A broker review is only as good as the questions behind it. Rather than trusting a rating in isolation, run the same checks on any platform before you send it money.
Registration and legal footing
Start with the regulator's own register, not the broker's marketing page. Confirm the exact legal entity name and licence number, then check whether the regulator lists any warnings against a similar name — a common clone tactic.
Custody and asset segregation
- Does the platform hold client assets separately from company funds?
- Are there published proof-of-reserves or audit statements, and are they current?
- What happens to your balance if the company fails?
Fees and withdrawal terms
Deposit friction is not the risk; withdrawal friction is. Read the withdrawal policy, minimums, and any bonus terms that lock funds. A venue that makes deposits instant and withdrawals slow deserves extra scrutiny.
Track record
Search for independent reports and dated user complaints, weighting recent evidence over old testimonials.
This research checklist is for information only and is not financial advice or an endorsement of any platform. Verify every claim independently before depositing.