Audi Capital unveiled a new online trading platform last week, giving Saudi investors access to dozens of international markets through a partnership with fintech firm GTN.

The broker launched “Audi Tadawul” at its Riyadh offices on September 30, aiming the platform at wealthy individuals, institutions, family offices and corporations. Users can trade equities, ETFs, bonds, currencies, derivatives, commodities and alternative investments across more than 80 markets.

Audi Capital holds a securities license from Saudi Arabia's Capital Market Authority, issued in 2006. The firm offers dealing, arranging, investment management advisory and custody services under local regulations.

GTN Supplies Trading Infrastructure

GTN provided the technology backbone for the platform. The fintech company operates broker-dealer licenses across multiple countries and employs over 500 people in 14 markets. Its investors include IFC, part of the World Bank Group, and SBI Group, a Tokyo-listed financial services firm.

“Our partnership with Audi Capital represents a powerful step forward in democratizing access to global markets,” said Damian Bunce, CEO of GTN Middle East.

The platform includes real-time market data, charting tools and risk management features. Investors can access it through web browsers and mobile devices using a single account.

In the meantime, the company has appointed Jon Lester as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO) for the Middle East. The appointment comes as the company expands its operations in the region and worldwide.

Vision 2030 Alignment

Saudi Arabia has been pushing to expand its financial services sector as part of Vision 2030, the kingdom's economic diversification plan. The government wants to grow Riyadh as a regional financial hub and attract more international investment.

Daniel Asmar, CEO of Audi Capital, said the platform “empowers our clients to invest with speed, precision and confidence in both the Saudi and global financial markets across various asset classes.”

Audi Capital has operated in Saudi Arabia for nearly two decades. The firm says it follows international wealth and asset management standards while complying with local requirements.

The broker didn't disclose pricing details, investment minimums or projected client numbers for the new platform. GTN also didn't specify which of its 14 country operations would support the Saudi service.

Several international brokers have expanded in the Gulf region recently as local regulators ease restrictions and wealthy investors seek portfolio diversification beyond oil-linked assets.

Related stories:

• GTN Partners With Georgia's Investment Bank and Brokerage Firm Galt & Taggart for Cross-Border Trading
• GTN Names Sham Treon Chief Risk Officer for Middle East
• The UK Regulator Opens Doors for GTN's European Growth Push