Nasdaq Dubai (formerly Dubai International Financial Exchange - DIFX) is Dubai's second stock exchange, established in 2005 and located in the [[Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)]]. Unlike the DFM, it operates as an international exchange following international standards and regulations, aimed at attracting global investors and listings.
Key features include:
- Regulated by the [[Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA)]]
- Trades in international currencies (primarily USD)
- Lists regional and international securities, including equities, bonds, sukuk (Islamic bonds), and derivatives
- Operates under a regulatory framework similar to major global exchanges
- Strategic partnership with [[Nasdaq Inc.]] (formed in 2008, leading to rebranding from DIFX to Nasdaq Dubai)
- Focuses on larger, international companies and sophisticated investors
- Works complementary to DFM, targeting different market segments and investor bases
The exchange is majority-owned by DFM since 2010, though it maintains separate operations and regulatory framework.