Forex License: Which Is Better – SVG or Anjouan? The Advantages of Each Jurisdiction
Forex Licensing Landscape
When choosing a jurisdiction for a forex brokerage, one of the most common debates is whether to set up in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) or Anjouan (Comoros Islands). Both have become popular among startup brokers because of their affordability and relatively simple setup. However, the two jurisdictions offer very different levels of regulation and recognition.
SVG (Saint Vincent and the Grenadines)
- No actual forex license – Since 2018, the SVG Financial Services Authority (SVGFSA) has not issued brokerage licenses. Instead, it only registers companies, which then receive a certificate of incorporation as financial or investment entities.
- Unregulated operations – Brokers registered in SVG can legally exist but are not licensed or supervised as forex brokers. This means no compliance requirements, but also no investor protection.
- Low cost & fast setup – SVG remains attractive for startups because it’s cheap and fast to incorporate.
- High risk for reputation – Many banks, PSPs, and liquidity providers are reluctant to work with SVG companies because of the lack of regulation.
✅ Good for: very small startups that need a fast and cheap entry, or brokers targeting high-risk markets.
❌ Not recommended for businesses that want banking partnerships or long-term credibility.
Anjouan (Comoros Islands)
- Valid forex license available – Unlike SVG, Anjouan offers a recognized forex license issued by the Anjouan Financial Services Authority.
- Regulated environment – Brokers must submit documentation, compliance procedures, and pass a review process before receiving the license.
- Global recognition – While not as prestigious as European licenses (CySEC, FCA), Anjouan is recognized by banks, PSPs, and liquidity providers, making it easier to operate.
- Affordable and fast – Licensing costs and annual maintenance fees are significantly lower than in Europe or Mauritius. Setup can be completed in 4–6 weeks.
- 0% corporate tax – Offshore-friendly tax regime, attractive for international brokers.
✅ Good for: startups and mid-sized brokers who want a real license at low cost with fast market entry.
❌ Not as prestigious as Malta or Cyprus for attracting institutional investors.
SVG vs Anjouan – Key Comparison
|
Feature |
SVG |
Anjouan |
|
License type |
No forex license (only incorporation) |
Valid forex license available |
|
Regulatory authority |
SVGFSA (registry only) |
Anjouan Financial Services Authority |
|
Setup time |
1–2 weeks |
4–6 weeks |
|
Cost |
Very low |
Low/affordable |
|
Banking & PSP support |
Limited, often rejected |
Accepted by more partners |
|
Reputation |
Weak / high risk |
Moderate / recognized offshore |
|
Tax regime |
Flexible, offshore |
0% corporate tax |
Final Thoughts
If you are serious about entering the forex industry, Anjouan is a far better choice than SVG. While SVG offers only a quick company registration with no real license or oversight, Anjouan provides a legitimate, regulated license that is internationally recognized and still affordable.
For brokers who want credibility, banking relationships, and long-term growth, Anjouan is the smarter option.
📩 Contact us today — our legal experts will help you incorporate your company, obtain a forex license in Anjouan, and launch your brokerage quickly and legally.
