Is Interactive Brokers a Scam? Regulation Check 2026
We checked Interactive Brokers's licence in the official ASIC register. Here is what the public records say.
Verdict
Interactive Brokers is NOT a scam. It holds ASIC licence 453554, authorising it to offer trading services in Australia.
How to verify on the official register
| Regulator | ASIC ASIC Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) |
| Licence Number | 453554 |
| Regulated Entity | Interactive Brokers Australia Pty Ltd |
| Founded | 1978 |
| Listed | NASDAQ:IBKR — publicly audited |
What ASIC regulation means
ASIC-regulated brokers must keep client funds in segregated accounts, provide negative balance protection, and submit to independent audits. Clients can file complaints with ASIC directly.
What ASIC regulation means for your money
- Client funds held in segregated bank accounts, separate from Interactive Brokers's own capital
- Negative balance protection — you cannot lose more than your deposit
- Right to file complaints directly with ASIC if Interactive Brokers fails to resolve your issue
- Interactive Brokers submits to regular independent financial audits under ASIC oversight
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Interactive Brokers a scam or legitimate?
Interactive Brokers is NOT a scam. It holds ASIC licence number 453554. ASIC is one of the world's most respected financial regulators. The licence is publicly verifiable in the ASIC official register.
How do I check Interactive Brokers's ASIC licence?
Go to the official ASIC website and use the public register search. Search for licence number 453554 or the entity name. The record will confirm Interactive Brokers's authorisation status and the scope of its permissions.
Are my funds safe with Interactive Brokers?
As an ASIC-regulated broker, Interactive Brokers must keep all client funds in segregated bank accounts, completely separate from company funds. This protects your deposits even if Interactive Brokers encounters financial difficulties.
What protection do I have as a Interactive Brokers client in Australia?
In Australia, Interactive Brokers operates under ASIC supervision. You are entitled to: segregated client funds, negative balance protection (you cannot lose more than you deposit), and the right to file complaints directly with ASIC.
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