The Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market of the Republic of Kazakhstan has published guidance urging investors to confirm that a broker holds a valid license for brokerage and dealer activities before transferring money or providing personal or payment data. Investors should use the agency’s official register of licensed financial market participants to establish whether a firm is authorized to operate in Kazakhstan. Checks should cover the firm’s exact legal name, current licensing status, any suspension or revocation, whether it is being liquidated or ceasing operations, and whether its offered services fall within the licensed activities. A foreign license, overseas registration or statement that licensing is in progress does not by itself authorize a company to conduct licensed activities in Kazakhstan. The agency also warned against promises of guaranteed returns, unusually high short-term profits, risk-free investments or guaranteed repayment. Where licensing details are absent or inconsistent, investors should withhold funds and data. Suspected fraud should prompt them to stop dealing with the organization, retain correspondence and transaction evidence, and contact law enforcement and, where necessary, the agency.

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