Understanding the Seychelles Financial Services Authority (FSA) and Its Role

The Seychelles Financial Services Authority (FSA) is an independent regulatory body responsible for overseeing non-bank financial services within Seychelles. Established under the Financial Services Authority Act of 2013, the FSA plays a critical role in licensing and supervising entities involved in capital markets, collective investments, insurance, and fiduciary services. The FSA’s primary goal is to enhance and expand Seychelles’ non-bank financial services sector. By implementing a strong regulatory and supervisory framework, the FSA aims to protect investments, ensure consumer and stakeholder protection, and uphold the jurisdiction’s reputation.

Benefits of Acquiring a Securities License in Seychelles

Why Obtain a Securities License in Seychelles?

A Securities License in Seychelles offers several strategic advantages for businesses and investors:

• Strategic Time Zone: Seychelles’ time zone is ideal for conducting business across four continents in a single day, providing excellent access to African markets.
• Skilled Workforce: The country boasts a well-educated and skilled workforce, with English as the official language, facilitating smooth communication for international companies.
• Favourable Tax Regulations: License holders benefit from preferential tax rates, provided they meet the substantial activity requirements.
• Modern Legal Framework: Engage in securities dealing or advisory services within a modern and adaptable legal framework.
• Enhanced Privacy and Asset Protection: Seychelles’ corporate laws ensure confidentiality, restricting public access to information about company directors and shareholders.
• Low Capital Requirements: Enjoy low initial capital requirements and affordable fees for business incorporation and licensing.

Securities Business in Seychelles

The Seychelles Financial Services Authority (FSA) offers specific license categories for securities-related services, including:

Securities Dealer: Authorised to engage in activities such as buying, selling, and trading securities.

Investment Advisor: Permitted to provide advice on securities and investment opportunities.

Each license category is tailored to a set of prescribed business activities, ensuring compliance with the FSA’s regulations.

By obtaining a Securities License in Seychelles, businesses can leverage these benefits to expand their operations, access new markets, and ensure robust legal and financial protection.

Securities License Categories in Seychelles: Securities Dealer and Investment Advisor

Securities Dealer

A Securities Dealer license in Seychelles authorizes the holder to engage in the following business activities:

• Acting as a Principal or Agent: Making or offering to make agreements with other persons for acquiring, disposing of, subscribing for, or underwriting securities, or effecting securities transactions.
• Sales and Solicitations: Facilitating the sale, disposition, or dealing of securities for valuable consideration, whether on margin, installment, or otherwise, and any related solicitations.
• Securities Exchange Participation: Participating in transactions involving securities on a securities exchange.
• Order Execution: Receiving and executing orders to buy or sell securities.
• Portfolio Management: Managing a portfolio of securities for another person, where the manager may hold the property of the other person.

Investment Advisor

An Investment Advisor license in Seychelles allows the holder to conduct the following business activities:

• Investment Advice: Providing advice to others concerning investment in securities.
• Securities Analysis and Reporting: Issuing analyses or reports concerning specific securities.
• Portfolio Management (Without Holding Property): Managing a portfolio of securities for another person, without holding the property of that person, and under terms that preclude the advisor from doing so.

Comprehensive Guide to Obtaining a Securities License in Seychelles

Regulatory Capital Requirements

To operate as a licensed securities dealer or investment advisor in Seychelles, businesses must meet specific regulatory capital requirements:

• Securities Dealer: Minimum issued and paid-up capital of 50,000 USD.
• Investment Advisor: Minimum issued and paid-up capital of 25,000 USD.

Application Fees

The application fees for a Seychelles FSA license vary based on the license category:

• Investment Advisor: Fees depend on whether the applicant is an individual or a legal entity.
• Company Incorporation and Regulatory Fees: One-time fees applicable for incorporation and other regulatory requirements.

Annual Fees

The renewal fees for Seychelles FSA licenses are fixed and depend on the license type:

• Investment Advisor: Fees may vary based on whether the applicant is an individual or a legal entity.
• Supplementary Fees: Additional fees may apply based on the regulatory obligations of the company.

Licensing Timeframe

The typical licensing process with the Seychelles FSA can be completed within 3 months, contingent upon:

• The completeness and quality of the provided information.
• The applicant’s ability to present a well-defined business plan and vision.

Due to potential variations in the Seychelles FSA’s workload and response times for additional information requests, it is recommended to budget for a timeframe of 4 to 6 months.

Obtaining a Seychelles FSA Securities License with Fionza

The Fionza team employs an advanced project management methodology to oversee each licensing project methodically. Leveraging extensive experience with the Seychelles FSA, SALVUS ensures the following:

• Information Gathering: Collecting pertinent information and preparing all required documentation.
• Resource Optimization: Assisting clients in strategically allocating in-house staff, outsourcing arrangements, and third-party service providers.
• Complete Application Preparation: Ensuring a well-supported application for a smooth and successful licensing process.

Contact Us for Your Seychelles FSA or Other Licensing Needs

If you have any questions or need assistance with obtaining a Seychelles FSA license or other licensing requirements, please contact us at:

Email: marketing@fionzagroup.com

At Fionza, we understand that every business faces unique challenges, and we are here to support you in achieving your business goals. We look forward to working with you and providing valuable assistance throughout your licensing journey.