Key Insights
- Plus500 has received regulatory approval from CIRO to launch OTC trading services in Canada, marking a key step in its North American expansion strategy.
- The company now holds 15 global regulatory licences, including recent approvals in the UAE and prior acquisitions in the U.S. futures market.
ONTARIO (MarketsXplora) – Plus500 Ltd (LON:PLUS), a global multi-asset fintech group, has secured regulatory approval to operate in Canada, marking a significant step forward in its strategic expansion into North America.
The company announced on Monday that it has been granted a licence by the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO), enabling it to initiate services in Canada’s Over-the-Counter (OTC) market. The development aligns with Plus500’s stated roadmap to broaden its global footprint and strengthen its presence in key financial jurisdictions.
“This is the latest realisation of our strategy to enter new markets, develop new products, and deepen engagement with our customers,” said David Zruia, Chief Executive Officer of Plus500. “We are excited to bring our market-leading technology capabilities to customers in the region.”
Plus500, which is based in Israel, intends to use the licence not only to launch OTC services but also to gradually expand its local proposition by offering an omni-channel suite of financial products. The move reflects the company’s focus on product innovation, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence.
Plus500 Canadian Licence Signals a Wider Global Push
The Plus500 Canadian licence adds to a growing portfolio of global authorisations held by the fintech group, which now counts 15 licences across jurisdictions. In addition to the newly granted Canadian permit, the company has recently received approvals in Japan, the UAE, and the United States—where it has been particularly active.
Its push into the U.S. market began with the $30 million acquisition of Cunningham Commodities and Cunningham Trading Systems, a deal fully financed from the company’s expanding cash reserves. While Plus500 is globally recognized for its contracts for difference (CFDs) offering, it has tailored its U.S. operations to focus on the regulated futures market. The company also partnered with U.S.-based Barchart, a prominent provider of market data and financial technology.
In securing licences across multiple regions, Plus500 believes it is building a “strong regulatory foundation” that enhances its credibility and competitiveness globally. The company considers these licences a critical economic moat that supports its long-term strategy.
Separately, a corporate filing disclosed that Choh Tong Goh, CEO of Plus500’s Singapore entity, sold 2,401 shares worth over £224,000. Meanwhile, U.S.-based Capital Group recently acquired a 5.44% stake in Plus500, becoming its third-largest shareholder. The value of the acquired shares was estimated at £133.1 million ($181 million) on the day of the transaction.