How do I verify a forex broker license is real?
How this answer was verified
- Cross-checked against broker-published fact sheets, regulator licensing databases, and ESMA product intervention notices.
- Reviewed by our editorial team (Marcus Weber CFA, Sofia Lindgren FRM, Daniel Ferretti LLM).
- Refreshed quarterly. The most recent verification date is shown above. Read our methodology.
Related questions
How do I tell if a forex broker is a scam?
Check the regulator number on the broker site against the official register (FCA, CySEC, BaFin, ASIC). Scams typically: offer 1:1000+ leverage to EU clients, promise unrealistic fixed-rate profits, refuse withdrawals, use cold-call tactics, or operate from offshore-only jurisdictions (SVG, Vanuatu) with no tier-1 oversight. If in doubt, do not deposit.
Is Pepperstone a safe broker?
Yes, Pepperstone is one of the safest forex brokers globally. It holds licenses from BaFin (Germany), FCA (UK), CySEC (Cyprus), and ASIC (Australia) — four tier-1 regulators. Client funds are segregated at tier-one banks, and EU clients are covered by ICF compensation up to EUR 20,000.
FSCS vs ICF — what compensation do EU and UK forex traders get?
UK clients of FCA-regulated brokers are covered by FSCS up to £85,000 per person, per institution. EU clients of CySEC-regulated brokers are covered by ICF (Investor Compensation Fund) up to EUR 20,000. Both schemes pay out only if the broker becomes insolvent — not on trading losses.