Exness vs FBS — which is better in 2026?
How this answer was verified
- Cross-checked against broker-published fact sheets, regulator licensing databases, and ESMA product intervention notices.
- Reviewed by the FX-Brokers EU editorial desks (Markets, Platforms, Regulation). Desk structure disclosed at /about/editorial-desks.
- Refreshed quarterly. The most recent verification date is shown above. Read our methodology.
Related
Is Exness a safe broker?
Exness is an established, well-capitalised broker, but it does not accept EU, EEA or UK retail clients — it closed onboarding to those residents in 2019. EU and UK traders therefore cannot open an Exness account or rely on CySEC/FCA investor-protection schemes through it. Where Exness does onboard (non-EU and emerging markets), clients are served by its offshore Seychelles FSA entity (license SD025), which sits outside EU/UK compensation schemes such as the ICF and FSCS.
Is FBS a safe broker in 2026?
FBS operates multiple entities. FBS Markets Inc (IFSC Belize 60/230/TS/19) and FBS EU Ltd (CySEC 331/17) are the main entities. EU clients onboarded through FBS EU get ICF EUR 20,000 protection and ESMA 30:1 leverage; offshore clients get up to 3000:1 leverage with no compensation scheme. Founded 2009, no major scandals.
EU-regulated vs offshore forex broker — which should I use?
EU-regulated brokers (CySEC, BaFin, FCA) offer ICF/FSCS compensation up to EUR 20,000-85,000, mandatory negative balance protection, and 30:1 max leverage. Offshore brokers (FSC Belize, IFSC, VFSC) offer higher leverage (500:1+) and looser margin rules but no compensation scheme and weaker investor protection. EU is safer; offshore is for high-risk-tolerance traders only.