Financial Service Board (FSB) Brokers 2024

FSB South Africa

Brokers regulated by the Financial Service Board (FSB) in South Africa must comply with certain registration procedures and insurance requirements, to ensure fair practices in the non-banking financial market. This guide evaluates the FSB’s structure, responsibilities and how these affect traders.

 

The Financial Service Board (FSB) is now the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA).

This independent regulatory body oversees brokers in South Africa, ensuring certain operating requirements are met to protect local traders.

See our list of the best FSCA-authorized brokers.

What is the FSB?

Firstly, FSB stands for the Financial Services Board. The regulatory agency is an independent body. From its headquarters in Pretoria, South Africa, the FSB regulates the largest stock exchange in Africa, the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. However, they also launch investigations into a whole host of other general markets, from insurance services and brokers to the latest cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin.

You may have noticed when you search for a prospective broker, the FSB logo often appears. This is because the agency issues broker licenses for those that meet compliance requirements. Details of that process and its importance can be found below.

Purpose

The primary aim of the FSB group is “To promote and maintain a sound financial investment environment in South Africa”. This entails enforcing regulations to prevent market manipulation, among other functions. This objective is also why the body must conduct checks on licensed brokers and registered companies.

On top of the supervision of their regulated brokers’ list, the board also has other strategic objectives, including:

FSB Brokers

#1 - FOREX.com

Why We Chose FOREX.com

Founded in 1999, FOREX.com is now part of StoneX, a financial services organization serving over one million customers worldwide. Regulated in the US, UK, EU, Australia and beyond, the broker offers thousands of markets, not just forex, and provides excellent pricing on cutting-edge platforms.

"FOREX.com remains a best-in-class brokerage for active forex traders of all experience levels, with over 80 currency pairs, tight spreads from 0.0 pips and low commissions. The powerful charting platforms collectively offer over 100 technical indicators, as well as extensive research tools."

- DayTrading Review Team
  • Instruments: Forex, Spot Metals
  • Regulator: NFA, CFTC
  • Platforms: MT4, MT5, TradingView, eSignal, AutoChartist, TradingCentral
  • Minimum Deposit: $100
  • Minimum Trade: 0.01 Lots
  • Leverage: 1:50

Pros

  • The in-house Web Trader continues to shine as one of the best-designed platforms for aspiring day traders with a slick design and over 80 technical indicators for market analysis.
  • With over 20 years of experience, excellent regulatory oversight, and multiple accolades including runner-up in our 'Best Forex Broker' awards, FOREX.com boasts a global reputation as a trusted brokerage.
  • There’s a wealth of educational resources including tutorials, webinars, and a stacked YouTube channel to help you get educated in the financial markets.

Cons

  • Funding options are limited compared to leading alternatives like IC Markets and don’t include many popular e-wallets, notably UnionPay and POLi.
  • There’s no negative balance protection for US clients, so you may find yourself owing more money than your initial deposit into your account.
  • Demo accounts are frustratingly time-limited to 90 days, which doesn’t give you enough time to test day trading strategies effectively.

#2 - Interactive Brokers

Why We Chose Interactive Brokers

Interactive Brokers (IBKR) is a premier brokerage for experienced traders, providing access to 150 markets in 33 countries, along with a suite of comprehensive investment services. With over 40 years of experience, this Nasdaq-listed firm adheres to stringent regulations by the SEC, FCA, CIRO, and SFC, amongst others, and is one of the most trusted brokers for trading around the globe.

"Interactive Brokers is one of the best brokers for advanced day traders, providing powerful charting platforms, real-time data, and customizable layouts, notably through the new IBKR Desktop application. Its superb pricing and advanced order options also make it highly attractive for day traders, while its diverse range of equities is still among the best in the industry."

- DayTrading Review Team
  • Instruments: Stocks, Options, Futures, Forex, Funds, Bonds, ETFs, Mutual Funds, CFDs, Cryptocurrencies
  • Regulator: FCA, SEC, FINRA, CBI, CIRO, SFC, MAS, MNB
  • Platforms: Trader Workstation (TWS), IBKR Desktop, GlobalTrader, Mobile, Client Portal, AlgoTrader, OmniTrader, eSignal, TradingCentral
  • Minimum Deposit: $0
  • Minimum Trade: $100
  • Leverage: 1:50

Pros

  • With low commissions, tight spreads and a transparent fee structure, IBKR delivers a cost-effective environment for short-term traders.
  • The TWS platform has clearly been built for intermediate and advanced traders and comes with over 100 order types and a reliable real-time market data feed that rarely goes offline.
  • IBKR is one of the most respected and trusted brokerages and is regulated by top-tier authorities, so you can have confidence in the integrity and security of your trading account.

Cons

  • Support can be slow and frustrating based on tests, so you might find it challenging to reach customer service representatives promptly or encounter delays in resolving issues.
  • You can only have one active session per account, so you can’t have your desktop program and mobile app running simultaneously, making for a sometimes frustrating trading experience.
  • TWS’s learning curve is steep, and beginners may find it challenging to navigate the platform and understand all the features. Plus500's web platform is much better suited to new traders.

#3 - NinjaTrader

Why We Chose NinjaTrader

NinjaTrader is a US-headquartered and regulated brokerage that specializes in futures trading. There are three pricing plans to suit different needs and budgets, as well as ultra-low margins on popular contracts. The brand's award-winning charting software and trading platform also offers a high-degree of customization and superb technical analysis features.

"NinjaTrader continues to meet the demands of active futures traders looking for low fees and premium analysis tools. The platform hosts top-rate charting features including hundreds of indicators and 10+ chart types."

- DayTrading Review Team
  • Instruments: Forex, Stocks, Options, Commodities, Futures, Crypto
  • Regulator: NFA, CFTC
  • Platforms: NinjaTrader Desktop, Web & Mobile, eSignal
  • Minimum Deposit: $0
  • Minimum Trade: 0.01 Lots
  • Leverage: 1:50

Pros

  • Traders can get free platform access and trade simulation capabilities in the unlimited demo
  • NinjaTrader is a widely respected and award-winning futures broker and is heavily authorized by the NFA and CFTC
  • You can get thousands of add-ons and applications from developers in 150+ countries

Cons

  • Non forex and futures trading requires signing up with partner brokers
  • The premium platform tools come with an extra charge
  • There is a withdrawal fee on some funding methods

#4 - AvaTrade

Why We Chose AvaTrade

AvaTrade is a leading forex and CFD broker, established in 2006 and regulated across 9 jurisdictions. Over 400,000 users have signed up with the broker which processes over 2 million trades each month. The firm offers multiple trading platforms, including MT4, MT5, and a proprietary WebTrader. 1250+ financial instruments are available for day trading, alongside a comprehensive education center and multilingual customer support.

"AvaTrade offers the full package for short-term traders. There is powerful charting software, reliable execution, transparent fees, and fast account opening with a low minimum deposit."

- DayTrading Review Team
  • Instruments: CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Bonds, Crypto, Spread Betting
  • Regulator: ASIC, CySEC, FSCA, ISA, CBol, FSA, FRSA, BVI, ADGM
  • Platforms: WebTrader, AvaTradeGO, AvaOptions, MT4, MT5, AlgoTrader, TradingCentral, DupliTrade
  • Minimum Deposit: $100
  • Minimum Trade: 0.01 Lots
  • Leverage: 1:30 (Retail) 1:400 (Pro)

Pros

  • Day traders can access stable spreads and zero commissions with no hidden fees
  • The broker offers reliable 24/5 multilingual customer support with fast response times during testing
  • AvaTrade is a heavily regulated and trustworthy broker with licenses from the ASIC, CySEC and more

Cons

  • There’s an above-average $50 inactivity fee after three months, though this won't impact active day traders
  • Traders from the US are not accepted
  • It’s a shame that there are no rebate schemes for serious traders looking for additional perks - CMC Markets would be a better choice here

#5 - eToro USA

Why We Chose eToro USA

eToro is a social investing platform that offers short-term and long-term trading on stocks, ETFs, options and crypto. The broker is well-known for its user-friendly community-centred platform and competitive fees. With FINRA and SIPC oversight and millions of users across the world, eToro is still one of the most respected brands in the industry. eToro securities trading is offered by eToro USA Securities, Inc.

"eToro remains a top pick for traders looking for leading social investing and copy trading services. With a low deposit, zero commissions and an intuitive platform, the broker will meet the needs of newer day traders."

- DayTrading Review Team
  • Instruments: Stocks, Options, ETFs, Crypto
  • Regulator: SEC, FINRA
  • Platforms: eToro Trading Platform & CopyTrader
  • Minimum Deposit: $10
  • Minimum Trade: $10

Pros

  • A free demo account means new users and prospective day traders can try the broker risk-free
  • eToro USA Securities is a trustworthy, SEC-regulated broker that is a member of FINRA and SIPC
  • The online broker offers an intuitive social investment network with straightforward copy trading on cryptos

Cons

  • Average fees may cut into the profit margins of day traders
  • There's a narrower range of day trading instruments available compared to competitors, with only stocks, ETFs and cryptos
  • The proprietary terminal doesn't support trading bots and there are no additional stock market analysis tools

#6 - Woxa

Why We Chose Woxa

Woxa is an STP broker established in 2021 and regulated by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) in Mauritius. Over 2000 CFDs are available spanning popular asset classes, including forex, stocks, indices, commodities and crypto. Woxa offers an in-house web platform, alongside a mobile app and copy trading service.

"Woxa is best for beginners looking for a low minimum deposit, easy-to-use platform and social investing features. However, it seriously trails alternatives in several key areas, including safety, trading fees and customer support."

- DayTrading Review Team
  • Instruments: CFDs on Forex, Commodities, Stocks, Indices, ETFs
  • Regulator: FSC
  • Platforms: Woxa Platform, App
  • Minimum Deposit: $25
  • Minimum Trade: 0.01
  • Leverage: 1:400

Pros

  • TradingView's charting package is excellent with 100+ indicators and drawing tools
  • The trading platform is very easy to use thanks to its modern design and intuitive navigation
  • It is really easy to open a Woxa account – taking less than 5 minutes

Cons

  • The Academy is good for learning the basics but offers little for experienced traders
  • Traders can't use the MetaTrader platforms and algo trading isn't supported
  • Investors can only deposit with wire transfer and there is a fee for non-USD transfers

#7 - OANDA US

Why We Chose OANDA US

OANDA is a popular brand offering exceptional execution, low deposit requirements and advanced charting and trading platform features. The top-rated brand has over 25 years of experience and is regulated by trusted agencies, including the NFA/CFTC. Around the clock support is available for short-term traders, alongside flexible contract sizes and automated trade executions.

"OANDA remains an excellent broker for US day traders seeking a user-friendly platform with premium analysis tools and a straightforward joining process. OANDA is also heavily regulated with a very high trust score."

- DayTrading Review Team
  • Instruments: Forex, Crypto
  • Regulator: NFA, CFTC
  • Platforms: OANDA Trade, MT4, TradingView, AutoChartist
  • Minimum Deposit: $0
  • Minimum Trade: 0.01 Lots
  • Leverage: 1:50

Pros

  • The proprietary OANDA web platform continues to deliver a highly competitive charting environment, including 65+ technical indicators powered by TradingView
  • OANDA is a reliable, trustworthy and secure brand with authorization from tier-one regulators including the CFTC
  • Seasoned day traders can access industry-leading tools, including an MT4 premium upgrade and advanced charting provided by MotiveWave

Cons

  • The range of day trading markets is limited to forex and cryptos only
  • There's only a small range of payment methods available, with no e-wallets supported
  • It's a shame that customer support is not available on weekends

#8 - Deriv.com

Why We Chose Deriv.com

Deriv.com is a low cost, multi-asset broker with over 2.5 million global clients. With just a $5 minimum deposit, the firm offers CFDs and multipliers, alongside proprietary synthetic products which can't be found elsewhere. Deriv provides both its own in-house charting software and the hugely popular MetaTrader 5.

"Deriv.com will suit day traders looking to make fast-paced trades using CFDs and multipliers with high leverage up to 1:1000. The broker is also the industry leader in synthetic indices, which simulate real market movements and are available around the clock. "

- DayTrading Review Team
  • Instruments: CFDs, Multipliers, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities
  • Regulator: MFSA, LFSA, VFSC, BFSC
  • Platforms: Deriv Trader, MT5
  • Minimum Deposit: $5
  • Minimum Trade: 0.01 Lots
  • Leverage: 1:1000

Pros

  • Traders can use multipliers between 1 and 30, with take profit, stop loss and deal cancellation parameters
  • There's a good range of fast deposit and withdrawal methods with zero payment fees and low minimum deposits
  • The low $5 minimum initial deposit suits those on a lower budget

Cons

  • The range of 100+ assets trails some competitors such as Quotex which offers 400+
  • There's no loyalty program or rebate scheme for high volume traders
  • There are limited copy trading tools and analysis features compared to alternatives like IQ Cent

#9 - Pepperstone

Why We Chose Pepperstone

Established in Australia in 2010, Pepperstone is a top-rated forex and CFD broker with over 400,000 clients worldwide. It offers access to 1,300+ instruments on leading platforms MT4, MT5, cTrader and TradingView, maintaining low, transparent fees. Pepperstone is also regulated by trusted authorities like the FCA, ASIC, and CySEC, ensuring a secure environment for day traders at all levels.

"Pepperstone stands out as a top choice for day trading, offering razor-sharp spreads, ultra-fast execution, and advanced charting platforms for experienced traders. New traders are also welcomed with no minimum deposit, extensive educational resources, and exceptional 24/7 support."

- DayTrading Review Team
  • Instruments: CFDs, Forex, Currency Indices, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, ETFs, Crypto, Spread Betting
  • Regulator: FCA, ASIC, CySEC, DFSA, CMA, BaFin, SCB
  • Platforms: MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, AutoChartist, DupliTrade
  • Minimum Deposit: $0
  • Minimum Trade: 0.01 Lots
  • Leverage: 1:30 (Retail), 1:500 (Pro)

Pros

  • Now offering spread betting through TradingView, Pepperstone provides a seamless, tax-efficient trading experience with advanced analysis tools.
  • There’s support for a range of industry-leading charting platforms including MT4, MT5, TradingView, and cTrader, catering to various short-term trading styles, including algo trading.
  • Pepperstone emerges as a low-cost broker, especially for serious day traders with spreads from 0.0 in the Razor account and rebates of 25%+ through the Active Trader program.

Cons

  • Pepperstone’s demo accounts are active for only 30 days, which may not be not long enough to familiarize yourself with the different platforms and test trading strategies.
  • Pepperstone does not support cTrader Copy, a popular copy trading feature built into the excellent cTrader platform and available at alternatives like IC Markets.
  • There’s no simplified proprietary trading platform, nor are there any social trading features, which could be a disadvantage if you are new to day trading.

#10 - XM

Why We Chose XM

XM is a globally recognized forex and CFD broker with 10+ million clients in 190+ countries. Since 2009, this trusted broker has been known for its low fees on 1000+ instruments. XM is regulated by multiple financial bodies, including the ASIC and CySEC.

"XM is one of the best forex and CFD brokers we have tested. The flexible account types will suit a variety of short-term trading styles while the $5 minimum deposit and smooth sign-up process make it easy to start trading."

- DayTrading Review Team
  • Instruments: Forex, Stock CFDs, Turbo Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Precious Metals, Energies, Shares, Crypto, Futures
  • Regulator: ASIC, CySEC, DFSA, FSC, FSCA
  • Platforms: MT4, MT5
  • Minimum Deposit: $5
  • Minimum Trade: 0.01 Lots
  • Leverage: 1:1000

Pros

  • XM continues to deliver diverse and multilingual educational materials and offers a useful live education schedule for its webinars and insights
  • XM is a hugely respected broker authorized by tier-one regulators
  • Accessible trading accounts with a $5 minimum deposit and fast account opening

Cons

  • There's $5 inactivity fee after only 3 months, though this won't affect active traders
  • PayPal deposits are not supported
  • There is weak regulatory oversight through the global entity

#11 - IC Markets

Why We Chose IC Markets

IC Markets is a globally recognized forex and CFD broker known for its excellent pricing, comprehensive range of trading instruments, and premium trading technology. Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Australia, the brokerage is regulated by the ASIC, CySEC and FSA, and has attracted more than 180,000 clients from over 200 countries.

"IC Markets offers superior pricing, exceptionally fast execution and seamless deposits. The introduction of advanced charting platforms, notably TradingView, and the Raw Trader Plus account, ensures it remains a top choice for intermediate to advanced day traders."

- DayTrading Review Team
  • Instruments: CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Bonds, Futures, Crypto
  • Regulator: ASIC, CySEC, FSA
  • Platforms: MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView, TradingCentral, DupliTrade
  • Minimum Deposit: $200
  • Minimum Trade: 0.01 Lots
  • Leverage: 1:30 (ASIC & CySEC), 1:500 (FSA), 1:1000 (Global)

Pros

  • You have access to over 2,250 CFDs across various markets, including forex, commodities, indices, stocks, bonds, and cryptocurrencies, allowing for diversified trading strategies.
  • With ultra-fast execution speeds averaging 35 milliseconds and deep liquidity, IC Markets provides an optimal trading environment for scalpers, hedgers, and algorithmic traders.
  • IC Markets offers among the tightest spreads in the industry, with 0.0-pip spreads on major currency pairs, making it especially cost-effective for day traders.

Cons

  • The breadth and depth of tutorials, webinars and educational resources still need work, trailing alternatives like CMC Markets and reducing its suitability for beginners.
  • While IC Markets offers a selection of metals and cryptos for trading via CFDs, the range is not as extensive as brokers like eToro, limiting opportunities for traders interested in these asset classes.
  • Interest isn't paid on unused cash, an increasingly popular feature found at alternatives like Interactive Brokers.

#12 - Eightcap

Why We Chose Eightcap

Eightcap is a forex and CFD broker founded in Australia in 2009. The brand is popular with serious day traders for its raw spreads on 1000+ instruments and advanced MetaTrader platforms. With five global offices and ASIC regulation, Eightcap has built a strong reputation. New traders can also sign up for a live account in just a few minutes.

"Eightcap is great for day traders familiar with MT4 and MT5 and looking to trade forex and CFDs in a secure environment. The brand is also a great pick for crypto traders with 100+ derivatives, a sophisticated market scanner, plus Bitcoin and Tether deposits."

- DayTrading Review Team
  • Instruments: CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
  • Regulator: FCA, ASIC, CySEC, SCB
  • Platforms: MT4, MT5, TradingView
  • Minimum Deposit: $100
  • Minimum Trade: 0.01 Lots
  • Leverage: 1:500

Pros

  • Crypto Crusher market scanner with sentiment indicators, news and short term trading signals for global clients
  • 100+ crypto derivatives are available for global clients, which is more than most brokers, including crypto crosses and indices
  • Raw spreads from 0.0 pips and a low $3.5 commission will appeal to active traders

Cons

  • There are only four commodities available, which may disappoint experienced day traders looking to diversify their portfolios
  • The demo account can only be extended upon request
  • There are several frustrating jurisdictional restrictions - for example, the Crypto Crusher tool is not available for UK or Australian clients

#13 - LiteForex Europe

Why We Chose LiteForex Europe

LiteForex Europe is a CFD broker established in 2008 and authorized by the CySEC. The brokerage offers forex, commodities and indices via the MT4 and MT5 platforms. Spreads are ultra tight on ECN accounts and leverage is available up to 1:30 in line with EU regulations. LiteForex also offers a rich education centre for new day traders and social trading capabilities.

"LiteForex is a good option for active day traders with variable spreads from 0.0 pips, daily analysis and high-quality training guides. The forex copy system also lets you duplicate the positions of experienced traders."

- DayTrading Review Team
  • Instruments: CFDs, Forex, Indices, Commodities
  • Regulator: CySEC
  • Platforms: MT4, MT5
  • Minimum Deposit: $50
  • Minimum Trade: 0.01 Lots
  • Leverage: 1:30

Pros

  • There's a comprehensive analytics portal by Claws&Horns, which offers video reviews, expert insights and short-term trading signals
  • The broker offers a VPS server for experience day traders looking to run their auto strategies continuously
  • LiteForex offers a range of proprietary mobile app tools which are ideal for traders who want to analyze the markets on the go

Cons

  • The range of day trading markets is limited compared to alternatives, with no share CFDs offered
  • Fees are fairly high, with spreads starting from 2.0 pips in the Classic account and $10 forex commissions in the ECN account
  • There are limited funding methods compared to other brands

#14 - CityIndex

Why We Chose CityIndex

City Index is an established and award-winning forex, CFD and spread betting broker with top-tier global regulation, including in the UK (FCA) and Australia (ASIC). With 30+ years in the industry, 13,500+ instruments and 24/5 customer support, City Index is a solid pick for aspiring traders.

"City Index is best for new and intermediate traders looking for a wide selection of assets on user-friendly platforms."

- DayTrading Review Team
  • Instruments: CFDs, Forex, Stocks, Cryptos, Options, Commodities, Bonds
  • Regulator: ASIC, FCA, MAS
  • Platforms: MT4, TradingView, TradingCentral
  • Minimum Deposit: $0
  • Minimum Trade: 0.01 Lots
  • Leverage: 1:30 (Retail), 1:50 (Accredited Investor), 1:200 (Sophisticated Investor), 1:300 (Wholesale Investor), 1:400 (Professional Trader). Varies with jurisdiction.

Pros

  • No minimum deposit to get started
  • Tight spreads from 0.5 pips on EUR/USD and competitive commissions on CFD shares
  • Industry-leading platforms including MT4, plus access to cutting-edge third-party tools like TradingView

Cons

  • Cryptocurrency trading not available in all locations
  • $15 monthly inactivity fee
  • US traders not accepted

#15 - DNA Markets

Why We Chose DNA Markets

DNA Markets is a forex and CFD broker established in 2020. The broker operates two entities in Australia and the offshore jurisdiction, St Vincent and the Grenadines. Traders can access 250+ markets, with a Standard account for beginners and a Raw account for experienced traders. The reliable MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 platforms are available, alongside Signal Start.

"DNA Markets is an excellent choice for short-term traders familiar with the MetaTrader platforms. The smooth sign-up process also makes it easy to get started while the $100 minimum deposit is accessible. That said, DNA Markets trails the top brokers in education, research and mobile trading. "

- DayTrading Review Team
  • Instruments: CFDs, Forex, Indices, Commodities, Stocks, Crypto
  • Regulator: ASIC
  • Platforms: MT4, MT5
  • Minimum Deposit: $100
  • Minimum Trade: 0.01 Lots
  • Leverage: 1:500

Pros

  • Convenient account funding with 7 base currencies, a $100 deposit and a wide range of payment methods
  • Top-rate platforms and charting tools for day traders with access to MT4 and MT5
  • Low trading fees with spreads from 0.0 pips in the Raw account and zero non-trading fees

Cons

  • The investment offering trails alternatives, especially in terms of stocks, cryptos and commodities
  • There are limited educational and research tools, reducing its appeal to beginners
  • Although it continues to strengthen its client base and reputation DNA Markets lacks the track record of top brokers like Vantage

History

The FSB came to life in 1991, following the recommendations of the Van Der Host Committee. Their findings called for an independent agency capable of regulating the non-banking financial services industry.

FSB offices and departments have since expanded along with their mandate. For example, in September of 2004, the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act (FAIS) gave the FSB extra powers to monitor market conduct in the banking industry.

The Financial Intelligence Centre Act in 2001 then gave the FSB head office the additional responsibility of tackling money laundering. Other expansions have led to an increase in the numbers of compliance officers and reporting requirements.

Overall, from their home address in Pretoria, the FSB has become a reputable body, bringing stability to the industry. It is unsurprising then that their scope has extended, allowing it to better protect consumers of financial products through regulations.

Structure

As the official website details, the FSB is made up of various committees. However, it is the board, made up of key individuals, that supervises operations. It is also the board members that appoint the Executive Officer, who leads the FSB on a day-to-day basis. The Executive Officer is also the Registrar of Non-banking Financial Institutions.

The four Deputy Executive Officers oversee the:

The regulatory agency receives all funding from license fees and other costs levied on the industry. Those funds are used to pay for everything from staff training to annual reports. In addition, the body funds both the ‘Office of the FAIS Ombud’ and the ‘Office of the PFA’. However, both offices are independent of the FSB and tackle the complaints of financial consumers.

Powers & Responsibilities

FSB responsibilities include:

Within those responsibilities is ensuring compliance with current legislation and regulations. This can include requirements around:

The FSB also has an enforcement committee. That committee has enforcement powers to tackle breaches of regulations through unlimited penalties and compensation orders.

The database of registered forex brokers and other financial providers is extensive. As a result, all orders carry significant weight. In fact, an FSB order has the same enforcement validity as a judgement from the Supreme Court of South Africa.

Additional powers include the verification of license categories for financial institutions. Other responsibilities include analysing the markets for potential risks. Hence the FSB will release short-term insurance and risk reports.

It’s also worth noting the body has some discretion around regulations. It can hand out exemptions and has actually come under fire in the past for showing leniency towards certain companies.

Customer Complaints

With so many documents and guidance notes for companies to comply with, financial providers often fall short. As a result, there is often a large number of disgruntled firms. So on top of a customer complaints service, there is an appeals board for those who disagree with FSB regulations and decisions.

The board is independent of the FSB and approved nominees come directly from the Minister of Finance. You also cannot join the board if you are an active member of the financial industry.

The aim is that all of the above powers and responsibilities help ensure the functionality of financial entities, thereby protecting investors.

Criticisms of the FSB

Despite the benefits of the FSB, the agency also faces criticism. In particular, the body frequently features in the news following questions about corruption. For example, the Office of the Public Prosecutor is looking into claims of extortion, fraud, bullying, intimidation and mismanagement by the head of the FSB, Dude Tshidi.

In 2017, Julius Malema, president of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), accused Tshidi of “gross misconduct, abuse of power and perjury”. Malema then went further to say, “We have seen substantial documented evidence indicating that for years he has been responsible for gross misconduct, material abuse of the powers of the FSB, perjury, withholding information and ongoing efforts to cover up wrongdoing, intimidation of members and corporate institutions, and breaches of his fiduciary duties”.

These complaints originate from a relationship between lawyer Anthony Mostert and Tshidi regarding 10 pension funds. It has been said Tshidi made Mostert curator of all 10 funds, who then brought in his law firm to advise in a blatant conflict of interest. Furthermore, it is claimed Mostert then charged inflated curatorship contingency fees.

Despite press releases from the FSB to refute these claims, these enquiries remain a serious test for the regulatory agency. It also highlights that the FSB still has a long way to go to cement its position as a reputable, impartial body, such as the UK’s FCA.

Recent Performance

Quarterly reports show the FSB are active in carrying out enforcement actions. Within the first three months of 2018, the agency handed out R350,000 in administrative penalties. In the last quarter of 2017, the body gave out nearly R1.5 million in fines.

Large fines have helped ensure brokers and other institutions rigorously stick to application processes and regulations. If the FSB continues to hold institutions to account, consumer confidence and protection will only increase.

Note you can view recent regulatory actions by heading to their official website. You can also find their email address and telephone number in their Contact Us section. Representatives should be able to help you with licence checks, give information on application progress, plus a whole load more.

Final Thoughts on the FSB

Despite a relatively short lifespan, the FSB has grown into an effective, active regulatory agency. Having said that, the company still has some way to go to overcome accusations of corruption and mismanagement.

Before you sign up and login to your trading account, you must check for regulatory oversight. Conducting an online broker search and browsing reviews are easier now than ever before. In fact, this is one of the most important steps you can take to keep your investments relatively secure.