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Trading in South Africa

South Africa is a sophisticated market, regulated mainly by the FSCA, the Financial Sector Conduct Authority.

Top-rated platforms for South Africans

Regulation and the FSCA

Every financial services provider in South Africa must be authorised by the FSCA. The regulator's focus is on treating customers fairly and protecting market integrity.

The FSP number

Authorised providers carry a Financial Services Provider (FSP) number. Verify it on the FSCA portal, and be clear on whether a broker has a local presence or operates purely as an offshore entity.

What to check

  • FSP number. Always verify a broker's Financial Services Provider number on the FSCA portal.
  • Local vs offshore. Understand the difference between a local presence and a purely offshore entity.
  • Currency and funding. Look for platforms that support ZAR accounts to avoid heavy FX fees.
  • Product range. Check for JSE-listed shares alongside global asset access.

NoteAvailability varies by provider and where you live. Always confirm registration and product availability directly with the provider and your local regulator.

A reminder

Market Wise Guide is an educational publisher and comparison site, not a broker or financial adviser. Speak with a qualified professional before opening an account.