Cantor, part of the Cantor Fitzgerald group, has confirmed it will expand in the Middle East with a new location in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). The firm has secured in-principle approval to carry out regulated financial activities from the financial centre. The new office forms part of Cantor’s plan to increase its presence in key international markets and support clients across the region.
Ali Khalpey joined earlier this year as Head of Middle East, Investment Banking & Capital Markets. His role focuses on the expansion of Cantor’s advisory and capital markets work across the Gulf. Before Cantor Fitzgerald, he worked at EFG Hermes as Head of Equity Capital Markets.
“The Middle East is a key growth market for Cantor as we continue to expand our global investment banking and capital markets platform,” said Sage Kelly, Co-Chief Executive Officer and Global Head of Investment Banking, Cantor. “As we expand into Abu Dhabi, we are bringing the same long-term, talent-driven approach that has guided Cantor for decades. With Ali’s leadership, we are well positioned to capture opportunities across the Gulf and deliver the full scope of Cantor’s capabilities to clients.”
“The Gulf is one of the most active markets globally for IPOs and capital formation, and we hope to contribute meaningfully to the continued growth and deepening of regional capital markets,” said Ali Khalpey. “ADGM has become a major financial hub connecting global and regional capital, and Cantor’s presence here will enable us to better serve clients pursuing diversification and access to international markets.”
“We are pleased to welcome Cantor to ADGM. The firm’s decision to establish an office in Abu Dhabi reflects the growing importance of our financial centre as a base for global institutions serving clients across the Middle East,” said Arvind Ramamurthy, Chief Market Development Officer at ADGM. “Cantor’s presence will contribute towards our growing ecosystem and reinforces Abu Dhabi’s continued development as a hub for capital markets activity.”
Regulatory approval for the new office is expected in the first quarter of 2026.