MFSA issues warning against ‘unlicensed entity’ claiming local registration

The Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) has issued a warning against an "unlicensed entity" using a Maltese company’s registered address and other company details.

In a statement released yesterday, the MFSA said it had become aware of an entity operating under the name of Betal Trade FX, which has an internet presence at https://betaltrade.com/, which is still online as at time of writing.

The entity claims that “it holds a Category 3 Investment Services Licence …issued by the Malta Financial Services Authority (The MFSA)”.

The MFSA said it wishes to alert the public, in Malta and abroad, that “Betal Trade FX is NOT a Maltese registered Company NOR licensed or otherwise authorised by the MFSA to provide any forex trading services or other financial services which are required to be licensed or otherwise authorised under Maltese law”.

“The public should therefore refrain from undertaking any business or transactions with the above-mentioned entity.”

The MFSA reminded consumers of financial services not to enter into any financial services transaction unless they have ascertained that the entity with whom the transaction is being made is authorised to provide such services by the MFSA or another reputable financial services regulator.

“Investors should also be extra cautious when being approached with offers of financial services via unconventional channels such as telephone calls or social media,” the MFSA said.

A list of entities licensed by the MFSA can be viewed on the official website of the MFSA here.

If you are a victim of a scam or think you might be dealing with an unauthorised entity or any other type of financial scam, first of all stop all transactions with the company and contact the MFSA as soon as a suspicion arises.