The BVI Financial Services Commission is the regulatory body for financial services in the BVI. It’s mantra is ‘Vigilance, Integrity, Accountability’.

The BVI Financial Services Commission (FSC) is urging residents to be on high alert for unlicensed individuals and companies offering investment or financial advisory services in the territory.

In a public advisory, the regulator said persons should note that anyone providing investment, financial advisory, or investment management services in or from within the BVI must be licensed under the Securities and Investment Business Act, 2010. Conducting such business without a licence is a criminal offence that can lead to fines or imprisonment.

The FSC reminded the community that dealing with unlicensed operators significantly increases the risk of fraud, poor management of funds, and losses from unsuitable or high-risk investment products. Without regulatory oversight, victims may also have limited legal recourse if things go wrong.

Residents were urged to verify whether any individual or company offering investment opportunities is properly authorised. A full list of licensed entities is available on the FSC website, and verification requests can be sent to the Commission directly.

The regulator also encouraged the public to ask tough questions, be wary of unsolicited offers or promises of unusually high returns, and report any suspicious activity immediately.

Only entities licensed or approved by the FSC are legally permitted to conduct banking, money services, insurance, fiduciary services, investment business, virtual asset services, or other regulated financial activities in the territory.