Abu Dhabi based international financial services firm ADS Securities has announced that its Hong Kong subsidiary has been granted a Type 6 regulated activity license by the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (the “SFC”).
The Type 6 license is in addition to the license to the full-service brokerage Type, 1, 2 and 3 licenses it already holds.
The Type 6 license will allow ADS Securities Hong Kong to advise clients on corporate finance, which enables it to provide a comprehensive financial platform and a diversified financial products selection to clients.
Francis Lee, ADS Securities HK
Francis Lee, Managing Director, ADS Securities Hong Kong Limited, said:
With the Type 6 license we can leverage our expertise, knowledge and highly regarded global network, to give clients access to exceptional deals both locally, in the Middle East and across Europe. We have received a lot of interest from regional investors so it is essential we have the right licenses in place.
The Type 6 license will allow ADS Securities Hong Kong to act as financial advisor in compliance with the Hong Kong Listing Rules, including M&A transactions, fundraising activities, corporate and capital restructuring, securities financing and disclosure obligations. The expanded business scope will also enable ADS Securities Hong Kong to participate in underwriting and placing of securities, solicitation of strategic and cornerstone investors, and take part in investors relation activities.
Philippe Ghanem, CEO and Vice Chairman, ADS Securities LLC, said:
Asian investors are always looking for high quality deals and recognise that we can give them access to a range of very interesting and innovative investments. We will be looking to quickly grow our presence in this very important market, delivering what our clients want.
Since launching in 2010, ADS Securities’ strong balance sheet has allowed it to invest heavily in top tier technology, building the right relationships with liquidity providers and prime brokers, and in developing its uniquely talented staff. In late December 2016, company shareholders increased their capital investment in ADS Securities, reaffirming their commitment to the firm and their confidence in its prospects. The deployment of US$185 million, or approximately 46% of the initial paid capital, now brings the firm’s total capitalization to US$585 million; a strong signal of the shareholder’s belief in the enormous potential of ADS Securities.
ADS Securities Hong Kong is regulated by the SFC (CE No AXC847), and is a full service brokerage that offers Hong Kong clients market leading technology, excellent prices and spreads, and best in-class client service. ADS Securities Hong Kong Limited is a fully owned subsidiary of ADS Securities LLC based in Abu Dhabi and regulated by the Central Bank of the UAE.