When trading stocks, forex, options, or cryptocurrencies in the U.S., it’s crucial to use a broker regulated by U.S. authorities to ensure security and compliance. Below is a detailed list of regulated brokers in the United States, along with their regulatory oversight.
1. Regulatory Bodies in the U.S.
Brokers in the U.S. must be registered with one or more of the following regulatory agencies:
- Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) – Regulates securities markets.
- Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) – Oversees brokerage firms.
- Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) – Regulates futures and forex brokers.
- National Futures Association (NFA) – Self-regulatory organization for derivatives markets.
2. List of Major Regulated Brokers in the U.S.
A. Stock & ETF Brokers
These brokers are registered with the SEC and FINRA and offer trading in stocks, ETFs, and options.
Broker Name Regulatory Body Key Features Charles Schwab SEC, FINRA Large investment firm, low fees, strong research tools Fidelity Investments SEC, FINRA Zero-commission stock trades, retirement accounts TD Ameritrade (now part of Charles Schwab) SEC, FINRA Advanced trading platforms (Thinkorswim) E*TRADE (now part of Morgan Stanley) SEC, FINRA User-friendly platform, banking services Interactive Brokers (IBKR) SEC, FINRA, CFTC, NFA Low-cost global trading, professional tools Robinhood SEC, FINRA Commission-free trading, mobile-first approach
B. Forex & CFD Brokers
These brokers are regulated by the CFTC and NFA (Note: U.S. regulations restrict CFD trading).
Broker Name Regulatory Body Key Features OANDA CFTC, NFA Trusted forex broker, strong regulatory history Forex.com (GAIN Capital) CFTC, NFA Major forex broker, advanced charting TD Ameritrade (Forex) CFTC, NFA Forex trading via Thinkorswim Interactive Brokers (Forex) CFTC, NFA Competitive forex spreads
C. Futures & Commodities Brokers
These brokers are registered with the CFTC and NFA.
Broker Name Regulatory Body Key Features NinjaTrader CFTC, NFA Popular for futures trading, low commissions AMP Futures CFTC, NFA Discount futures broker, multiple platforms TradeStation CFTC, NFA, SEC, FINRA Advanced futures and options trading
D. Cryptocurrency Brokers (SEC & FinCEN-Registered)
While crypto is less strictly regulated, some platforms comply with U.S. rules.
Broker Name Regulatory Compliance Key Features Coinbase FinCEN, SEC (for some services) Largest U.S.-based crypto exchange Kraken FinCEN, state regulators Strong security, futures trading Gemini NYDFS, SEC (for Gemini Earn) Regulated by NY State
3. How to Verify a Broker’s Regulation
Before signing up with any broker, check their registration:
- SEC’s EDGAR Database: https://www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml
- FINRA BrokerCheck: https://brokercheck.finra.org/
- NFA BASIC System: https://www.nfa.futures.org
4. Risks of Using Unregulated Brokers
Avoid offshore brokers not registered in the U.S., as they may:
- Lack investor protection (e.g., no SIPC insurance).
- Engage in fraudulent activities.
- Offer illegal products (e.g., high-leverage CFDs banned in the U.S.).
5. Conclusion
Choosing a regulated broker ensures legal compliance and financial security. The brokers listed above are fully authorized in the U.S., making them safe choices for traders and investors.
Would you like recommendations based on your trading style (e.g., day trading, long-term investing)? Let me know!