Apply for a licence

A: The error is due to the security levels set in your computer or network. Please see the two options below on how to address this:

1: Unblocking the file

Save the Application Form to your 'Desktop', or a relevant folder.



Right-click on the icon and select to view its 'Properties' as shown below:



Click ‘Unblock’ and then select 'OK' to confirm your choice:




2: Change the Name of the File

Save the Application Form to your Desktop or relevant folder. Open the file and Enable Editing (if applicable).

Click OK to the error shown below:



Click Save As and rename the file – it is sufficient to change just one character (e.g. adding the number 2 as shown below):

A: Your Macro Security settings are preventing the Application Form code from running. Please see one option below on how to address this:

Using Trusted Locations

In Excel, click on File and select OPTIONS.


Select TRUST CENTER



Select TRUSTED LOCATIONS, and then ADD A NEW LOCATION



Browse to or type in the path to your folder.



Finally, save the FSC Application Form in that same folder so that Excel will not object to running it.

A: It depends on the conditions.

Trading of Forex Futures is captured and licensable under the Financial Services (Markets in Financial Instruments) Act, that transposes the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (“MiFID”) into local legislation. However, trading spot FX falls outside the scope of MiFID and is not a regulated activity, hence, not licensable by the GFSC.

However, a firm will have to consider whether any of the activities and/or services it conducts, may be captured under the Financial Services (Investment and Fiduciary Services) Act or the Financial Services (EEA)(Payment Services) Regulations.

Please note that it is ultimately up to the firm to ensure it applies for the correct authorisation and we would, therefore, suggest that you seek independent advice from a local professional body such as a law or accountancy firm.