Interactive Brokers: Global Office Visits and Licensing Details

Interactive Brokers: Global Office Visits & Licensing Details

Interactive Brokers, a renowned online brokerage firm, has become a staple for investors looking for comprehensive and competitive trading services. With a presence in multiple regions and a robust regulatory framework, its legitimacy has often been a subject of investigation by independent platforms like WikiFX. WikiFX, a global regulator inquiry app, has conducted several on-site surveys to confirm the existence of Interactive Brokers offices and to ensure their alignment with regulatory standards.

This article will provide an overview of the findings from WikiFX's field surveys across different countries, detailing the findings at Interactive Brokers' offices and its regulatory status in multiple key markets such as the UK, Japan, the US, Australia, and Hong Kong.

1. Office Visit in London, United Kingdom

WikiFX recently conducted a field survey in London to visit Interactive Brokers' office. According to the findings, the office is registered with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, a stringent regulatory body. The survey confirmed the presence of the office at the address located in the heart of London. However, due to security protocols, the team was unable to enter the building without an appointment. This suggests that the office exists but is likely not open to walk-in visitors.

Regulatory Status:

Interactive Brokers (UK) Ltd is regulated by the FCA (License No. 208159) and has been licensed since 2002, ensuring full compliance with UK laws and regulations.

2. Office Visit in Tokyo, Japan

In Tokyo, Japan, WikiFX conducted a survey to confirm the existence of Interactive Brokers' office in the region. The office, located at Kasumigaseki building in Chiyoda, was found to be in a prime business area next to major government offices. However, the surveyors encountered difficulties accessing the office directly, as they were not allowed inside without prior notice. Despite this, the company logo was clearly visible in the building directory, confirming the company's presence at the address.

Regulatory Status:

Interactive Brokers Japan is regulated by Japan's Financial Services Agency (License No. 187) and has held a retail forex license since 2007, ensuring investor protection under Japanese regulations.

3. Field Visit in Greenwich, USA

In Greenwich, Connecticut, USA, WikiFXs survey team visited the office of Interactive Brokers but found that the location did not match the expectations. The office was not visible and no logos or other identifying markers were found outside the building. The survey team rang the doorbell to inquire but was unable to gain access. This raises concerns about the transparency and physical presence of the office, which investors should consider when trading with this broker.

Regulatory Status:

Interactive Brokers is regulated in the USA by several authorities, including the U.S. SEC and FINRA, and has been in compliance with US laws.

4. Office Visit in Sydney, Australia

Interactive Brokers' office in Sydney was confirmed during a field survey conducted by WikiFX. The team visited a modern building in the city's business district and easily found the office on the 40th floor. The company logo was visible on the buildings directory, and the office itself was open and welcoming. This provided reassurance that Interactive Brokers operates a legitimate office in Australia and complies with local regulations.

Regulatory Status:

Interactive Brokers is licensed in Australia by the Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) under Market Maker (MM) regulation, and its license number is 000453554. The broker has been regulated in Australia since 2016.

5. Office Visit in Hong Kong

In Hong Kong, WikiFX confirmed that Interactive Brokers operates an office at Pacific Place, a busy commercial area. The surveyors found the office signage and were able to visit the company's reception area without issues. The team was greeted warmly and shown around the office, which also displayed the company logo prominently.

Regulatory Status:

Interactive Brokers is regulated in Hong Kong by the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) under License No. ADI249 and has been licensed since 2004. This confirms the broker's commitment to maintaining regulatory compliance in the region.

Conclusion

WikiFXs comprehensive on-site visits confirm that Interactive Brokers does indeed maintain physical offices in various locations around the globe, although accessibility and transparency vary across regions. The firm is rigorously regulated in key jurisdictions, including the UK, US, Japan, Australia, and Hong Kong, providing investors with a sense of security. However, potential clients should remain cautious and consider any discrepancies, such as difficulty in accessing certain offices or unclear signage, when making investment decisions.

For investors, it's important to research the regulatory status of brokers and their physical presence before committing funds. Interactive Brokers stands out for its global reach and regulatory adherence but always ensures that local regulations and available offices match the broker's claims.

You can check out more of Interactive Brokers trading offers and promotion at broker's page.

Broker's Page: https://www.wikifx.com/en/dealer/0001646186.html