ANAX Capital Founder Tabinda Sanpal’s Vision for Finance in Dubai

When ANAX Capital founder Tabinda Sanpal set out to bridge the gap between innovation and institutional standards in the financial sector by creating a platform that provides investors with secure access to global markets, one key question emerged: which jurisdiction to choose as its base?

The UK-educated Sanpal began her career as an FX sales executive at Hantec Markets Ltd, an FCA-regulated brokerage firm, where she focused on managing and expanding the company’s foreign exchange client base. “It meant being on the front lines of a fast-paced and highly competitive market. It was a challenging start, particularly as someone with limited experience, often negotiating with professionals who knew the space inside out and had years of experience in the field. However, that environment became my greatest training ground.”

Armed with deep industry knowledge and a mindset that accepts no shortcuts to building credibility in finance, she was ready to venture out on her own, but not in the UK. 

“Dubai was the natural choice because it has evolved into a global financial hub with a strong regulatory framework, strategic geographic positioning, and access to international markets,” Sanpal says. “When all these factors aligned, I knew the timing was right to bring my vision to life.”

Her decision was grounded in a clear assessment of the UAE’s investment and trading sector, which she sees as continuing to mature under a well-defined regulatory framework, strengthened governance, and growing participation from regional and international investors. “While global markets such as the US and Europe offer greater depth and longer-established liquidity, the UAE distinguishes itself through regulatory modernization, strategic geographic positioning, and its role as a capital hub connecting the Middle East, Asia, and Europe,” Sanpal says. “The market remains competitive and continues to evolve in line with international best practices.”

Today, ANAX Capital offers a wide range of brokerage, portfolio management, advisory with secure access to global financial markets, including forex, CFDs, OTC products, equities, futures, and options. Backed by a capital base of AED 30 million, it delivers transparent advanced trading technology tailored to both individual and institutional investors. It is licensed and regulated by the UAE Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) with First Category License, ensuring full compliance with the highest standards of transparency, investor protection, and financial conduct.

Sanpal explains that launching a a Category A–licensed brokerage firm “demands more than ambition”—it requires substantial capital, strong governance, and a long-term commitment to compliance and operational excellence. “My advice to entrepreneurs considering launching a regulated investment and trading firm in the UAE is to take measured and calculated risks,” she says.

This approach has defined ANAX Capital’s positioning within the UAE’s competitive financial services landscape. “Our focus has been on building a structured brokerage model that prioritizes compliance, risk management, and responsible client onboarding,” Sanpal says. “We aim to combine institutional-grade processes with a client-centric service approach. Rather than focusing solely on rapid expansion, we have concentrated on strengthening infrastructure, governance, and service consistency to support sustainable growth.”

Since its launch, ANAX Capital has marked key milestones, including securing regulatory approval, establishing a structured operational framework, and building a stable, growing client base. These achievements, Sanpal says, have enabled the firm to build investor trust in under a year in a sector where credibility typically takes much longer to establish. “Early progress was reflected in client retention levels and increasing referral activity, which we consider important indicators of trust,” she explains. “Establishing credibility within the first year was supported by experienced leadership, transparent communication, adherence to compliance standards, and consistent service delivery. Trust remains a continuous commitment rather than a one-time achievement.”

Sanpal’s career trajectory in finance reflects a broader industry shift, as diversity becomes increasingly embedded across global financial institutions. The latest Gender Balance Index by OMFIF shows women now hold 19% of leadership roles across central and commercial banks, as well as sovereign and pension funds, up from 16% a year earlier. In the UAE, this trend is also gaining momentum, with greater female participation at the leadership level contributing to more diverse perspectives, sharper risk assessment, and stronger long-term strategic decision-making. “Women today bring a level of perseverance and determination that continues to raise the bar across the industry,” Sanpal says. “When different voices are included at the table, decision-making becomes stronger and more balanced.”

She adds, “The next phase of progress should focus on moving beyond visibility toward influence, where women are not only present, but actively shaping the future of the financial industry.”

Looking ahead, Sanpal says ANAX Capital’s strategic priorities include continued investment in technology infrastructure, prudent product diversification in line with regulatory approvals, and the strengthening of institutional relationships. The firm also plans to enhance its risk management systems and expand client education initiatives to remain aligned with evolving regulatory standards and market developments.

“Our objective is sustainable, well-governed growth that contributes positively to the UAE’s broader financial ecosystem,” Sanpal states. 

‘TREP TALK: ANAX Capital founder and Director Tabinda Sanpal on Leading in Finance 

“For entrepreneurs looking to enter the investment and trading sector, my first piece of advice is to understand that success requires discipline and a strong foundation in risk management. Markets are unpredictable, and the ability to manage risk effectively often defines long-term sustainability.

“For women aiming to build leadership roles in financial services, it is essential to seek opportunities to influence decisions and lead by example. Leadership in finance, both specifically and in business more broadly, is about inspiring confidence, driving performance, and creating meaningful impact within your organization. It requires the courage to step into responsibility and make positive change in the environment in which you work.”