Risk Warning:CFD trading involves significant risk of loss. This is not investment advice.
Learn about the financial regulatory authorities that govern CFD and forex brokers accepted by UAE and GCC traders. Understand what each licence means and how to verify it.
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) is the independent regulator of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), an international financial centre on Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Separate from the DFSA (Dubai-based), ADGM FSRA regulation is also considered Tier 1 for the UAE.
The Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) regulates financial services conducted in or from the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). It is the primary Tier-1 regulator for professional and retail CFD brokers operating in the UAE.
The Capital Markets Authority (CMA) of Saudi Arabia is the government body responsible for regulating the Saudi capital markets. The CMA issues and enforces laws and regulations, authorises offerings of securities, and regulates and monitors the activities of brokers and investment firms operating in Saudi Arabia.
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) is the independent financial regulator of Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the international financial centre located on Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi. The FSRA applies a principles-based regulatory framework aligned with international standards.
The Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) is the EU-passportable financial regulator for Ireland. It regulates investment firms, funds, and markets in Ireland under MiFID II. CBI authorisation enables EU-wide passporting.
The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) is an EU-passportable regulator. As an EU member state, CySEC-regulated firms may passport into other EEA countries. The Investor Compensation Fund (ICF) covers eligible clients up to €20,000.
The Financial Services Authority of Seychelles (FSA) issues Securities Dealer licences to offshore brokers. It is an offshore, low-cost jurisdiction with minimal capital requirements and limited enforcement history.
The International Financial Services Commission (IFSC) of Belize licenses offshore financial services providers. It is considered a low-tier, offshore jurisdiction used by brokers to offer higher leverage and fewer restrictions to non-EU clients.