London remains one of the world’s largest forex trading centres — which means FCA compliance is not optional, and allegations here move fast.
Firms providing forex or CFD services in the UK must be authorised by the FCA under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000.
Authorised firms must keep client funds properly segregated from their own operating capital.
Retail clients trading forex and CFDs face leverage limits designed to reduce the risk of catastrophic losses.
The Financial Services Compensation Scheme protects retail clients of authorised firms if the firm becomes unable to return client funds.
Offering forex or CFD services from the UK without FCA authorisation carries significant regulatory and criminal exposure.
Failing to properly segregate client funds is a frequent and serious compliance failure point for brokers.
Financial promotion rules apply strictly to forex and CFD advertising, with breaches carrying real enforcement risk.
Some operators attempt to avoid FCA oversight through offshore entities, which itself often becomes a focus of enforcement action.
Verify the firm directly against the FCA public register before depositing funds or engaging further.
The FCA can impose fines, restrict permissions, or refer serious matters for criminal prosecution depending on the severity of the breach.
If the broker is FCA-authorised, the Financial Services Compensation Scheme may provide protection up to its published limits.
Speak with us confidentially before responding to the FCA or a client dispute.