IQ-EQ’s Gordian Capital Secures DFSA License for DIFC Expansion

IQ-EQ has revealed that its subsidiary, Gordian Capital, has obtained regulatory consent to extend its institutional cross-border fund platform operations into the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).

Gordian secured a license from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), empowering it to provide a comprehensive array of institutional fund services within and from DIFC.

The newly granted license permits Gordian to:

• Manage collective investment funds
• Offer advice on financial products
• Arrange custody services
• Facilitate investment deals
• Manage assets

Additionally, the company has been granted approval to operate its institutional fund platform within DIFC.

This licensing is particularly tailored for seasoned investment professionals seeking a regulated fund structure in Dubai. Gordian will oversee operational and managerial duties, enabling investment managers to concentrate on their investment strategies.

The firm aims to enhance fund structuring efforts and facilitate the flow of capital from the Middle East to global investment ventures.

Gordian boasts a substantial footprint in the Asia-Pacific region, with offices in notable cities including Singapore, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Melbourne. This expansion into Dubai further strengthens its capability to manage cross-border funds for international clientele.

IQ-EQ's acquisition of Gordian Capital in July 2025 was aimed at augmenting its regulated fund platform and structuring services across various markets, including both APAC and Europe.

Since its inception in 2005, Gordian has successfully launched over 115 funds spanning both private and public investment strategies, currently managing approximately US$22 billion in assets. Its clientele includes institutional asset managers, hedge funds, family offices, corporates, and investment platforms across sectors such as private equity, real estate, infrastructure, venture capital, and long-only strategies.

Mark Voumard, Founder of Gordian and Managing Director at IQ-EQ for Asia and the Middle East, stated that this move into DIFC will allow investment managers to establish a regulated presence in Dubai along with expedited market access and operational assistance.

Richard Surrency, Group Chief Commercial Officer at IQ-EQ, regarded the DFSA license as a significant achievement in the company’s strategy for growth in the Middle East, emphasizing the UAE's status as an evolving financial hub.

Salmaan Jaffery, Chief Business Development Officer at DIFC Authority, welcomed Gordian Capital into the DIFC ecosystem, noting that its presence will strengthen asset management and institutional fund services in the region.