CFI expands into Bahrain with Central Bank license
Leading MENA region based online trading provider CFI has announced that its subsidiary, CFI FINANCIAL (BAHRAIN) B.S.C CLOSED, has been granted a Category 2 Investment Business Firm license from the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB). The company said that this exciting development lays the foundation for CFI’s entry into Bahrain, further enhancing its global presence as part of the group’s bold growth strategy.
The group recognizes Bahrain’s strategic role within the GCC, making it a vital addition to its growing regional footprint. The company’s expansion across the GCC includes its established presence in the UAE, and recent successful entries into Oman and Kuwait, with Bahrain now joining as the latest milestone in this regional growth journey. Once operations commence, Bahraini traders will now benefit from CFI’s best-in-class trading solutions, supported by cutting-edge technology and innovative financial services tailored to meet the growing demands of traders worldwide. This expansion also follows CFI’s recent acquisition in Azerbaijan and licensed launch in South Africa, reflecting the group’s continued focus on entering key international markets and solidifying its global presence.
CFI’s portfolio of regulatory licenses spans global jurisdictions, including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the United Kingdom, the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) in the UAE, the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), the Jordan Securities Commission (JSC), the Financial Regulatory Authority (FRA) in Egypt, the Capital Markets Authority (FSA) in Oman, and the newly acquired Central Bank license in Azerbaijan, among other licenses. With this extensive regulatory footprint, CFI is the most regulated online trading provider in MENA and one of the most regulated globally. Beyond regulation, CFI said it also holds the largest physical presence in the MENA region, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to personalized accessibility, transparency, excellence, and strict compliance across all markets it operates in.
“This milestone marks an exciting new chapter for CFI as we expand into Bahrain, a key financial hub within the GCC and an integral part of our global strategy,” said Ziad Melhem, CEO of CFI Financial Group. “We’re eager to offer Bahraini traders direct access to global markets, advanced tools, and a trading experience built on transparency, innovation, and long-term value, and we extend our sincere appreciation to the Central Bank of Bahrain for their trust and support throughout this licensing journey, as well as their commitment to fostering a robust financial ecosystem that makes growth like this possible.”
As CFI accelerates its global expansion, the group said it remains firmly focused on delivering world-class financial services while upholding the highest standards of innovation, regulatory integrity, and client satisfaction.
About CFI
CFI Financial Group, established in 1998, is MENA’s leading online trading broker with over 25 years of experience. Operating from key locations like London, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Cape Town, Baku, Beirut, Amman, and Cairo, CFI provides seamless access to both global and local markets. Offering diverse trading options across equities, currencies, commodities, and more, CFI delivers superior conditions, including zero-pip spreads, no commission fees, and ultra-fast execution.
The company is a leader in AI-driven tools, offering intuitive and advanced solutions for traders of all experience levels. CFI fosters financial literacy through multilingual educational content and inspires excellence through partnerships with global icons like AC Milan, FIBA WASL, and MI Cape Town cricket team, as well as the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi. With Seven-Time Formula One™ World Champion Sir Lewis Hamilton as Global Brand Ambassador, CFI reflects a shared commitment to innovation and success while supporting cultural and community initiatives worldwide.