Internet reports that Hidden Road, a cryptocurrency and traditional asset broker, plans to open an office in Abu Dhabi, and the company recently agreed to be acquired by Ripple for US$1.25 billion. According to people familiar with the matter, the office will be led by partner James Stickland. Hidden Road has received approval in principle (IPA) from the Abu Dhabi Global Markets Financial Supervisory Authority (FSRA) to provide clearing and prime brokerage services to institutional investors in the United Arab Emirates. Sources said members of the Abu Dhabi royal family may join the board of directors of Hidden Road after it receives final regulatory approval. The company also received FINRA approval last month to become a licensed broker dealer to expand its fixed-income primary brokerage platform. Ripple plans to inject capital into it to drive the expansion of its global non-bank prime brokerage business.