Legal services:

Comprehensive legal solutions for contracts, disputes, and compliance. Our expert team ensures legal protection and strategic guidance for your business.

AML consulting:

Specialised AML consulting to develop and maintain robust anti-money laundering policies. We assess risks, offer ongoing support and provide tailored AML services.

Obtaining a crypto license:

We offer licensing and ongoing support for your crypto-business. We also offer licences in the most popular jurisdictions.

Registration of legal entities:

Efficient legal entity registration support. We manage documentation and interaction with the authorities, ensuring a seamless process for establishing your business.

Opening bank accounts:

We facilitate the opening of bank accounts through our extensive network of partners (European banks). Hassle-free process, tailored to your business needs.

COREDO TEAM

Nikita Veremeev
Nikita Veremeev
CEO
Pavel Kos
Pavel Kos
Head of the legal department
Grigorii Lutcenko
Grigorii Lutcenko
Head of AML department
Annet Abdurzakova
Annet Abdurzakova
Head of the Customer Success Department
Basang Ungunov
Basang Ungunov
Lawyer at Legal Department
Egor Pykalev
Egor Pykalev
AML consultant
Dmitry Vyalkov
Dmitry Vyalkov
Lawyer
Yulia Zhidikhanova
Yulia Zhidikhanova
Customer Success Associate
Pavel Batsulin
Pavel Batsulin
AML consultant
Diana Alchaeva
Diana Alchaeva
Customer Success Associate
Roza Muradova
Roza Muradova
AML consultant
Johann Schneider
Johann Schneider
Lawyer
Daniil Saprykin
Daniil Saprykin
Customer Success Associate

Our clients

COREDO’s clients are manufacturers, traders and financial companies, as well as wealthy clients from European and CIS countries.

Effective communication and fast project realisation guarantee satisfaction of our customers.

Exactly
Unitpay
Grispay
Newreality
Chicrypto
Xchanger
CONVERTIQ
Crypto Engine
Pion
In a world where global investment flows exceed 100 trillion dollars annually and competition for capital becomes increasingly fierce, choosing the right jurisdiction and fund structure determines not only profitability but also business sustainability. According to the European Fund and Asset Management Association, over the past five years, the share of alternative investment funds in the EU has grown by more than 30%, with Czech Republic gaining a special place due to the flexibility and transparency of its legal instruments.
ZISIF §15 is a special type of alternative investment fund in the Czech Republic, regulated by the Czech Act on Investment Companies and Investment Funds (Zákon o investičních společnostech a investičních fondech, 240/2013 Sb.). Unlike classical structures, ZISIF §15 provides investors and managers with maximum freedom in choosing an investment strategy, corporate structure, and types of assets. The key feature is the ability to work with both qualified and a limited number of non-qualified investors (up to 20), which makes the fund attractive for family and corporate capital as well as for collective investment in the Czech Republic.
COREDO practice confirms: registering a fund in the Czech Republic using the ZISIF §15 model allows for the implementation of investment projects with minimal capital requirements, flexible corporate management structuring (via s.r.o. or a joint-stock company), and effective protection of the interests of beneficiaries and founders. It is important to note that the activities of such funds are supervised by the Czech National Bank (ČNB), which ensures a high level of trust from international investors.

Advantages and Limitations of ZISIF §15 for International Business

Illustration for the section "Advantages and Limitations of ZISIF §15 for International Business" in the article "Alternative Investment Fund ZISIF §15 in the Czech Republic"

Why has ZISIF §15 become the choice for many international companies and family offices? In practice, the COREDO team has implemented dozens of projects where the key advantages have been:

  • Flexibility in choosing an investment strategy: allowed to invest in a wide range of assets, including securities, real estate, startups, cryptocurrencies, and even unconventional instruments.
  • Minimal regulatory barriers: no minimum capital requirements, no mandatory license for a management company (subject to the limit on the number of investors and assets up to 100,000,000 EUR).
  • Scalability: the fund structure allows for the attraction of new investors (up to 20 non-qualified or unlimited number of qualified), as well as integration into international holding structures.
  • Simplicity of corporate management: founders can use s.r.o. or a joint-stock company, retaining control over the fund and profit distribution.
  • Reduced administrative burden: simplified reporting and compliance requirements compared to traditional collective investment funds.
On the other hand, there are limitations that are important to consider when strategic planning:

  • Investment limit: the total volume of assets should not exceed 100,000,000 EUR.
  • Minimum investment threshold for qualified investors: 125,000 EUR.
  • Limitations on the number of non-qualified investors: no more than 20.
  • No public offer: the fund cannot offer its shares or units to an unlimited number of people.
A COREDO implemented case for a family office demonstrated: with the proper structuring of a ZISIF §15 fund, capital can be managed effectively, tax risks minimized, and asset continuity between generations ensured.

Comparison of ZISIF §15 and Other Investment Funds (FKI, SICAV, EU and Asia Structures)

Choosing a fund structure is a strategic decision that affects the tax burden, level of compliance, and scalability opportunities. For clarity, I will provide a comparative table:

Criterion ZISIF §15 (Czech Republic) FKI (Czech Republic) SICAV (EU) Analogues in Asia
Minimum capital None (or minimal) 1,250,000 EUR 1,250,000 EUR From 100,000 USD
Type of investors Qualified/up to 20 non-qualified Only qualified Qualified/public Depends on jurisdiction
Regulator ČNB ČNB EU regulators Asian country regulators
AML/compliance Simplified requirements Strict requirements Strict requirements Varies
Registration timeline 2-4 months 3-6 months 3-6 months From 1 month
Creation cost From 109,000 CZK Higher Higher Relatively lower
Scalability opportunities Medium High High Medium/high
The EU market traditionally imposes high licensing requirements for investment funds, especially in the FKI and SICAV segments. However, ZISIF §15 stands out for its quick launch potential, low initial costs, and flexible corporate structure. A solution developed by COREDO for an international startup fund allowed the client to complete registration and begin attracting investments in 3 months, which would have been impossible with the classic FKI structure.

Registration of ZISIF §15 Fund in the Czech Republic

Illustration for the section "Registration of ZISIF §15 Fund in the Czech Republic" in the article "Alternative Investment Fund ZISIF §15 in the Czech Republic"

Legal and Organizational Requirements for Fund Registration

Illustration for the section "Legal and Organizational Requirements for Fund Registration" in the article "Alternative Investment Fund ZISIF §15 in the Czech Republic"

Registering a fund in the Czech Republic using the ZISIF §15 model begins with choosing the optimal corporate structure. In practice, a limited liability company (s.r.o.) or joint-stock company is most commonly used. This approach ensures management flexibility, transparency of beneficial ownership, and limitation of founder liability.

Key stages:

  • Preparation of founding documents, including the charter, internal regulations, andagreements between founders.
  • Determination of ownership structure and share distribution, considering the requirements for beneficial ownership and fiduciary management.
  • Appointment of a director and, if necessary, an asset management company in the Czech Republic.
  • Opening of a corporate account in a Czech or European bank.
A project implemented by the COREDO team for a holding with Asian and European investors showed: proper structuring at the registration stage significantly reduces the risks of further disputes among participants and simplifies passing compliance procedures.

Documents for ZISIF §15 Fund Registration and Interaction with the Czech National Bank

Illustration for the section "Documents for ZISIF §15 Fund Registration and Interaction with the Czech National Bank" in the article "Alternative Investment Fund ZISIF §15 in the Czech Republic"

To submit an application to the Czech National Bank (ČNB), a comprehensive set of documents is required, including:

  • Founding documents (charter, founding agreement).
  • A detailed business plan of the investment fund with a description of the investment strategy, target assets, and profitability scenarios for PRIIPs.
  • List of founders and beneficiaries with confirmation of sources of funds and ownership structure.
  • KID (Key Information Document): a key information document mandatory for PRIIPs Regulation compliance.
  • Documents confirming the qualifications of the management company or director.
  • Protocol on the issuance of fund shares (in the case of a joint-stock structure) or share distribution (for s.r.o.).
The COREDO team accompanies clients at all stages of interaction with ČNB, including document preparation, negotiations, and explanation of specific aspects of the public offer of investment funds.

Timeline and Cost of Registration, Process Stages

Illustration for the section "Timeline and Cost of Registration, Process Stages" in the article "Alternative Investment Fund ZISIF §15 in the Czech Republic"

The registration period for a ZISIF §15 fund typically ranges from 2 to 4 months, provided that documents are prepared correctly and there is proactive interaction with the regulator. The cost of full legal support depends on the complexity of the structure, number of founders, and specifics of the investment strategy, but as COREDO’s experience shows, initial costs are notably lower compared to the establishment of classical collective investment funds.

Process stages:

  • Preparation and agreement on the corporate structure (1-2 weeks).
  • Collection and processing of documents, preparation of the business plan and KID (2-4 weeks).
  • Submission of the application and documents to ČNB, interaction with the regulator (4-8 weeks).
  • Obtaining the permit and registration documents, fund launch.
In one of COREDO’s recent cases for a European technology holding, the entire process—from concept to obtaining ČNB permission—took 11 weeks, which became a critical competitive advantage for the client.
Thus, registering a ZISIF §15 investment fund in the Czech Republic requires a comprehensive approach to legal and organizational preparation, allowing for an efficient transition to the formation and implementation of the fund’s investment strategy.

Investment Strategy of ZISIF §15

Investment Strategy Requirements and Permitted Assets

ZISIF §15 provides broad opportunities for crafting an individual investment strategy. The law allows the inclusion in the portfolio of:

  • Traditional financial instruments (stocks, bonds, derivatives).
  • Real estate and infrastructure projects.
  • Startups, venture investments, and innovative companies.
  • Cryptocurrencies and digital assets (subject to AML compliance).
  • Family and corporate capital, which is particularly relevant for inheritance structuring and family asset management.
In one of COREDO’s projects for a family capital fund in the Czech Republic, the investment strategy combined investments in Czech real estate, EU startups, and digital assets, allowing risk diversification and stable ROI.

Organization of Fund Management and Collective Investments

Asset management in the EU requires not only professional expertise but also strict adherence to fiduciary management standards. In a ZISIF §15 structure, it is possible to appoint an asset management company in the Czech Republic or for the fund director to manage independently. It is essential to ensure process transparency, regular reporting to investors, and compliance with all collective investment requirements in the Czech Republic.

The COREDO team recommends integrating modern automation tools, platforms for portfolio monitoring, digital solutions for AML reporting, and risk management. This approach has proven effective in a case with an international fund where digitization reduced administrative expenses by 30% and increased transparency for investors.

Performance Metrics and ROI: How to Evaluate Fund Results

Evaluating the effectiveness of a fund is built on several key metrics:

  • ROI (Return on Investment), a key indicator for investors reflecting investment profitability.
  • Profitability scenarios for PRIIPs: modeling various portfolio development scenarios and their impact on final profitability.
  • Comparing profitability with similar funds in the EU and Asia, allowing investors to make informed decisions about capital diversification.
In COREDO practice, both traditional financial metrics and modern risk analysis tools are used, enabling clients to receive an objective view of the fund’s effectiveness.

Compliance and AML for ZISIF §15

AML and Compliance Procedures: Identification, Screening, Documentation

Adherence to anti-money laundering legislation (AML) and compliance is an integral part of managing any investment fund in the Czech Republic. For ZISIF §15, simplified but mandatory procedures apply:

  • Identification and screening of investors, including verification of sources of funds and beneficial ownership.
  • Maintaining AML reports for the fund, documentation storage, and regular data updates.
  • Preparation and updating of KID (Key Information Document) in accordance with PRIIPs Regulation requirements.
  • Implementation of internal policies for income legalization and prevention of terrorism financing.
COREDO solutions in AML consulting enable automation of a significant portion of procedures, minimizing the human factor and reducing the risk of regulatory sanctions.

Reporting, Audit, and Interaction with the Regulator

ZISIF §15 is obliged to maintain regular reporting to the Czech National Bank, including:

  • Financial reporting according to established standards.
  • Reports on asset movements and investment activities.
  • Audit opinions (upon reaching certain asset thresholds).
  • Prompt information to the regulator regarding significant changes in the fund structure or investor composition.
COREDO’s practice shows: timely and correct reporting significantly reduces the likelihood of inspections and facilitates fund scaling.

Compliance with PRIIPs Regulation and OtherEuropean Requirements

To enter the international market and attract investors from the EU, the fund must comply with the requirements of PRIIPs Regulation, including the preparation of KID, disclosure of all risks and profitability scenarios, and ensuring transparency of the investment strategy.

COREDO supports clients at all stages – from initial documentation preparation to fund integration into international tax structures, which is critically important for long-term success.

Moving to the next aspects – exit strategies and ZISIF §15 integration, allows for comprehensive fund support throughout all stages of its activity.

Exit Strategies and Integration of ZISIF §15

Exit Strategies for Investors and Founders

An investor’s exit from a ZISIF §15 fund can be realized through the sale of a share, buyout of shares by the fund, or transfer of rights to third parties. It is important to pre-determine the mechanisms for share valuation, exit timelines and conditions, as well as tax implications for the investor and the fund.

The COREDO team recommends including clear exit strategy provisions in corporate documentation, which helps avoid conflicts and ensure predictability for all participants.

Scaling the Fund: Attracting New Investors and Expanding Geography

ZISIF §15 offers opportunities for scaling by attracting new qualified investors and expanding the geographical scope of activities. However, it is important to consider limitations on the number of non-qualified investors and asset limits.

In practice, COREDO has implemented scenarios where a fund, upon reaching the asset limit, transformed into a more complex structure (e.g., FKI) while maintaining management and asset continuity.

Integration of the Fund into International Holding and Tax Structures

ZISIF §15 can be integrated into international holding structures to optimize taxation, protect assets, and increase investment attractiveness. It is important to consider the features of international tax planning, requirements for beneficial ownership, and controlled foreign company (CFC) rules in the investors’ countries of residence.

COREDO assists clients with all stages of integration, developing individual scenarios considering the specifics of the EU and Asia, as well as local regulatory requirements.

Conclusions and Recommendations for Business

  • Practical Steps for Registration: clear planning, document preparation, and professional support at all stages are the key to successfully launching a fund.
  • Legal Support for Investment Funds: COREDO’s experience shows that comprehensive support minimizes risks and accelerates interaction processes with regulators.
  • Risk Minimization: implementation of modern compliance and AML solutions, reporting automation, and transparent corporate structure.
  • Reliable AML Compliance: regular investor screening, documentation updates, and integration of digital tools.
  • Comprehensive business support: from jurisdiction selection to scaling and investor exit.
  • Saving Time and Resources: process optimization, reduced administrative burden, and automation of fund management.
  • Best Practices in Collective Investment Management: transparency, regular reporting, and flexible investment strategy.
  • Innovative Risk Management Approaches: asset diversification, digital solutions, and integration into international structures.
If you are looking for a strategic partner for creating and managing an alternative investment fund in the Czech Republic, COREDO’s experience and expertise in international consulting can help achieve even the most ambitious goals—from registering a ZISIF §15 fund to integrating into global holding structures.

91% of clients choose a forex broker with a license, and 7 out of 10 bank accounts for brokers are opened only when a Forex trading license is available. In an era of tightened regulation and global competition, a forex broker’s license has long ceased to be a mere formality and has become a key factor for trust, access to international payments, and investor protection. Today, lacking a license is not just a restriction on working with banks and payment systems but also a reputational risk that can cost a business.

Ask yourself: are you willing to risk clients’ trust and investments to save on licensing? Or strategically build your business on a solid foundation that meets international Forex regulatory standards?

My years of experience show that a **wise choice of jurisdiction** and **obtaining a forex broker license** are not just legal formalities but strategic assets that determine a company’s value, stability, and scaling potential. In this article, I will analyze in detail how to choose a country for registering a forex broker, what licenses exist, how requirements differ across jurisdictions, and how the COREDO team helps clients build transparent, sustainable, and profitable forex businesses. I recommend reading to the end, as you will receive not only answers to key questions but also practical tools for making well-informed decisions.

Jurisdictions for Forex Broker License

Illustration for the section "Jurisdictions for Forex Broker License" in the article "Forex Trading License - Analyzing Popular Jurisdictions"
Choosing a jurisdiction for a forex business is always a **balance between the cost of a forex broker license**, **registration speed**, **capital requirements**, and the level of regulation. Registering a forex broker in the right country opens doors to international markets, reduces operational and tax costs, and minimizes strategic and reputational risks.

Therefore, a wise choice of registration country becomes a key step in developing a successful forex business and requires a thorough assessment of all factors.

How to Choose a Jurisdiction for a Forex License

COREDO’s experience shows that the optimal choice of jurisdiction is based on a comprehensive assessment of the following factors:

  • Forex License Requirements: Include **minimum capital requirements**, the presence of a **local office**, corporate structure, and **internal control** requirements. For instance, for a Forex license in Estonia, the minimum capital starts at 50,000 EUR, whereas in the UK: from 730,000 GBP.
  • Requirements for Forex Companies’ Executives: Regulators (EFSA, CySEC, FCA, ASIC) impose strict requirements on experience, qualifications, no criminal record, and the reputation of directors. At COREDO, we prepare a dossier for each executive, including confirmation of professional competence and certification of capital market specialists.
  • Compliance for Forex Brokers: Involves developing a business plan for the forex license, KYC/AML procedures, internal policies, and automating due diligence processes. COREDO’s practice confirms that thorough preparation of the compliance package speeds up the process of obtaining a Forex license and reduces the likelihood of rejection.
  • Internal Control and Audit: International standards require the implementation of internal control systems, regular audits, and transparent financial reporting. This is not only a regulatory requirement but also a risk management tool that builds client trust.
  • Financial Stability: Regulators analyze not only capital but also funding sources, income and expense structures, and the availability of reserves to cover operational and market risks.

Offshore or Onshore Forex License?

The market offers both offshore and onshore licenses for forex brokers. The solution developed at COREDO is always based on the analysis of the client’s objectives, target markets, and long-term goals.

Offshore Licenses (e.g., British Virgin Islands, Mauritius, Panama):

  • Benefits: low cost of the forex broker license, minimal capital requirements, quick registration times.
  • Risks: limited access to banking services, increased attention to AML, reputational risks, difficulties in attracting institutional clients, and entering major markets.
Onshore Licenses (Estonia, Cyprus, UK, Australia):

  • Advantages: high client and bank trust levels, ability to work with European and Asian investors, client interest protection, compliance with international Forex regulatory standards.
  • Limitations: higher costs for registration and maintenance, strict corporate governance, and internal control requirements.

Multi-jurisdictional Licensing is becoming an increasingly popular tool for risk diversification and business scaling. COREDO’s team has implemented projects for simultaneous registration of forex brokers in the EU and Asia, allowing clients to optimize ROI and increase resilience to regulatory changes.

Forex Broker License: Popular Countries

Illustration for the section "Forex Broker License: Popular Countries" in the article "Forex Trading License - Analyzing Popular Jurisdictions"
In COREDO’s practice, the most in-demand Forex licenses are in Estonia, Cyprus, the UK, Australia, the British Virgin Islands, as well as in Panama and Mauritius. Each of these options has its features, advantages, and limitations.

Forex License in Estonia – Requirements

Estonia: a leader in speed and transparency for obtaining a Forex trading license. The regulator EFSA imposes clear requirements:

  • Minimum Capital: from 50,000 EUR for an STP broker and up to 730,000 EUR for a Market Maker.
  • Documents: business plan, proof of capital sources, corporate structure, information about executives, AML/KYC internal policies.
  • Timeframe: 3–6 months with a well-prepared document package.
  • Benefits: high transparency, access to the European market, modern digital tools for compliance automation.
  • Limitations: requirement to maintain an office and corporate secretary in Estonia, regular reporting and auditing.

COREDO’s experience shows that a Forex license in Estonia is particularly advantageous for companies focused on the EU and looking to enter the market quickly with minimal rejection risks.

Forex License in Cyprus: What You Need to Know

The CySEC is a recognized European regulator with developed licensing practices for STP and Market Maker brokers.

  • Minimum Capital: from 125,000 EUR for STP and 730,000 EUR for Market Maker.
  • Requirements: local office presence, qualified directors, transparent corporate structure, detailed business plan, and internal Due Diligence procedures.
  • Timeframes: 4–8 months.
  • Advantages: access to European investors, high reputation, flexible tax conditions.
  • Limitations: strict AML/KYC control, regular inspections and audits, corporate governance requirements.

COREDO’s practice confirms: a Forex license in Cyprus is the optimal choice for companies targeting the EU and Middle East.

Forex FCA License in the UK

The FCA is one of the most prestigious regulators in the world. A Forex license in the UK ensures maximum trust from clients, investors, and banks.

  • Minimum Capital: 730,000 GBP.
  • Requirements: impeccable reputation of managers, transparent ownership structure, high AML/KYC standards, implementation of internal control and financial monitoring systems, regular reporting.
  • Timeframes: 6–12 months.
  • Advantages: prestige, access to global markets, client interest protection, compliance with international Forex regulatory standards.
  • Limitations: high cost of license and maintenance, lengthy approval process, stringent IT infrastructure, and data security requirements.

The solution developed at COREDO for entering the UK market includes comprehensive preparation of compliance documents and support at all interaction stages with the FCA.

Forex License on BVI: Risks and Features

BVI: a popular offshore jurisdiction for forex brokers focused on quick business start-up and minimal costs.

  • Minimum Capital: 100,000–250,000 USD.
  • Timeframes: 2–4 months.
  • Advantages: low cost of license, simple corporate structure requirements, management flexibility.
  • Risks: limited access to European and Asian banks, reputational risks, heightened AML attention, difficulties in attracting institutional clients.

The COREDO team always emphasizes the need for clients to carefully assess reputational and operational risks when choosing an offshore license for a forex broker.

Forex License in Panama, Australia, Mauritius

Panama, Australia, and Mauritius are attractive alternatives for multi-jurisdictional licensing.

  • Panama: minimum capital of 150,000 USD, quick registration time (2–3 months), flexible tax conditions. Regulator: Superintendency of Capital Markets.
  • Australia: ASIC imposes strict capital requirements (from 1 million AUD), management’s experience, and internal control. A Forex license in Australia opens access to the Asian market and institutional investors.
  • Mauritius: minimum capital of 234,000 USD, average registration time (3–6 months), flexible corporate structure requirements, option to open multi-currency accounts.

COREDO’s experience shows that multi-jurisdictional licensing allows optimizing costs, increasing business stability, and reducing regulatory risks.

Let’s proceed with a comparative analysis of the key parameters of each jurisdiction.

Comparison of Jurisdictions by Parameters

Jurisdiction Regulator Min. Capital Timeframe Cost AML/KYC Reputation Transparency Risks
Estonia EFSA 50–730k EUR 3–6 months Medium High High High Low
Cyprus CySEC 125–730k EUR 4–8 months Medium High High High Medium
UK FCA 730k GBP 6–12 months High Very high Very high Very high Low
BVI FSC 100–250k USD 2–4 months Low Medium Medium Medium High
Mauritius FSC 234k USD 3–6 months Medium High Medium Medium Medium

A detailed analysis of jurisdictions allows the selection of the best conditions for obtaining a license depending on the company’s objectives.

Forex License Requirements

Illustration for the section "Forex License Requirements" in the article "Forex Trading License - Analyzing Popular Jurisdictions"
Licensing financial companies in the Forex sector requires not only capital but also a structured corporate governance system, transparency, and compliance with international AML/KYC standards.

AML/KYC: International Control Standards

Modern Forex regulation requires implementing comprehensive AML/KYC procedures, transaction monitoring automation, regular updates of internal policies, and due diligence on each client. COREDO implements solutions that automate compliance processes, reduce operational costs, and minimize the risk of fines and account blocks.

Requirements for the Qualification of Executives

Key regulators (EFSA, CySEC, FCA, ASIC) demand confirmation of professional competence from executives, relevant experience, and a clean criminal record. Capital market specialist certification and regular staff training are mandatory elements of corporate governance in forex companies. COREDO’s experience shows that investment in the team significantly reduces regulatory and operational risks.

Financial Reporting for Forex Companies

Regular financial reporting, external audit, implementation of internal control systems, and transparent income structure are mandatory requirements for all licensed forex brokers in the EU and Asia. COREDO’s solutions include implementing automated reporting systems and preparing for annual audits by international standards.

STP and Market Maker: What’s the Difference?

Illustration for the section "STP and Market Maker: What’s the Difference?" in the article "Forex Trading License - Analyzing Popular Jurisdictions"
Choosing between an STP (Straight Through Processing) and a Market Maker license determines the business model, transparency level, and capital requirements.

  • STP: the broker passes trades to the external market, minimizing conflicts of interest and increasing client trust. Capital requirements are lower, transparency is higher, and market manipulation risks are minimal.
  • Market Maker: the broker sets quotes and can act as a counterparty to client trades. Capital requirements are higher, regulatory control is stricter, but profitability is higher due to spreads and commissions.

COREDO’s practice shows that for entering the European market and attracting institutional clients, an STP license is optimal, while for Asian and offshore markets, a Market Maker license is preferable if a robust risk management system is in place.

Risks and ROI of Forex Jurisdictions

Illustration for the section "Risks and ROI of Forex Jurisdictions" in the article "Forex Trading License - Analyzing Popular Jurisdictions"
Strategic planning for entering the Forex market requires assessing not only the cost of a forex broker license but also potential ROI and various risks, from regulatory to sanctions.

ROI of Countries for Forex Broker Licensing

Key ROI metrics: **license and maintenance cost**, **market entry speed**, **access to banking services**, **client trust level**, and **scalability potential**. COREDO’s solution always builds on modeling financial flows, analyzing tax burden, and assessing business growth prospects in the chosen jurisdiction.

Fines, Sanctions, and Loss of License

Violating licensing requirements, non-compliance with AML/KYC, insufficient transparency, or errors in corporate governance can lead to fines, account blocks, license revocation, and business loss. International regulation is tightening, and only a systematic approach to compliance and risk management can protect client and investor interests.

Forex Broker License: How to Obtain?

COREDO’s team has implemented dozens of projects for registering forex brokers in the EU, Asia, and offshore jurisdictions. The process of obtaining a forex license includes:

Steps for Obtaining a Business License

  1. Developing a Forex License Business Plan: financial model, market entry strategy, description of corporate structure.
  2. Preparation of the Compliance Package: internal policies, AML/KYC procedures, due diligence of managers and shareholders.
  3. Submitting Documents and Interacting with the Regulator: support at all stages, responding to queries, refining documents.
  4. Opening Bank Accounts and Launching IT Infrastructure: choosing payment partners, implementing internal control and data security systems.
  5. Obtaining a License and Commencing Operations: integration with liquidity providers, setting up reporting, staff training.

Legal Support: How to Reduce Costs

Comprehensive support from COREDO includes not only legal support for forex brokers but also optimization of licensing costs, compliance process automation, and team training. This approach allows clients to save time and resources, minimize rejection risks, and speed up market entry.

Conclusions and Advice for Entrepreneurs

A Forex trading license is not just a formal requirement but a strategic tool for growth, trust, and business protection. Choosing the jurisdiction, license model (STP or Market Maker), building an AML/KYC system, and corporate governance are **key factors for the long-term stability and scalability of a forex company**. COREDO’s experience confirms: only a systematic and professional approach to licensing allows entering international markets, attracting institutional clients, and ensuring a return on investment in licensing. If your goal is to build a transparent, sustainable, and profitable forex business, the COREDO team is ready to be your reliable partner at every stage of this journey.

In 2024, according to international studies, over 60% of corporate losses in cross-border transactions are related to insufficient counterparty verification and neglecting due diligence. Every third case of account blocking in EU and Asian banks is a result of compliance procedure errors and a formal approach to legal business verification.

But are you ready to jeopardize your company’s reputation, assets, and strategic prospects due to one underestimated deal?

In a context where regulators in the EU, UK, Singapore, and UAE are tightening requirements for KYC and AML, and banks and payment systems are implementing automated verification systems, self-checking of counterparties becomes not just an element of internal control but a key tool for survival and growth in international markets.

Lack of comprehensive verification is not only a risk of fines, blocks, and legal proceedings but also a real threat to strategic initiatives: from entering new markets to attracting investments.

Consider: how transparent is your next partner? Are you sufficiently protected from sanction risks, fraud, corporate conflicts, and reputational losses? Are you ready to integrate best practices of due diligence into business processes, not just to meet regulatory requirements but to outpace competitors in terms of internal control?

In this article, I reveal a step-by-step algorithm for independent counterparty verification, share tools, checklists, and practical cases from COREDO that will help not only minimize risks but also enhance your business’s investment appeal. If you want to get a practical guide to due diligence, adapted to the realities of the EU, Asia, and the CIS, I recommend reading to the end.

Due diligence: what it is and why to check a counterparty

Illustration for the section "Due diligence: what it is and why to check a counterparty" in the article "Conducting Due Diligence for Counterparty Verification Independently"

Due diligence: is a comprehensive legal, financial, and operational check of counterparties aimed at identifying risks, confirming the legal purity of the deal, and compliance with procedures. In practice, it is not just a formal collection of documents but a multi-level assessment system of corporate structure, beneficiaries, financial condition, and business reputation of a potential partner.

In international business, due diligence becomes a standard of corporate governance and internal control. Compliance officer, KYC, and AML procedures, counterparty audit: these are now not only regulatory requirements but also a strategic risk management tool.

Goals of due diligence for business

  • Risk assessment in working with counterparties: timely identification of signs of fraud, corporate conflicts, affiliation, and AML/CTF non-compliance.
  • Prevention of financial and reputational losses: reducing the likelihood of account blocking, fines, legal disputes, and negative publications.
  • Ensuring the legal purity of the deal: checking corporate documents, ownership chain, and history of court decisions.
  • Compliance with international compliance standards: integrating a risk-oriented approach, automating due diligence, and implementing internal company policies.

Types of due diligence: legal, financial, operational, anti-corruption

  • Legal due diligence: analysis of corporate structure, statutory documents, identifying affiliated persons, auditing corporate conflicts and court decisions.
  • Financial due diligence: analysis of financial statements, debt obligations, assessing solvency and tax risks.
  • Operational due diligence: checking business processes, internal policies, corporate governance, analyzing operational risks.
  • Anti-corruption due diligence: identifying corruption schemes, analyzing conflicts of interest, checking compliance with international AML/CTF standards.

Counterparty verification: step-by-step instruction

Illustration for the section "Counterparty verification: step-by-step instruction" in the article "Conducting Due Diligence for Counterparty Verification Independently"

Counterparty verification requires a systematic approach and step-by-step instruction: this reduces partnership risks and helps identify potential partner issues in a timely manner. For quality due diligence, it is important to form a team that can thoroughly assess both the legal and financial aspects of verification. Next, we will examine the key steps in organizing work and analyzing counterparty data.

Gathering a team for due diligence

In practice, COREDO has implemented dozens of projects where the success of due diligence was determined not only by the quality of tools but also by the competent organization of the process. It is important to define the goals of verification, gather a team with expertise in compliance, financial analysis, and corporate intelligence, appoint a responsible compliance officer, and implement internal control.

How to gather and analyze corporate documents

The first stage: auditing corporate documents: charter, registry extracts, meeting protocols, information about directors and shareholders. COREDO practice confirms: analysis of corporate structure and identification of affiliated persons allows early detection of fictitious companies, corporate conflicts, and hidden risks.

Particular attention is paid to controlling the ownership chain and analyzing debt obligations. In several COREDO cases, it was the audit of corporate documents that revealed signs of fraudulent schemes and non-compliance with internal company policies.

Verification of beneficiaries and ultimate owners

Proper verification of beneficiaries and identification of the ultimate beneficial owner (UBO): key to managing counterparty risks. The solution developed at COREDO includes analyzing the ownership chain, collecting supporting documents, checking for affiliation, and analyzing corporate connections through international databases.

In one recent deal in the Czech Republic, the COREDO team identified a hidden beneficiary connected to an offshore structure, allowing the client to back out of a risky deal and avoid AML/CTF violations consequences.

Financial reporting and solvency

Financial due diligence: this is not just a balance check but a deep analysis of financial statements, debt obligations, assessing solvency, and tax risks. At COREDO, we apply both classical financial analysis methods and scoring systems, allowing for performance comparisons with industry benchmarks.

Particular attention is paid to analyzing debt obligations and managing investment risks. In COREDO cases for EU clients, identifying hidden debts and overdue obligations became grounds for revising deal terms.

Customer verification for AML, sanctions, and PEP

Verification for AML/CTF compliance, sanctions lists, and PEP (politically exposed persons): a mandatory stage for any international business. The COREDO solution includes automated checks against international lists, regular database updates, and KYC procedure integration.

In COREDO practice, due diligence automation allowed reducing counterparty verification time from the UK from three days to several hours, reducing the risk of sanction list inclusion and ensuring compliance with international standards.

Reputation and business reliability assessment

Managing reputational risks: a task requiring a comprehensive approach: reputational audit, court decision analysis, corporate intelligence, fraud scheme identification. At COREDO, we integrate open data collection (OSINT), media publication analysis, court decisions, and industry platform reviews.

In a case for a Singapore client, a reputational audit revealed potential partner involvement in legal proceedings, which allowed for a revised cooperation strategy.

Open sources and due diligence automation

Modern tools for independent due diligence include automated verification systems, counterparty scoring, open data collection (OSINT), and corporate platform integration. COREDO’s experience shows that due diligence automation not only speeds up the process but also enhances verification quality through multi-channel analysis.

Due diligence in the EU and Asia: differences

Illustration for the section "Due diligence in the EU and Asia: differences" in the article "Conducting Due Diligence for Counterparty Verification Independently"
Due diligence in the EU and Asia have their differences, related to legislative specifics, information disclosure requirements, and established business practices. Understanding the specifics of each jurisdiction helps avoid risks and build transparent, effective business processes when entering new markets or making deals.

Therefore, it is important to understand the due diligence procedures characteristic of European countries in advance to minimize possible difficulties when doing business in the EU.

Due diligence for business in the EU: instruction

  • Define verification goals and gather a team.
  • Request corporate documents: charter, register excerpt, information about directors and shareholders.
  • Conduct corporate structure analysis, identify ultimate beneficiaries.
  • Assess financial statements, debt obligations, tax risks.
  • Check for AML/CTF compliance, sanction lists, and PEP.
  • Conduct a reputational audit using open sources and court decisions.
  • Document the results and integrate them into internal control.

Due diligence in Asia and Africa

In Asia and Africa, due diligence requires consideration of regional standards and corporate governance specifics. In several jurisdictions (e.g., Singapore, UAE), particular attention is paid to beneficiary identification, corporate structure analysis, and AML/CTF compliance verification.

The COREDO team encountered situations where verifying a counterparty in Asia required requesting documents from multiple state registries, using local services, and considering the national legislation specifics.

Counterparty verification according to international standards

Verification for compliance with international compliance standards (KYC, AML, CTF) is an integral part of due diligence for companies operating in the EU, UK, Singapore, and Dubai. COREDO practice confirms: integrating international standards into corporate policies and automating due diligence not only ensures regulatory compliance but also reduces operational and reputational risks.

Moving to the next section: For more effective implementation of these processes, it is important to use modern tools for independent due diligence.

Tools for independent due diligence

Illustration for the section "Tools for independent due diligence" in the article "Conducting Due Diligence for Counterparty Verification Independently"
Tools for independent due diligence allow a quick and objective assessment of future partners or counterparties’ reliability without involving external consultants. Thanks to modern services, key checks can be performed independently, providing vital information for decision-making at an early stage of partnership.

Services for counterparty verification

There are dozens of tools available on the market for independent legal entity verification: from international databases (World-Check, Dow Jones Risk & Compliance, LexisNexis) to specialized platforms for corporate structure analysis and financial reporting. At COREDO, we use a hybrid approach, combining automated verification systems with manual OSINT collection and corporate intelligence.

Due diligence automation: speed and quality

Due diligence automation allows scaling the process with an increasing number of counterparties, reducing the human factor, and speeding up decision-making. Implementing counterparty scoring, integrating with internal systems, and using efficiency metrics (verification speed, identified risk level, ROI) become best practices for due diligence in international business.

In one COREDO project, due diligence automation allowed a client from Estonia to process up to 100 new counterparties a month without increasing compliance officer staff, thus improving verification quality and reducing costs.

Risk assessment and management in the project

Illustration for the section "Risk assessment and management in the project" in the article "Conducting Due Diligence for Counterparty Verification Independently"
Risk assessment and management in the project require thorough work with any potential threat sources, among which interaction with counterparties stands as paramount. Mistakes at this stage can lead to financial losses and timeline disruptions, making counterparty analysis and verification fundamental tools for effective project risk management.

Typical mistakes in counterparty verification

  • Formal approach to analyzing corporate documents and ownership chain.
  • Ignoring checks for affiliation and ultimate beneficial owner.
  • Insufficient attention to debt obligation and financial statement analysis.
  • Lack of regular AML/CTF and sanction list compliance checks.
  • Underestimation of reputational risks and court decisions.

Due diligence mistakes: examples and consequences

In COREDO’s practice, there were cases where insufficient counterparty verification led to account blocking, legal proceedings, and loss of business reputation. For example, in one UK case, a client faced a sanction risk due to a hidden beneficiary, resulting in transaction blocking and the necessity to revise the entire supply chain.
Verification Stage Main Risks Tools/Methods of Identification Recommendations for Minimization
Corporate Document Analysis Fictitious companies, forged documents Open data collection (OSINT), registry requests Verify through official sources, use multiple services
Beneficiary Check Hidden owners, affiliated persons Corporate structure analysis, KYC Request supporting documents, use scoring systems
AML/CTF and Sanctions Sanction list inclusion International list checks Regular database updates, automation
Financial Analysis Insolvency, debts Report analysis, scoring Compare with industry indicators

Due diligence in international business: recommendations

Due diligence in international business: is an essential tool that helps uncover hidden risks, ensure transaction transparency, and protect company interests when operating in new markets. This material examines key recommendations for conducting due diligence, starting with transaction and partner selection check specifics.

Due diligence in procurement and partnership

  • Integrate due diligence into every stage of procurement and partner selection processes.
  • Appoint a compliance officer responsible for internal control and counterparty audits.
  • Implement automated verification systems and counterparty scoring.
  • Regularly update internal company policies considering changes in international compliance standards.

Due diligence effectiveness metrics and ROI

Evaluating the effectiveness of due diligence includes analyzing the following metrics:

  • Time to verify one counterparty.
  • Number of identified risks and prevented incidents.
  • ROI (return on investment) from due diligence implementation: savings on legal expenses, fines, reputational losses.
  • Level of automation and process scalability.
In COREDO practice, introducing due diligence allowed clients to reduce incidents by 40% and speed up entry into new EU and Asian markets.

Tips for entrepreneurs

Independent due diligence checklist:

  • Define verification goals and appoint a responsible person.
  • Request and analyze corporate documents.
  • Check the ownership chain and identify the ultimate beneficial owner.
  • Analyze financial statements and debt obligations.
  • Check for AML/CTF compliance, sanction lists, and PEP.
  • Conduct a reputational audit through OSINT and court decision analysis.
  • Document the results and integrate them into business processes.

Risk minimization tips:

  • Use several independent sources for verification.
  • Implement due diligence automation for scalability.
  • Regularly update internal policies and train the team.
  • Don’t limit to formal checks – analyze corporate connections, court decisions, and reputational risks.

Recommendations for selecting tools and automation:

  • Choose services integrated with international databases and supporting counterparty scoring.
  • Invest in due diligence automation to speed up processes and improve verification quality.

Major mistakes and how to avoid them:

  • Don’t rely solely on formal document collection.
  • Don’t ignore corporate structure and affiliation analysis.
  • Don’t neglect regular AML/CTF and sanction compliance checks.
With the tightening of international compliance standards and the growth of cross-border transactions, independent counterparty verification becomes a strategic business asset. COREDO’s experience shows: integrating due diligence into corporate practice not only minimizes risks but also creates new opportunities for growth and development in global markets.
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