Stacks Asia DLT Foundation Joins ADGM, Pioneering Bitcoin Layer-2 Innovation in the Middle East and Asia
Abu Dhabi, U.A.E., April 28th, 2025, Chainwire
The Stacks Asia DLT Foundation has become the first Bitcoin-based foundation to establish a presence within the ADGM, furthering growing momentum for Bitcoin layer-2 adoption across the Middle East and Asia. The Stacks Asia DLT Foundation leverages ADGM’s world-leading Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) Foundations framework, recognized as the most progressive and flexible of its kind globally.
Kyle Ellicott, interim Executive Director of the Stacks Asia DLT Foundation, stated, “We chose to establish our presence in ADGM because of its unparalleled commitment to fostering innovation in the blockchain space. Their forward-thinking approach to policy-making aligns perfectly with the Stacks ecosystem’s history of creating pathways for Bitcoin builders.”
As the leading Bitcoin layer-2 platform, Stacks is renowned for extending Bitcoin’s functionality without altering its core protocol. This expansion into ADGM builds upon Stacks’ existing regulatory approval from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), further solidifying its position as a compliant and trusted asset in the global cryptocurrency landscape.
Collaborative Initiatives and Regional Impact
The Stacks Asia DLT Foundation is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Bitcoin programmability and adoption in the Middle East and Asia. The foundation plans to collaborate with local partners to offer educational programs and support initiatives that empower builders and innovators in the Bitcoin ecosystem.
With its background in token raises, the foundation will provide crucial support for policy efforts related to crypto, Bitcoin utility, yields, and more. Stacks Asia DLT Foundation will focus on shaping regulations for digital assets and fostering an environment that promotes Bitcoin adoption across institutions and companies.
“Our presence in ADGM allows us to bridge the gap between Asia-Pacific and the UAE, with Hong Kong serving as a strategic hub,” Ellicott added. “We’re excited to work in setting policies that will drive the future of blockchain technology, particularly in the realm of Bitcoin layer-2 solutions.”
Advancing Bitcoin Education and Utility
The Stacks Asia DLT Foundation remains committed to advancing Bitcoin education and utility across the region. By leveraging its expertise in Bitcoin programmability and DeFi, the foundation aims to empower individuals and institutions with the knowledge and tools necessary to harness the full potential of Bitcoin.
The recent launch of sBTC on the Stacks mainnet furthers this mission by providing a programmable, 1:1 Bitcoin-backed asset that unlocks Bitcoin’s capabilities in decentralized finance applications, allowing users to engage in lending, trading, and other DeFi opportunities while maintaining Bitcoin’s security principles.
Commenting on the new registration, Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei, CEO of ADGM Registration Authority, said, “The Stacks Asia DLT Foundation’s registration in ADGM highlights our commitment to fostering transformative technologies. As more leading blockchain foundations choose ADGM as their regulatory home, the region continues to serve as a key location for innovators looking for a secure and forward-thinking environment. With this addition, ADGM reinforces the UAE’s growing role in the digital asset space, paving the way for significant advancements in Bitcoin Layer-2 solutions and wider blockchain adoption across the Middle East.”
The registration of Stacks Asia DLT Foundation in ADGM comes at a time of rapid adoption of Bitcoin-based technologies and will drive forward further innovation for the Bitcoin ecosystem.
For media queries please contact: media@adgm.com
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About ADGM
ADGM is the international financial centre (IFC) of the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, which opened for business on 21 October 2015. ADGM augments Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading financial centre and a business hub serving as a strategic link between the growing economies of the Middle East, Africa, South Asia, and the rest of the world. Operating within an international regulatory framework based on the direct application of English Common Law, ADGM governs the entirety of Al Maryah Island and Al Reem Island collectively designated as the financial free zone of Abu Dhabi.
ADGM is ranked as one of the most preferred and top-ranking IFCs in the Middle East and Africa region. Its progressive and inclusive business ecosystem fosters growth, resilience,and optimism, for global financial and non-financial institutions. Growing synergies between ADGM and multiple jurisdictions have positioned the centre as one of the world’s most advanced, diverse, and progressively governed financial hubs. For more details on ADGM,please visit www.adgm.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram: @ADGM X:@adglobalmarket
About the Stacks Asia DLT Foundation
The Stacks Asia DLT Foundation is dedicated to fostering the growth and development of the Stacks ecosystem across key markets in Asia, including Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, and Southeast Asia. With a focus on strategic partnerships, market accessibility, and adoption, the foundation aims to enhance the integration of Bitcoin layer-2 solutions in the region. The foundation collaborates with leading organizations to advance Bitcoin education, liquidity, and innovation.
