FinanceNomura’s Laser Digital Invests in ZIGChain to Enhance Onchain Private Credit in UAE
The investment from Laser Digital in ZIGChain is reported to be in the high single-digit millions.
By Ian Allison|Edited by Cheyenne LigonUpdated Aug 5, 2026, 1:32 p.m. Published Aug 5, 2026, 1:25 p.m. 2 min read
Laser Digital, the digital assets division of Japan's Nomura Group, has announced a significant investment in ZIGChain, a UAE-based Layer1 blockchain that collaborates with Standard Chartered and the Apex Group, a leader in cryptocurrency fund servicing.
While the precise amount of Laser's investment remains undisclosed, it is believed to be in the high single-digit millions.
This partnership aims to simplify the private credit markets in the Gulf region, introducing Sharia-compliant financial products, which ZIGChain co-founder Abdul Rafay Gadit emphasized as a crucial development.
After an initial discussion with Laser Digital CEO Jez Mohideen, Gadit noted that both parties shared a vision for improving access to financial services through cryptocurrency and tokenization, aided by their proximity in Dubai, where their offices are just one kilometer apart.
“Laser is collaborating with us to create one of the largest on-chain products ever seen in the Gulf region,” Gadit stated in an interview. “Our location in Dubai, alongside Laser's, facilitates our partnership.”
The cryptocurrency market is currently facing challenges, and the downturn has impacted the industry significantly. Earlier this year, in February, Nomura adjusted risk limits at Laser Digital due to crypto-related losses affecting quarterly profits. This decision was interpreted by the market as a sign of retreat, although Nomura clarified that it remains committed to the crypto sector, albeit with a more cautious strategy.
According to a statement, the collaboration between Laser Digital and ZIGChain will establish a robust risk management framework and governance for a series of institutional on-chain vault products.
Gadit highlighted a twofold issue within the private credit market in the Middle East: “On one hand, those in need of funds cannot access traditional banking options, while on the other, potential investors are unaware of the available opportunities. Even when they are aware, the high fees and barriers posed by large funds make access difficult. Our goal is to democratize this space.”
Dr. Jez Mohideen, Co-founder and CEO of Laser Digital, remarked that the firm has been observing the private credit sector closely, acknowledging the genuine opportunities in on-chain finance while noting that execution risks are frequently underestimated.
“ZIG Markets offers regional expertise and a solid track record in origination, and as both an investor and partner, we aim to uphold high institutional risk standards across our broader offerings,” Mohideen said. “Our shared vision is to make next-generation asset management products available to those investing serious institutional capital.”