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Dh190 million unclaimed dividends distributed in H1 2025
SCA announced a 55% increase in newly-issued licences and a 60% rise in licenced companies
- PUBLISHED: Mon 14 Jul 2025, 5:57 PM
Brokerage firms in the UAE distributed approximately Dh190 million in unclaimed dividends to rightful beneficiaries during the first half of 2025, according to the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA).
The SCA announced a 55 per cent increase in newly-issued licences and a 60 per cent rise in the total number of licensed companies compared to the same period in 2024. Licensed local investment funds increased by 79 per cent, driving a record 230 per cent growth in total assets under management.
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Meanwhile, registered foreign investment funds grew by 54 per cent, and the value of registered bond and sukuk programmes rose by 35 per cent compared to the first half of 2024.
“We are not merely keeping pace with global developments; we are actively reshaping them by setting new standards that unlock unprecedented opportunities for sustainable growth. Through an innovative regulatory framework, we are redefining transparency, accountability, and excellence, establishing the UAE as a global leader in advancing the international economy,” said Waleed Saeed Al Awadhi, CEO of the SCA.
The SCA Board also approved the formation of a coordinating committee with members from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA), Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), Dubai Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), and a distinguished group of industry experts, namely Bryan Stirewalt, Sahar Badran, and Saeed Mansour Al Awar to review draft legislation, evaluate existing regulatory frameworks, and propose amendments to enhance harmonisation between regulatory authorities.
Furthermore, the SCA approved a new regulatory framework governing goodwill in public joint-stock companies, recognising it as an intangible asset that includes brand strength and corporate reputation. The framework aims to promote compliance with international accounting standards and establish clear valuation principles to support boards of directors, audit committees, and external auditors, while enhancing transparency and investor disclosure practices.
These decisions underscore the SCA’s impactful regulatory leadership and its role in advancing the integration of the global financial system through innovative practices that promote transparency and sustainability. They further elevate the UAE’s position as a proactive leader shaping the future of the global economy.
