explore how DIFC Foundations, holding companies and SPVs can help separate brand ownership from operating businesses, creating stronger governance, protecting intellectual property and supporting long-term growth. We discuss practical structuring approaches for franchising, investor participation, succession planning and regional expansion, while examining the key considerations when choosing between DIFC SPVs and private companies. Whether you’re a founder, family business, investor or adviser, this episode provides a practical overview of how DIFC structures can help retail and F&B businesses safeguard their most valuable assets and build a scalable platform for future growth. Presented By 10 Leaves!

In this episode of 10 Leaves, we explore how industrial and logistics groups can use a DIFC SPV structure to build a scalable regional asset platform while separating strategic assets from day-to-day operating activities. The discussion covers how DIFC holding companies and asset SPVs can strengthen governance, ring-fence warehouses, fleets and equipment, centralise treasury and procurement functions, support cross-border logistics operations, and improve lender visibility and financing arrangements. We also examine the differences between using a DIFC SPV and a private company, and the practical considerations when structuring regional industrial and logistics businesses. Whether you are a founder, logistics operator, family business, investor or professional adviser, this episode provides practical insights into structuring industrial and logistics assets for greater operational resilience, financing flexibility and long-term regional growth. 🎙️ Presented by 10 Leaves

In this episode of 10 Leaves Podcasts, we explore how DIFC Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) can be used to structure the ownership of high-value maritime and aviation assets such as yachts, aircraft and private jets by separating ownership, operations and financing into distinct legal layers. The discussion examines the challenges of holding these assets across multiple jurisdictions, the risks of personal ownership, and the advantages of using DIFC holding companies and dedicated SPVs to create clean title-holding vehicles. We also discuss how this approach simplifies mortgage registration, refinancing, insurance and asset transfers, while isolating operational risks and improving governance, co-ownership arrangements and succession planning for founders, family offices and high-net-worth individuals. Presented by 10 Leaves!

In this episode, we break down the DIFC’s proposed amendments to the Prescribed Company (PC) Regulations and what they mean for investors, family offices, holding structures, corporate groups, and businesses looking to establish efficient structures within the DIFC. We explore the removal of qualifying purpose and nexus requirements, the introduction of universal eligibility, and how these changes are designed to enhance the flexibility and accessibility of the Prescribed Company regime. The episode also examines the expanded role of Corporate Service Providers (CSPs), including their statutory responsibilities, compliance obligations, record-keeping requirements, and their function as the primary interface between Prescribed Companies and the Registrar of Companies. We further discuss the implications of the proposed fee structure, enforcement framework, transition requirements for existing entities, and the broader regulatory objectives underpinning these reforms. Whether you are a family office, corporate group, private investor, structuring advisor, legal professional, compliance officer, or business seeking to leverage DIFC holding company structures, this episode provides a practical overview of the proposed Prescribed Company framework and its significance within the evolving DIFC regulatory landscape. Presented by 10 Leaves

In this episode, we break down the DFSA Recognised Jurisdictions framework and what it means for foreign funds, asset managers, financial institutions, and regulated firms looking to access the DIFC ecosystem. We explore how the DFSA assesses regulatory equivalence, the role of recognised jurisdictions in cross-border financial activities, and how the framework supports smoother fund establishment, external fund management, and international fund distribution within the DIFC. The episode also examines the practical implications of the Recognised Jurisdictions List across fund marketing, designated fund classifications, counterparty assessments, outsourcing arrangements, regulatory cooperation, investor protection standards, and supervisory alignment between the DFSA and overseas regulators. We further discuss how this framework supports Dubai’s positioning as a global financial hub by reducing duplicative regulatory barriers while maintaining strong compliance and governance standards. Whether you are a fund manager, wealth management firm, external asset manager, investment advisor, compliance professional, family office, or financial institution exploring cross-border opportunities in the DIFC, this episode provides a practical overview of the DFSA Recognised Jurisdictions regime and its importance within the broader DIFC regulatory landscape. Presented by 10 Leaves

In this episode, we break down the DIFC Category 3A Brokerage License framework and what it means for firms looking to establish regulated brokerage and investment dealing operations within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). We explore the different brokerage licensing structures available under the DFSA regime, including Dealing in Investments as Agent, Matched Principal arrangements, and Principal dealing activities, along with their associated capital requirements, operational models, and regulatory expectations. The episode also examines key areas such as prudential capital rules, expense-based capital requirements, governance obligations, risk management frameworks, AML and compliance expectations, staffing requirements, and the end-to-end DFSA licensing process. We further discuss the DIFC’s strategic advantages as a global financial hub, including its independent common-law framework, tax efficiencies, access to regional wealth markets, and the growing opportunities for brokerage firms, fintechs, and crypto-related businesses operating within the UAE. Whether you are a brokerage startup, fintech platform, introducing broker, matched principal dealer, wealth management firm, compliance professional, or exploring regulated financial services opportunities in the DIFC, this episode provides a practical overview of the evolving DFSA brokerage licensing landscape and the operational considerations for establishing a regulated presence in Dubai. Presented by 10 Leaves.

In this episode, we break down the key costs, regulatory requirements, and operational considerations involved in setting up a regulated financial services firm in the DIFC.  We explore the DIFC’s position as a leading global financial centre, covering DFSA licensing, capital requirements, office setup, compliance obligations, digital asset regulations, and the growing opportunities for wealth managers, brokerages, fintechs, hedge funds, and advisory firms operating in the UAE.  The episode also highlights practical insights into incorporation costs, ongoing operational expenses, governance expectations, audits, insurance, and outsourced compliance support required to operate within the DIFC ecosystem.  Whether you are exploring a new regulated setup or expanding your financial services business into Dubai, this episode provides a practical overview of the DIFC licensing landscape. Presented by 10 Leaves

In this episode, we break down the DIFC Fund Manager License framework and what it means for asset managers, hedge funds, venture capital firms, private equity managers, wealth managers, and fund platforms looking to establish a regulated presence in Dubai’s leading financial centre. We explore the DIFC’s regulatory ecosystem, covering DFSA licensing requirements, fund structures, capital requirements, staffing obligations, fund categories, crypto fund regulations, and the growing opportunities for domestic and external fund managers operating within the UAE and broader MEASA region. The episode also highlights practical insights into setup costs, office requirements, application timelines, governance expectations, compliance obligations, outsourcing arrangements, and the operational framework required to launch and manage investment funds within the DIFC ecosystem. Whether you are launching a new fund management business, setting up a hedge fund platform, managing venture capital structures, or expanding your investment management operations into Dubai, this episode provides a practical overview of the DIFC Fund Manager licensing landscape. Presented by 10 Leaves.