Financial Industry Regulatory Authority
(FINRA)Regulatory Snapshot
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority is the largest independent self-regulatory organisation governing the securities industry in the United States. Established in 2007 from the consolidation of NASD and NYSE member regulation, FINRA oversees approximately 3,400 broker-dealer firms and more than 600,000 registered securities representatives, operating under the oversight of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
- Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC) — up to $500,000 per customer (including $250,000 for cash)
- BrokerCheck system for public verification of broker and firm backgrounds
- Comprehensive arbitration and mediation programme for investor disputes
- Strict suitability and best interest obligations under Regulation Best Interest
FINRA regulates securities broker-dealers, not forex. Forex is regulated by CFTC/NFA. FINRA operates under SEC oversight.
Body: FINRA Dispute Resolution Services
Visit Dispute ResolutionRelated Regulators
CFTC
AAATier 1Commodity Futures Trading Commission
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission is an independent agency of the United States Government that regulates the US derivatives markets, including futures, swaps, and certain kinds of options. Established in 1975, the CFTC enforces one of the world's strictest regulatory frameworks for forex trading, with capital requirements that far exceed most international standards.
NFA
AATier 1National Futures Association
The National Futures Association is the industry-wide, self-regulatory organisation for the US derivatives industry. Working in partnership with the CFTC, the NFA develops rules, programmes, and services to safeguard market integrity, protect investors, and help its members fulfil their regulatory obligations. NFA membership is mandatory for all entities conducting futures and forex business in the United States.
CIMA
ATier 2Cayman Islands Monetary Authority
The Cayman Islands Monetary Authority is the regulatory body responsible for the supervision of financial services businesses in the Cayman Islands. Established in 1997, CIMA regulates banks, insurance companies, mutual funds, money service businesses, and securities investment firms within one of the world's most prominent international financial centres.
BMA
ATier 2Bermuda Monetary Authority
The Bermuda Monetary Authority is the integrated regulatory authority for the financial services sector in Bermuda. Established in 1969, the BMA supervises, regulates, and inspects financial institutions operating in or from Bermuda, including banks, investment businesses, insurance companies, and trust companies.
FinCEN
BTier 3Financial Crimes Enforcement Network
The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network is a bureau of the US Department of the Treasury. FinCEN's mission is to safeguard the financial system from illicit use, combat money laundering, and promote national security. While FinCEN does not regulate forex dealers in terms of market conduct or consumer protection, forex dealers must register with FinCEN as Money Services Businesses.
BCB
ATier 3Central Bank of Brazil
The Central Bank of Brazil (Banco Central do Brasil) is Brazil's monetary authority, responsible for monetary policy, currency issuance, financial system supervision, and foreign exchange market regulation. Established in 1964, the BCB plays a central role in regulating one of Latin America's largest and most dynamic financial markets.