The National Commission of Digital Assets (CNAD) has officially granted a Digital Asset Service Provider (DASP) license to the prominent exchange Bitfinex. This milestone allows the company to integrate its spot trading, derivatives, and tokenized asset operations under a single, robust regulatory framework. By securing this authorization, Bitfinex strengthens its existing presence, which already includes specialized divisions like Bitfinex Securities and Bitfinex Derivatives.
El Salvador continues to set a global benchmark for Bitcoin adoption and digital finance innovation. The government’s deliberate strategy to foster a secure environment for crypto-enterprises has attracted over 70 licensed companies to date, including exchanges and custodians. This growing ecosystem positions the country as a primary regional hub for digital infrastructure, offering legal certainty that is highly valued by international investors.
According to Paolo Ardoino, CTO of Bitfinex, the country’s regulatory evolution is yielding significant results. Ardoino noted that El Salvador has followed a conscious policy to become a “serious home for regulated digital asset infrastructures,” emphasizing that these efforts are clearly paying off. The executive highlighted that operating under innovative supervision is central to the company’s long-term vision in the region.
The acquisition of this license is not just a corporate victory but a strategic move to deepen Bitfinex’s role in the digital economy. By offering a comprehensive suite of services—from spot to tokenized securities—the platform aims to make financial markets more accessible and open. This commitment is underscored by their history in the country, having been the first international platform authorized under the Digital Asset Issuance Law in 2023.
As the digital landscape shifts, Bitfinex’s new DASP license reflects a broader trend of institutional-grade compliance in the crypto space. Ardoino reaffirmed that this step aligns with their goal of “supporting the development of a more open digital asset economy” while ensuring proper oversight. With this expansion, El Salvador solidifies its status as a pioneer in regulated financial technology for the Americas.