A prominent contracts for differences (CFDs) broker, which focuses on the Middle East market, has made a key appointment by naming a new Group Chief Financial Officer. The individual likely stepping into this position is Sean Hong, who previously held the position of Global Head of Finance at the Dubai-based firm, starting in mid-2023.
Hong’s career trajectory includes significant experience, having served as Chief Financial Officer for Plus500’s Australian division, where he spent over three years. Though his background mainly consists of time spent at two CFDs brokers, he possesses more than 20 years of diverse experience in the financial sector. His career features roles in renowned financial institutions such as PwC, Deutsche Bank, Macquarie Group, and ANZ.
The firm’s website still lists the former CFO, who had been in the role since 2018, indicating a transition that could lead to uncertainty about his future position following Hong’s promotion. Earlier reports suggested that another significant hire was made within the organization when a former Chief Operating Officer joined as the new Head of Trading.
The broker is headquartered in Dubai and maintains a presence in Jordan while holding licenses from various regulatory authorities, including those in the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, the United Kingdom, Kenya, Seychelles, Armenia, and Cyprus. The primary focus of this broker is the burgeoning Middle Eastern market.
Although the broker does not publicly share its trading volumes, other firms operating in the MENA region have reported impressive figures. For example, one company noted a record trading volume of approximately $1.51 trillion during the second quarter of 2025, a significant increase compared to the total volume recorded for the whole of 2024. Additionally, another CFD broker highlighted that over half of its substantial Q1 trading volume originated from the Middle East, showing a continued upward trend in regional trading activity.
As the demand for trading services continues to rise in the MENA region, the strategic leadership changes within the brokerage illustrate a commitment to adapting and growing within this increasingly competitive marketplace. The industry is witnessing a notable shift in talent, with various firms in the trading sector actively attracting professionals, signaling a dynamic environment for both brokers and traders alike.