Forex Regulations Guide
Global broker regulation and maximum leverage across 60+ jurisdictions.
Three rules before you fund.
Verify the regulator.
A reputable broker prints its licence on the website and in the footer. If the regulator's own database does not return the firm's name, treat the broker as unregulated.
Mind the leverage cap.
Each regulator sets a maximum. The EU and UK hold retail leverage to 1:30. Offshore venues quote 1:500 or more. Higher leverage magnifies the consequences of being wrong.
Country must match licence.
The flag on the corporate office and the regulator on the contract should agree. When they do not, ask why, then leave.
Regulation Tiers
Tier 1
Strictly regulated jurisdictions with investor compensation schemes, segregated funds, and leverage caps. Examples: FCA, ASIC, CySEC, MAS.
Offshore
Lightly regulated jurisdictions offering high leverage and fewer protections. Popular with experienced traders who want flexibility.
Restricted
Countries that ban retail forex outright or impose extreme limitations. Trading carries legal risk and limited broker access.
How to Use This Guide (Worked Example)
Scenario: You are a South African trader looking for a broker. You want to know what regulation applies to you and what leverage is available.
Step 1: Search "South Africa" in the search box above. You will see it falls under FSCA (Financial Services Conduct Authority).
Step 2: Check the leverage: 1:500. Click the row to expand and read the summary.
Step 3: Click "Official register" to verify any broker's licence directly with the FSCA.
Step 4: Compare with Tier 1 options (like FCA at 1:30). More protection, less leverage.
Why this matters: Choosing an unregulated broker might give you higher leverage, but if they freeze your withdrawal or shut down, you have no legal protection. This guide helps you weigh risk vs. flexibility for your specific country.