KraneShares Strengthens Abu Dhabi Market with Launch of AI ETF (AGIX) and Shari’ah-Compliant Income ETF (KWIN)
Abu Dhabi, UAE: In a significant development for the financial landscape of the region, KraneShares has announced the listing of two exchange-traded funds (ETFs) on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX). The KraneShares Artificial Intelligence & Technology ETF (Ticker: AGIX) and the KraneShares Wahed Alternative Income Index ETF (Ticker: KWIN) are set to enhance investment opportunities in the Arab region, which is the second-largest exchange by market capitalization.
Launch of Innovative ETFs
The AGIX ETF aims to provide exposure to both public and private companies in the artificial intelligence sector, including notable names like SpaceX and Anthropic. This ETF is scheduled for direct listing on the ADX on April 16, 2026. It offers investors access to high-growth innovation themes and select private companies, marking a pivotal moment in the investment landscape.
In parallel, the KWIN ETF, developed in collaboration with Wahed Invest, introduces a Shari’ah-compliant income strategy that goes beyond traditional Sukuk. The initial offering price (IOP) period for KWIN will commence from April 15 to April 21, 2026, with the ETF expected to list by the end of April 2026.
Both ETFs are cross-listed from the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation as a hub for innovative investment products that cater to global demand.
Market Dynamics and Strategic Partnerships
Oceane Global has been appointed as the market maker for these ETFs, tasked with ensuring liquidity and trading efficiency on the ADX. Waystone will serve as the legal representative, focusing on regulatory compliance and structuring support for the listings.
Abdulla Salem Alnuaimi, Group CEO of the ADX Group, emphasized the significance of this cross-listing. He stated that it represents a step forward in expanding access to global investment opportunities. The introduction of AGIX and KWIN is a direct response to the increasing demand for exposure to high-growth sectors such as AI, alongside income solutions that align with regional priorities, including Shari’ah-compliant strategies.
In March alone, the ADX reported a remarkable 183% increase in ETF trade value, alongside a 134% rise in the number of investors engaging with its suite of ETFs year-on-year. This momentum positions the ADX as a leading ETF hub in the region, committed to delivering innovative products that meet the evolving needs of investors.
Broader Implications for the Investment Landscape
Jonathan Krane, Founder and CEO of KraneShares, noted that the listing of AGIX and KWIN reflects a growing global appetite for differentiated ETF exposure. The AGIX ETF’s unique structure allows investors to access both established AI leaders and promising private innovators within a single liquid investment vehicle. Meanwhile, KWIN’s Shari’ah-compliant strategy aims to generate income while adhering to Islamic investment principles, thereby broadening access for regional investors to innovative financial solutions.
Anthony Sassine, CEO of Oceane Global, highlighted the importance of collaboration in establishing a robust ETF ecosystem. He pointed out that the partnership with KraneShares and Waystone is crucial for ensuring that these products trade efficiently, providing both institutional and retail investors in the UAE with access to global investment opportunities.
Caoimhghin O’Donnell, CEO of Waystone Management Company Middle East, expressed pride in supporting this collaboration as the legal representative for the funds. He emphasized the need for effective coordination among issuers, market makers, and legal infrastructure providers to create a sustainable ETF ecosystem in the region.
Strengthening Capital Markets Infrastructure
These new listings build on the successful cross-listing of KraneShares’ flagship ETFs, the KWEB KraneShares China ETF and the KRBN KraneShares Global Carbon Credit ETF, on the ADX in December 2025. This latest development marks another milestone in enhancing the region’s capital markets infrastructure.
The Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, established on November 15, 2000, operates under Local Law No. (3) of 2000, granting it independent financial and administrative status. The ADX was converted into a Public Joint Stock Company (PJSC) in March 2020, further solidifying its role in the financial ecosystem.
The ADX Group, which includes the exchange and its post-trade ecosystem, aims to support efficient and transparent capital markets. The exchange facilitates trading in various securities, including equities, bonds, ETFs, and other financial instruments approved by the UAE Capital Market Authority.
Conclusion
The introduction of the AGIX and KWIN ETFs represents a significant advancement in the investment landscape of the UAE, aligning with the national development agenda aimed at fostering a sustainable and diversified economy. As the ADX continues to evolve, it remains focused on providing investors with access to innovative products that meet their changing needs.
Source: www.zawya.com
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