CIMA - Financial Regulator

The regulator

Updated Aug 7, 2026

About CIMA

The Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA) was established on 1 January 1997 and licenses banks, trust companies, insurers, funds, money services businesses, virtual asset service providers and securities investment business firms in or from the Cayman Islands. Two facts matter most before trusting a firm here: the public register separates full licensees from registered persons, who are exempt from holding a licence because they deal only with sophisticated or high net worth clients, and CIMA states it is not empowered to compel an entity to pay compensation to a customer. A complaint must normally reach CIMA within one year, and must be raised with the firm first.

Tier 3

Brokers on the record: 17
Compensation cap: None
Retail leverage cap: 1:500
Cost of a licence: USD 30,000–50,000

The Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA) was established on 1 January 1997, as a body corporate under the Monetary Authority Law. CIMA was established as the combination of the Financial Services Supervision Department of the Cayman Islands Government and the Cayman Islands Currency Board. In doing so, CIMA assumed the functions of both, namely, responsibility for the issuance of currency and other monetary functions, regulation of financial services, and advisory services relating to financial services.

Core Functions

CIMA is the sole regulator responsible for regulating all financial services entities that are located in or operate from the Cayman Islands. CIMA's functions are wide and include:

• Issuing and redeeming Cayman Islands currency and managing the currency reserves of the Cayman Islands

• Regulating and supervising financial institutions and others conducting financial services

• Monitoring compliance with the Islands' anti-money laundering (AML) legislation

• Publishing a regulatory handbook, with policies and procedures, rules, and statements of principle

• Guiding market participants to ensure that regulatory standards are applied fairly and consistently

• Assisting foreign regulators in terms of Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) for consolidated supervision

• Providing advice to the Cayman Islands Government on monetary, regulatory, and cooperative matters

By bringing all these functions together in CIMA, it enables CIMA to play a significant role in maintaining financial stability.It assists the islands with developing and maintaining their reputation as a reputable international financial centre.

Mission & Vision

CIMA's mission is to protect and enhance the integrity of the financial services industry in the Cayman Islands, while ensuring it operates firmly and transparently.

CIMA's vision is to promote a well-regulated, innovative, and thriving financial system that is compliant, provides value, and adheres to international standards, which is key to achieving success.

Core Values

CIMA's work is grounded in several core values that shape its internal and external relationships.

• Teamwork - Helping individuals to achieve a common goal.

• Accountability - Maintaining responsibility and transparency at all levels.

• Excellence - Achieving the highest possible standard in regulation and supervision.

• Collaboration - Striving to create strong relationships and effective partnerships to build common goals.

• Integrity - Promoting honest and ethical practice as part of our business.

• Respect - Valuing and appreciating differences, and earning the trust of stakeholders.

Primary Functions

CIMA's operations include four primary functions:

1.Monetary

The management of the issue, redemption of, and the containment of Cayman Islands currency, and the management of the currency reserves of the Cayman Islands.

2.Regulatory

The regulation, supervision, and compliance with laws governing the financial services industry in the Cayman Islands are achieved by producing a regulatory handbook that contains policies, principles, and procedural guidance.

3.Cooperative

Assisting overseas regulators with their more streamlined approaches, such as Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs), to provide consolidated supervision for a licensee experiencing regulatory oversight in multiple jurisdictions, and fostering cooperative relationships with foreign regulatory authorities.

4.Advisory

Providing advice to the Cayman Islands Government in relation to monetary policy, regulation, and cooperative frameworks.

On the record

Established: 1997
Country: Cayman Islands
Oversight: Government body
Membership: IOSCO and FATF member
Transparency: Medium
Public register: Open the register
Website: cima.ky
Phone: 345 2441679
Email: contactinvestments@cimoney.com.ky
Online contact: cima.ky

Protection check

What a licence from CIMA protects

No compensation scheme is recorded for firms licensed by CIMA; a dispute a firm will not settle can go to CIMA Complaints.

4 facts on record

No compensation scheme
Client money kept separate
Complaints routeCIMA Complaints
Maximum leverage1:500

What is protected

The protection documented for securities clients is insurance carried by the licensee. CIMA states that all licensees must hold and maintain adequate insurance covering professional indemnity, professional liability of senior officers and corporate secretaries, and business interruption, under section 4(1) of the Securities Investment Business (Conduct of Business) Regulations. The professional indemnity limit should be at least CI$1,000,000 (US$1,219,512.20) for any one claim and CI$1,500,000 (US$1,829,268.29) in aggregate, with an insurer licensed to carry on domestic business in the Cayman Islands. Licensees also face base financial resource requirements of CI$100,000 for broker dealers, market makers and securities managers, and CI$15,000 for other licensees. On redress, CIMA states it is not empowered to compel an entity to pay compensation, and that it does not provide assistance with the recovery of funds. See limitationsNote for what could not be confirmed.

How to verify a licence

Use CIMA's own search page at https://www.cima.ky/search-entities-cima, which the Authority describes as a search for entities that are currently licensed or registered by it. The steps CIMA sets out: type the full name, or part of the name, of the entity in the text box; choose the sector from the drop-down box or choose All; then click Submit or press Enter. The form also requires completing the I am not a robot check before it will run. Read the sector value in the result carefully: the drop-down separates Securities - Full, Securities - Restricted and Securities - Registered Person, and a registered person is exempt from holding a securities licence. For a securities licensee, CIMA states that after issuing the certificate it updates the list to include the licensee's name, business address and details of permitted activities, so ask the firm to point at that entry.

Open the register Official website

How to complain

Raise the complaint with the firm first. CIMA's Policy on Complaints Against Licensees, Registrants and Other Supervised Entities states that the matter should first be raised with the entity and that the Authority will request proof the complainant took reasonable steps to resolve it there. Complaints must be in writing with the complainant's name and contact details; anonymous complaints are not accepted. The deadline is one year from the date the complainant became aware, or ought reasonably to have become aware, of the cause for complaint. Submit through the online form on CIMA's website (marked recommended), by post to the Deputy Managing Director - Supervision, P.O. Box 10052, Grand Cayman KY1-1001, or by hand at Pavilion East, Cricket Square, George Town. CIMA acknowledges receipt within five business days, states it is not empowered to arbitrate or to compel compensation, and states its findings generally cannot be disclosed to the complainant.

Licensing terms

Getting licensed by CIMA

A licence from CIMA costs USD 30,000–50,000 to obtain on the record and covers 8 instrument types.

USD 30,000–50,000

Licence types: Securities Investment Business Licence
Business models allowed: Retail Agency (STP); Market Maker (Principal); Provide Liquidity (PoP)
Cost to obtain: USD 30000-50000
Coverage: Most countries worldwide (exceptions apply)
Not served: North Korea - UN-sanctioned countries

8 instruments regulated

Forex
Bond
Stocks
Options
Derivatives
Commodity
Securities
Futures

Requirements, as CIMA publishes them

Requirements for Obtaining a License under the Israel Securities Authority (ISA)

To operate within Israel’s capital markets, businesses and financial entities must obtain a license from the Israel Securities Authority (ISA). The licensing process ensures that only qualified and compliant entities participate in the financial sector, protecting investors and maintaining market integrity.

Key Requirements for Licensing

Company Registration:

The applicant must be registered as a legal entity within Israel.
The company’s structure must comply with Israeli corporate laws.

Capital Adequacy:

The applicant must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support the proposed business activities.
Proof of minimum capital requirements as determined by ISA based on the type of license.

Business Plan and Strategy:

A comprehensive business plan detailing:
Proposed services and financial activities
Corporate governance framework
Projected financial performance
The plan must align with ISA’s regulatory standards for transparency and accountability.

Qualified Personnel:

Key individuals, such as directors, executives, and compliance officers, must:
Meet ISA’s “fit and proper” criteria for experience, integrity, and professional qualifications.
Demonstrate expertise in financial services and securities management.

Risk Management and Compliance Framework:

Applicants must submit detailed policies and systems for:
Risk management
Compliance monitoring
Anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) procedures
Ensuring these frameworks meet ISA’s regulatory guidelines is essential.

Financial Statements and Reports:

Submission of historic financial records if the entity is already operational, including:
Audited balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.
Newly established entities must submit detailed financial forecasts.

Internal Control and Reporting Mechanisms:

Implementation of strong internal controls to ensure transparent operations.
Systems for periodic reporting to the ISA as part of ongoing regulatory compliance.

Application Process

Preparation of Documentation:

Gather all required documents, including financial statements, business plans, and governance structures.

Submission to ISA:

Submit the application and required documents to the ISA for review.

Payment of Licensing Fees:

Payment of applicable fees based on the type of license sought.

Assessment and Evaluation:

The ISA will thoroughly evaluate the application to verify compliance with legal, financial, and operational standards.
Additional information or documents may be requested during the review process.

Issuance of License:

Upon successful assessment, the ISA will grant the license, enabling the applicant to provide regulated financial services in Israel.

Ongoing Obligations for License Holders

After obtaining the license, entities must:

Comply with ISA’s periodic reporting requirements.
Maintain adequate capital reserves.
Ensure ongoing compliance with risk management and AML policies.
Participate in regular audits and inspections conducted by the ISA.

By fulfilling these requirements, applicants can secure a license to operate under the supervision of the Israel Securities Authority (ISA). This licensing framework ensures that Israel’s capital markets remain transparent, competitive, and secure, ultimately protecting the interests of investors and the public.

From the documents

Reviewed Aug 25, 2026

What CIMA's own documents say

23 facts read from 28 official documents published by CIMA, each quoted and linked to its source.

23 facts

Jurisdiction and scope

The Securities Investment Business Act reaches two classes of person: any Cayman Islands company or partnership, wherever it conducts securities investment business, and any person with an established place of business in the Cayman Islands through which that business is carried on. The four regulated activities are dealing in securities, arranging deals in securities, managing securities and advising on securities, and only where carried on in the course of business. Schedule 1 defines securities to include options, futures and rights under contracts for differences. Schedule 3 excluded activities and Schedule 4 registered persons sit outside the licence requirement. Separately, credit unions and building societies are not licensed by CIMA: they register with the General Registry and are subject to CIMA oversight under the Cooperative Societies Act and the Building Societies Act.

Using this regulator

Check the sector label on the register result, not just the presence of a name: Securities - Registered Person means the firm is registered and exempt from holding a licence, on the basis that it deals exclusively with the persons or institutions in Schedule 4. If a firm shows that status and is onboarding you as a retail client, ask which Schedule 4 category it relies on. Ask a licensed firm for its permitted activities, since CIMA records those. Diarise the one year complaint window from the moment you become aware of a problem, keep your written exchanges with the firm because CIMA requires proof you tried there first, and expect an acknowledgement within five business days rather than a compensation award. A licence whose renewal fee is unpaid by 31 March lapses, so a status checked in January is worth rechecking later in the year. Read the Decision Notices and Warning Notices pages for cancellations and named firms.

Good to know

Three gaps. First, no investor compensation or deposit guarantee scheme document was found among CIMA's published documents during this run, so nothing is stated here about the existence or size of any such scheme in either direction; the protection facts reported are the professional indemnity insurance requirements CIMA publishes for licensees. Second, the Securities Investment Business (Conduct of Business) Regulations (2026 Revision) PDF could not be text extracted, so client money and client asset segregation rules are not quoted; the insurance requirement in section 4(1) of those Regulations is quoted from CIMA's own Securities FAQs page instead. Third, the register search requires an I am not a robot check that could not be completed, so the layout of a result row and any status wording shown next to a firm were not observed and are not described. All eight Internet Archive copies of prior versions failed to download (connection refused), so no version comparison was possible. Nine documents listed in the corpus (the sector fee pages, the industry, consumer and general notices pages, and the annual reports page) were not supplied as text to this reading; the fees page and the notices cited here were opened directly.

Key facts

KeyVerifying a licence

Search CIMA's register by entity name and sector

This settles whether a firm's claim to be Cayman regulated is real, in under a minute. CIMA's own public notice of 13 February 2025 points the public to this same page.

CIMA's search page covers entities that are currently licensed or registered by it. Type the full name or part of the name of the firm, choose the sector from the drop-down box or choose All, then click Submit.

In the text box, type the full name, or part of the name, of the entity you wish to find. Choose the appropriate sector from the drop-down box, or choose "All" to search for the entity in all sectors. Click "Submit" or hit the Enter/Return key on your keyboard.

Quoted in Search Here For Entities Which Are Currently Registered With CIMA, How To SearchRead the source

In addition to staying cautious, it’s important to verify the legitimacy of any financial institution you engage with. To ensure an entity is regulated or licensed by CIMA, please visit: https://www.cima.ky/search-entities-cima.

Quoted in Public Cautioned Against Crypto Scams and Financial FraudRead the source

Where in the document: Search Entities page, How To Search

public register
license verification
retail clients

KeyScope of authorisation

Registered persons are exempt from holding a securities licence

A firm can accurately say it is registered with CIMA and still hold no licence. The Schedule 4 basis limits who it may deal with, so a retail client should ask which category it relies on.

CIMA states that entities registered as Registered Persons are exempted from the requirement to obtain a licence for securities investment business, because they deal exclusively with the persons or institutions set out in Schedule 4 of the Act, and are instead registered by the Authority.

Please note that entities registered as Registered Persons are exempted from the requirement to obtain a licence to conduct securities investment business as they conduct business exclusively with persons or institutions as set out in Schedule 4 of the SIBA. however they are to be registered by the Authority.

Quoted in Securities Licensing Requirements, Licensing vs. RegistrationRead the source

In accordance with the Securities Investment Business Act (SIBA), persons engaging, ‘in the course of business’, in securities investment business, as defined in the SIBA, must be licenced unless exempted pursuant to Schedule 3 - Excluded Activities or Schedule 4 - Registered Persons. Registered Persons must be registered by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority.

Quoted in Securities Licensing Requirements, Licensing vs. RegistrationRead the source

Where in the document: Securities Licensing Requirements, Licensing vs. Registration

public register
retail clients
scope of authorisation

KeyHow to complain

Complaints reaching CIMA after one year are generally not considered

The clock starts when you should have noticed the problem, not when you finish with the firm. Since CIMA also requires proof you tried the firm first, letting that stage run long can consume the window.

CIMA will generally not consider a complaint received more than one year after the date the complainant became aware, or ought reasonably to have become aware, of the cause for complaint. Past that point it weighs the nature of the complaint and the reason for delay.

The Authority will generally not consider a complaint if it is received after one (1) year from the date on which the complainant became aware or ought reasonably to have become aware, that he/she had cause for complaint. Where a complaint is submitted after the one (1) year timeframe has elapsed, the Authority will consider the nature of the complaint and reason for the delay in assessing whether to investigate.

Quoted in Policy on Complaints Against Licensees, Registrants and Other Supervised Entities, How to File a ComplaintRead the source

Where in the document: Policy on Complaints Against Licensees, How to File a Complaint

retail clients
complaint deadline

KeyHow to complain

CIMA cannot arbitrate or order a firm to pay compensation

Filing with CIMA is a supervisory referral, not a route to getting money back, and you may not be told the outcome. Redress has to come from the firm, the courts, or police where the matter is criminal.

The policy states the Authority is not empowered to arbitrate in complaints about supervised entities, or to compel an entity to pay compensation to a customer in relation to an individual complaint. Findings generally cannot be disclosed to the complainant, as those communications are treated as confidential.

The Authority is not empowered to arbitrate in complaints about supervised entities, or to compel an entity to pay compensation to a customer in relation to an individual complaint.

Quoted in Policy on Complaints Against Licensees, Registrants and Other Supervised Entities, General ConsiderationsRead the source

If the Authority decides to raise a matter with a supervised entity, generally any findings or actions taken cannot be disclosed to the complainant, as communications between the Authority and all supervised entities are considered confidential.

Quoted in Policy on Complaints Against Licensees, Registrants and Other Supervised Entities, General ConsiderationsRead the source

Where in the document: Policy on Complaints Against Licensees, General Considerations

retail clients
compensation
complaint route

KeyWhat is protected

Licensees must carry 1,000,000 professional indemnity cover per claim

KYD 1,000,000

This insurance is the documented backstop behind a Cayman securities licence, and it responds to claims rather than paying out automatically. The aggregate figure is a ceiling shared across a firm's claims in a period.

Securities licensees must hold insurance covering professional indemnity, professional liability of senior officers and corporate secretaries, and business interruption. The professional indemnity limit should be at least CI$1,000,000 (US$1,219,512.20) for any one claim and CI$1,500,000 (US$1,829,268.29) in aggregate, with an insurer licensed for domestic business in the Cayman Islands.

All Securities Investment Businesses licensed under the Securities Investment Business Law (the “SIBL”) must have and maintain adequate insurance coverage. The licensee must have insurance to cover i) Professional Indemnity, ii) Professional Liability of Senior Officers and Corporate Secretaries, and iii) Business Interruption, as required by Section 4(1) of the Securities Investment Business (Conduct of Business) Regulations.

Clause Conduct of Business Regulations s.4(1) in Cayman Islands Securities FAQs, Licence - SecuritiesRead the source

Coverage must be held with an insurer licensed to carry on domestic business in the Cayman Islands. Securities Investment Business licensees must have insurance to cover claims of i) The licensee, ii) Current or former officers or employees iii) any third party agents, service providers or consultants working for the licensee. The Professional Indemnity insurance should have a limit of at least CI$1,000,000/US$1,219,512.20 for any one claim and CI$1,500,000/US$1,829,268.29 in aggregate.

Quoted in Cayman Islands Securities FAQs, Licence - SecuritiesRead the source

Where in the document: Securities FAQs, Licence - Securities, insurance policy

retail clients
protection scope
insurance

KeyJurisdiction and limits

Two classes of person fall within the Act's geographical scope

This is where a Cayman licence reaches and where it stops. A Cayman incorporated firm is in scope wherever it operates, while a foreign firm with no place of business in the Islands is a separate question in CIMA's own text.

Section 4(1) brings two classes within the Act's geographical scope, subject to the Schedule 4 exclusions: any Cayman Islands company or partnership wherever it conducts securities investment business, and any person with an established place of business in the Islands through which that business is conducted.

Section 4(1) of the Securities Investment Business Law (SIBL) identifies two classes of person as having sufficient nexus with the Cayman Islands to bring them within the geographical scope of the SIBL (subject to the Schedule 4 exclusions):

Clause SIBL s.4(1) in Cayman Islands Securities FAQs, General - SecuritiesRead the source

any Cayman Islands company or partnership, wherever it may be conducting securities investment business as defined by the Law; or

Quoted in Cayman Islands Securities FAQs, General - SecuritiesRead the source

Where in the document: Securities FAQs, General - Securities, geographical scope

scope of authorisation
jurisdiction

More facts, by topic

Thirty six sector categories, three of them for securities firmsThe register's drop-down carries 36 categories, and securities firms sit in three of them: Full, Restricted and Registered Person. For licensees, CIMA records the name, business address and permitted activities, so a licence can be matched to what the firm is actually allowed to do.2 facts

KeyPublic register

Register splits securities firms into three separate categories

The category next to a firm's name is the fact that matters, because the three securities entries do not carry the same permissions. Reading only the name leaves the check unfinished.

The register's sector drop-down lists 36 categories. Securities firms appear under three of them: Securities - Full, Securities - Registered Person and Securities - Restricted.

Search here for entities that are currently licensed or registered by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority.

Quoted in Search Here For Entities Which Are Currently Registered With CIMARead the source

Securities - Full Securities - Registered Person Securities - Restricted

Quoted in Search Here For Entities Which Are Currently Registered With CIMA, sector drop-downRead the source

Where in the document: Search Entities page, sector drop-down

public register
scope of authorisation

UsefulPublic register

Securities licensee list records permitted activities and address

A licence is only as wide as the activities on it, so a trader can ask a firm to point at its entry rather than accept a general claim of being licensed.

Once CIMA issues a certificate for a new securities licence, the Securities Supervision Division updates the website list to include the licensee's name, business address and details of permitted activities.

After the Authority has issued the certificate for the new SIBA licence, the SSD will then update the SIB list of licensees on the website to include the new licensee’s name, business address and details of permitted activities.

Quoted in Securities Licensing Requirements, Recording, Publication and NotificationRead the source

Where in the document: Securities Licensing Requirements, Recording, Publication and Notification

public register
scope of authorisation

Professional indemnity cover of at least 1,000,000 per claimCI$1,000,000 per claim and CI$1,500,000 in aggregate is the professional indemnity limit CIMA sets for securities licensees, held with an insurer licensed for domestic business in the Islands. It responds to claims rather than paying out automatically, and CIMA states it does not assist with recovery of funds.1 fact

UsefulWhat is protected

CIMA states it does not assist with recovery of funds

It rules out two things at once: CIMA is not a recovery service, and anyone contacting you in CIMA's name asking for a payment is not CIMA. The notice directs the public to law enforcement.

In a public notice dated 13 February 2025, CIMA states it does not provide assistance with recovery of losses, asset recovery, or any financial transactions, and that it does not collect fees, taxes or any other payments from the public.

Please be advised that the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (“CIMA”) does not provide assistance with the recovery of crypto scams, asset recovery, or any financial transactions. Additionally, CIMA does not collect fees, taxes, or any other payments from the public, nor do we facilitate the collection or transfer of crypto assets.

Quoted in Public Cautioned Against Crypto Scams and Financial FraudRead the source

Where in the document: General Public Notice, 13 February 2025

retail clients
protection scope
fraud notice

One year to complain, and CIMA cannot order compensationOne year from the date you became aware of the cause is the working deadline, and the firm has to be approached first with proof kept. CIMA acknowledges within five business days, states it is not empowered to arbitrate or compel compensation, and generally will not disclose its findings to you.1 fact

UsefulHow to complain

Raise it with the firm first, then expect five business days

5 working days

Keep the paper trail of your exchanges with the firm, because it is a precondition CIMA applies rather than a suggestion. Anonymous complaints are not accepted.

CIMA states the matter should first be raised with the entity, and that it will request proof of reasonable steps taken there before considering the complaint. Complaints must be in writing with the complainant's name and contact details. Receipt is acknowledged within five business days.

The Authority will request proof from the complainant that they have taken reasonable steps to resolve the complaint with the supervised entity before considering any complaint submitted to the Authority.

Quoted in Policy on Complaints Against Licensees, Registrants and Other Supervised Entities, General ConsiderationsRead the source

Once a complaint has been submitted, the Authority will acknowledge receipt within five (5) business days.

Quoted in Policy on Complaints Against Licensees, Registrants and Other Supervised Entities, Complaints Handling ProcessRead the source

Any person directly affected by the way in which CIMA or its licensees has carried out its functions may file a complaint. CIMA will not accept anonymous complaints.

Quoted in ComplaintsRead the source

Where in the document: Policy on Complaints Against Licensees, General Considerations and Complaints Handling Process

retail clients
complaint route

Registered persons hold no licence, by design of Schedule 4Six Schedule 4 categories may conduct securities investment business without a licence, and CIMA registers rather than licenses those firms. One category covers firms dealing exclusively with sophisticated or high net worth persons. A retail client should ask which category a registered firm relies on.1 fact

UsefulScope of authorisation

Six Schedule 4 categories may operate without a licence

These categories explain why a Cayman firm may hold no CIMA licence at all. Where the exemption rests on client type, a retail client should ask the firm directly which one applies.

Schedule 4 sets out six categories of person who may conduct securities investment business without a licence. One is a person carrying on that business exclusively for sophisticated or high net worth persons, with a registered office in the Islands supplied by a CIMA licensed provider.

Schedule 4 of the SIBL specifies persons who may conduct securities investment business without a licence. There are six categories of such person:

Quoted in Cayman Islands Securities FAQs, General - SecuritiesRead the source

A person carrying on securities investment business exclusively for sophisticated persons or high net worth persons, provided that the person carrying on the business has a registered office in the Islands that is provided by an entity that is licensed to provide such service by the Authority;

Quoted in Cayman Islands Securities FAQs, General - SecuritiesRead the source

Where in the document: Securities FAQs, General - Securities

retail clients
scope of authorisation

Broker dealers must hold 100,000 in base financial resourcesCI$100,000 is the base financial resource requirement for broker dealers, market makers and securities managers, and CI$15,000 for other licensees. A licence also lapses if the renewal fee is unpaid by 31 March, so authorised status can change mid year without enforcement action.2 facts

UsefulLicensing requirements

Broker dealers need 100,000 in base financial resources

KYD 100,000

It is the capital floor behind a Cayman securities licence, set per activity type, and it gives a trader a concrete measure of how thin a licensed firm is allowed to be.

Under the Securities Investment Business (Financial Requirements and Standards) Regulations, the base financial resource requirement is CI$100,000 for broker dealers, market makers and securities managers, and CI$15,000 for all other licensees.

Under the Securities Investment Business (Financial Requirements and Standards) Regulations, Securities Investment Business licensees are required to have base financial resource requirements. In the case of broker dealers, market makers and securities managers, the base financial resource requirement is CI$100,000 and in the case of all other licensees, the requirement is CI$15,000.

Quoted in Cayman Islands Securities FAQs, Licence - SecuritiesRead the source

Where in the document: Securities FAQs, Licence - Securities, minimum net worth

licensing requirements
capital

UsefulLicensing requirements

A licence lapses if the renewal fee is unpaid by 31 March

10%

A firm's status can change during the year through non payment alone, with no enforcement action. That is a reason to recheck the register after March rather than rely on a January check.

A licence whose prescribed renewal fee remains unpaid by 31 March lapses forthwith, and may be renewed for the full calendar year if, within one month, the former holder pays the renewal fee, the surcharges due and an administration fee of ten per cent. Late filing by a securities licensee costs fifty dollars a day.

A licence in respect of which the prescribed renewal fee remains unpaid by the 31st March in any year shall lapse forthwith but if, within a period of one month, the person who held the licence prior to its lapse pays (a) the prescribed renewal fee;(b) the surcharges due under subsection (2); and (c) an administration fee of ten per cent of the prescribed renewal fee, the licence may be renewed for the period from the 1st January to the 31st December, inclusive, of the year in question.

Quoted in Cayman Islands Monetary Authority Fee Schedule, p.10Read the source

Any licensee who fails to comply with subsection (2) within the prescribed period or any extension to such granted by the Authority for good cause shown, is liable to a late filin fee of fifty dollars for each day or part thereof that compliance remains outstanding.

Quoted in Cayman Islands Monetary Authority Fee Schedule, p.11Read the source

Where in the document: Fee Schedule, pages 6, 7 and 10, lapse and renewal note

public register
licence fee
licensing requirements

Two classes of person fall inside the Act's geographical scopeAny Cayman company or partnership is in scope wherever it operates, as is any person with an established place of business in the Islands. Credit unions and building societies sit outside CIMA licensing entirely while remaining under its oversight.1 fact

ContextJurisdiction and limits

Credit unions and building societies are not licensed by CIMA

Oversight and licensing are not the same thing here. A firm in these sectors can be supervised by CIMA while holding no CIMA licence, so the register is not where its authorisation is recorded.

CIMA states that credit unions are not required to be licensed by it and must instead register with the Registrar of Cooperative Societies, and that there are no legal requirements for building societies to be licensed by CIMA. Both remain subject to CIMA oversight under their respective Acts.

Although credit unions are not required to be licensed by CIMA, they have to be registered with the Registrar of Cooperative Societies (General Registry Department of the Cayman Islands Government) and they are subject to regulatory oversight in accordance with Section 40 of the Cooperative Societies Act.

Quoted in Cooperative and Building Societies Licensing Requirements, Credit UnionsRead the source

There are no legal requirements for building societies to be licensed by CIMA.

Quoted in Cooperative and Building Societies Licensing Requirements, Building SocietiesRead the source

Where in the document: Cooperative and Building Societies Licensing Requirements

public register
scope of authorisation
jurisdiction

A securities licence costs up to 10,000 a year to keepCI$10,000 on first grant plus CI$10,000 a year is the top of the nine securities licence categories, with the lowest at CI$3,000. Registered persons pay CI$6,000 to register and CI$6,000 a year. All annual fees fall due by 15 January.3 facts

UsefulCost to get licensed

Securities licence annual fees run from 3,000 to 10,000

KYD 10,000

It sets the scale of the financial commitment behind a Cayman securities licence. Unpaid annual fees carry a penalty of one twelfth of the fee for each month outstanding.

The Fee Schedule updated 01 January 2026 lists nine securities investment business licence categories on page 10. The highest carries a CI$1,000 (US$1,219.51) application fee, CI$10,000 (US$12,195.12) payable on first grant and a CI$10,000 annual renewal fee. The lowest carries CI$500, CI$3,000 and CI$3,000.

Application fee $1,000.00 $1,219.51 Fee payable on first grant $10,000.00 $12,195.12 Annual renewal fee $10,000.00 $12,195.12 One twelfth of the renewal fee due for each month the payment remains outstanding.

Quoted in Cayman Islands Monetary Authority Fee Schedule, p.10Read the source

Application fee $500.00 $609.76 Fee payable on first grant $3,000.00 $3,658.54 Annual renewal fee $3,000.00 $3,658.54 One twelfth of the renewal fee due for each month the payment remains outstanding.

Quoted in Cayman Islands Monetary Authority Fee Schedule, p.10Read the source

Where in the document: Fee Schedule, page 10, Securities Investment Business

licence fee
cost to obtain

UsefulCost to get licensed

Securities registered persons pay 6,000 to register and 6,000 yearly

KYD 6,000

Registration under Schedule 4 costs less than most licence categories and involves an annual declaration rather than a licence application, which is part of why the two statuses are not interchangeable.

The Fee Schedule sets a registration fee of CI$6,000 (US$7,317.07) and an annual fee of CI$6,000 for Securities Registered Persons, on page 11. CIMA's fees page states all annual fees are payable by 15 January each year, converting at US$1.00 = CI$0.82.

Registration fee $6,000.00 $7,317.07 Annual fee $6,000.00 $7,317.07 One twelfth of the renewal fee due for each month the payment remains outstanding.

Quoted in Cayman Islands Monetary Authority Fee Schedule, p.11Read the source

All annual fees are payable by 15 January each year.

Quoted in Cayman Islands Monetary Authority Regulated Sectors FeesRead the source

Note: All fees quoted are in Cayman Islands dollars (CI$). The conversion rate to be used for payment in United States dollars (US$) is 0.82 (US$1.00 = CI$ 0.82).

Quoted in Cayman Islands Monetary Authority Regulated Sectors FeesRead the source

Where in the document: Fee Schedule, page 11, Securities Registered Persons

public register
licence fee
cost to obtain

UsefulCost to get licensed

A written confirmation of licensed status costs 1,000

KYD 1,000

A formal written confirmation of both status and filing standing exists at a set price, so a client dealing with a large sum can ask a firm to obtain one instead of relying on a screenshot.

The Fee Schedule's administrative fees, on page 15, include a non refundable fee of CI$1,000 (US$1,219.51) for a letter confirming the registration or licensed status of a CIMA regulated entity and the status of its regulatory filings.

Letter confirming registration or licensed status of CIMA regulated entity and status of regulatory filings, fee for which is non-refundable $1,000.00 $1,219.51

Quoted in Cayman Islands Monetary Authority Fee Schedule, p.15Read the source

Where in the document: Fee Schedule, page 15, CIMA Administrative Fees

license verification
cost to obtain

CIMA sits in IOSCO and eight other international bodiesNine bodies are listed, including IOSCO and the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force. That participation is the route by which CIMA exchanges information with regulators abroad, which matters when a firm's clients and assets are in different countries.1 fact

ContextMembership and standing

CIMA is represented in IOSCO and eight other international bodies

IOSCO participation is the channel through which a securities regulator exchanges information with counterparts abroad, which matters when a firm's clients, assets and management sit in different countries.

CIMA lists nine international bodies in which it is represented, including the International Organization of Securities Commissions, the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force, the International Association of Insurance Supervisors and the Group of International Finance Centre Supervisors.

In its efforts to fulfill its regulatory and supervisory mandate, CIMA is represented in various international bodies: Caribbean Financial Action Task Force Group of International Finance Centre Supervisors Working Group on Cross Border Banking Caribbean Group of Banking Supervisors Association of Supervisors of Banks of the Americas Group of International Insurance Centre Supervisors International Association of Insurance Supervisors Offshore Group of Collective Investment Scheme Supervisors International Organization of Securities Commissions

Quoted, Participation in International BodiesRead the source

Where in the document: International Cooperation page, Participation in International Bodies

iosco
membership standing
international cooperation

High net worth means 800,000 net worth or 4 million in assetsThe 800,000 threshold decides who a Schedule 4 firm may serve without a licence. Separately, Schedule 1 counts rights under contracts for differences as securities, so CFD and derivatives activity falls inside the Act's four regulated activities.2 facts

UsefulKey definitions

High net worth person means 800,000 net worth or 4 million assets

KYD 800,000

This threshold decides who a Schedule 4 firm may serve without a licence. A trader below it who is being onboarded by such a firm sits outside the client group the exemption describes.

Section 2 of the Securities Investment Business Law defines a high net worth person as an individual whose net worth is at least $800,000, or any person with total assets of not less than $4,000,000.

Section 2 of the Securities Investment Business Law (SIBL) defines "high net worth person" as an individual whose net worth is at least $800,000 or any person that has total assets of not less than $4,000,000.

Clause SIBL s.2 in Cayman Islands Securities FAQs, General - SecuritiesRead the source

Where in the document: Securities FAQs, General - Securities

retail clients
scope of authorisation
definitions

UsefulKey definitions

Contracts for differences count as securities under Schedule 1

CFD and derivatives trading falls inside the definition of securities here, so a firm offering it from the Cayman Islands needs either a licence or a Schedule 4 basis for operating without one.

Schedule 1 defines securities to include options, futures and rights under contracts for differences, with cash settled derivatives given as examples. Schedule 2 sets four regulated activities: dealing, arranging, managing and advising on securities.

7.Rights under contracts for differences (e.g. cash-settled derivatives such as interest rate and stock index futures, forward rate agreements and swaps)

Clause SIBL Schedule 1 in Cayman Islands Securities FAQs, General - SecuritiesRead the source

1. Dealing in securities: Buying, selling, subscribing for or underwriting securities as agent or principal, including market maker activity.

Clause SIBL Schedule 2 in Cayman Islands Securities FAQs, General - SecuritiesRead the source

Where in the document: Securities FAQs, General - Securities

scope of authorisation
definitions
derivatives

CIMA names firms that claim Cayman regulation without holding itPublic notices identify entities that are not authorised, including one stating Gate.io and Gate Global Corp have never been registered or licensed.3 facts

UsefulOther useful facts

CIMA names entities that claim Cayman regulation without it

A claim of Cayman regulation is sometimes made by firms that hold nothing, and CIMA answers those claims in writing. Searching the notices pages alongside the register catches cases the register alone cannot show.

CIMA publishes public notices identifying entities it has not authorised. Its notice of 11 April 2025 states that Gate.io and Gate Global Corp are not, and have never been, registered, licensed, regulated, or otherwise authorised by the Authority for virtual asset service provider business.

The Authority wishes to clarify that Gate.io and Gate Global Corp are not, and have never been, registered, licensed, regulated, or otherwise authorised by the Authority to conduct virtual asset service provider (VASP) business in or from within the Cayman Islands.

Quoted in Gate.io and Gate Global Corp Not Registered With CIMARead the source

CIMA has also become aware of entities that have falsely given their contact addresses as being in the Cayman Islands. These entities are included on the list of fraudulent websites and are not licensed or registered to carry on activities regulated by CIMA.

Quoted in Enforcement, Fraudulent WebsitesRead the source

Where in the document: General Public Notice, 11 April 2025, and Enforcement page, Fraudulent Websites

public register
license verification
fraud notice

ContextOther useful facts

Cancellations and revocations appear as published Decision Notices

The archive lets a trader check whether a name they were given has already lost its status. Entries are titled by firm, such as Banking Licence Revoked for Trade and Commerce Bank.

CIMA publishes Decision Notices naming entities and individuals whose licence or registration it has cancelled or revoked, with dates and downloadable notices. Its listed enforcement options include suspension and revocation of a licence, appointing a person to assume control of a licensee's affairs, and imposing administrative fines.

Banking Licence Revoked for Trade and Commerce Bank

Quoted in Decision NoticesRead the source

Enforcement options available to CIMA include: Suspension of the licence of a licensee and preservation of its records Revocation of the licence of a licensee

Quoted in EnforcementRead the source

Where in the document: Decision Notices page and Enforcement page

public register
enforcement

ContextOther useful facts

CIMA was established on 1 January 1997 with four functions

It frames what a Cayman licence is issued by: a single authority that is both the currency issuer and the financial services supervisor, rather than a securities specific commission.

CIMA states it was established on 1 January 1997 and is the primary regulator responsible for the regulation and supervision of financial services entities operating in and from the Cayman Islands, with four principal functions: monetary, regulatory, cooperative and advisory.

Established on 1 January 1997, the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA) is the primary regulator responsible for the regulation and supervision of financial services entities operating in and from the Cayman Islands.

QuotedRead the source

Our responsibilities fall under four principal functions:

Quoted, What We DoRead the source

Where in the document: About Us page

scope of authorisation
regulator profile

28 documents examined

Fee scheduleCayman Islands Monetary Authority Fee ScheduleUpdated 01 January 2026 · fetched Aug 25, 2026
RulebookActs and Regulationsfetched Aug 25, 2026
Annual reportAnnual Reportfetched Aug 25, 2026
Official documentFeesfetched Aug 25, 2026
Licensing requirementsLicensing Requirementsfetched Aug 25, 2026
Complaints procedureComplaintsfetched Aug 25, 2026

Show 22 more documents

GuidanceConsultationfetched Aug 25, 2026
Official documentFeesfetched Aug 25, 2026
Licensing requirementsCooperative and Building Societies Licensing Requirementsfetched Aug 25, 2026
Official documentFeesfetched Aug 25, 2026
Licensing requirementsLicensing Requirementsfetched Aug 25, 2026
Enforcement policyDecision Noticesfetched Aug 25, 2026
Enforcement policyEnforcementfetched Aug 25, 2026
Fee scheduleCayman Islands Monetary Authority Regulated Sectors Feesfetched Aug 25, 2026
Enforcement policyFinancial Sanctions Noticesfetched Aug 25, 2026
Official documentGeneral Consumerfetched Aug 25, 2026
Official documentGeneral Industry Noticesfetched Aug 25, 2026
Official documentGeneral Noticesfetched Aug 25, 2026
Consumer noticeGeneral Public Noticesfetched Aug 25, 2026
GuidanceGuidancefetched Aug 25, 2026
HandbookRegulatory Handbookfetched Aug 25, 2026
Official documentFeesfetched Aug 25, 2026
Public registerSearch Here For Entities Which Are Currently Registered With CIMAfetched Aug 25, 2026
Complaints procedurePolicy on Complaints Against Licensees, Registrants and Other Supervised Entitiesfetched Aug 25, 2026
Licensing requirementsSecurities Licensing Requirementsfetched Aug 25, 2026
GuidanceCayman Islands Securities FAQsfetched Aug 25, 2026
Consumer noticePublic Cautioned Against Crypto Scams and Financial Fraud13 February 2025 · fetched Aug 25, 2026
Consumer noticeGate.io and Gate Global Corp Not Registered With CIMA11 April 2025 · fetched Aug 25, 2026

Licensed brokers

Brokers licensed by CIMA

17 brokers on the Wikilix record hold a licence from CIMA; the 10 highest-scored are below, and the finder searches them all.

17 brokers

About this information

The details on this page about The Cayman Islands Monetary Authority were compiled from the regulator’s own official documents, its website and other public sources, and are presented as neutral, factual guidance.

If you believe something here is inaccurate, or you spot a critical problem, please let us know via Contact us.

About CIMA

About this information

If you believe something here is inaccurate, or you spot a critical problem, please let us know via Contact us.

CIMAThe Cayman Islands Monetary Authority

Core Functions

Mission & Vision

Core Values

Primary Functions

On the record

What is protected

How to verify a licence

How to complain

8 instruments regulated

Requirements, as CIMA publishes them

Requirements for Obtaining a License under the Israel Securities Authority (ISA)

Key Requirements for Licensing

Application Process

Ongoing Obligations for License Holders

Jurisdiction and scope

Using this regulator

Good to know

Key facts

Search CIMA's register by entity name and sector

Registered persons are exempt from holding a securities licence

Complaints reaching CIMA after one year are generally not considered

CIMA cannot arbitrate or order a firm to pay compensation

Licensees must carry 1,000,000 professional indemnity cover per claim

Two classes of person fall within the Act's geographical scope

More facts, by topic

Register splits securities firms into three separate categories

Securities licensee list records permitted activities and address

CIMA states it does not assist with recovery of funds

Raise it with the firm first, then expect five business days

Six Schedule 4 categories may operate without a licence

Broker dealers need 100,000 in base financial resources

A licence lapses if the renewal fee is unpaid by 31 March

Credit unions and building societies are not licensed by CIMA

Securities licence annual fees run from 3,000 to 10,000

Securities registered persons pay 6,000 to register and 6,000 yearly

A written confirmation of licensed status costs 1,000

CIMA is represented in IOSCO and eight other international bodies

High net worth person means 800,000 net worth or 4 million assets

Contracts for differences count as securities under Schedule 1

CIMA names entities that claim Cayman regulation without it

Cancellations and revocations appear as published Decision Notices

CIMA was established on 1 January 1997 with four functions

28 documents examined

Butterfield

Bank of Scotland

ANZ

BTGPactual

Vantage

LION

EBC

BitMart

Capital Markets Elite Group

FXCG

About this information

CIMAThe Cayman Islands Monetary Authority

Core Functions

Mission & Vision

Core Values

Primary Functions

On the record

What is protected

How to verify a licence

How to complain

8 instruments regulated

Requirements, as CIMA publishes them

Requirements for Obtaining a License under the Israel Securities Authority (ISA)

Key Requirements for Licensing

Application Process

Ongoing Obligations for License Holders

Jurisdiction and scope

Using this regulator

Good to know

Key facts

Search CIMA's register by entity name and sector

Registered persons are exempt from holding a securities licence

Complaints reaching CIMA after one year are generally not considered

CIMA cannot arbitrate or order a firm to pay compensation

Licensees must carry 1,000,000 professional indemnity cover per claim

Two classes of person fall within the Act's geographical scope