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AFM

Authority for the Financial Markets - The Netherlands' financial regulatory authority.

Quick answer

AFM is the Dutch financial markets regulator, supervising conduct under EU MiFID II rules. It enforces ESMA restrictions on retail trading.

Definition

AFM (Autoriteit Financiële Markten) is the Dutch financial markets regulator responsible for supervising the conduct of financial institutions. Operating under EU MiFID II regulations, it ensures fair and transparent financial markets in the Netherlands.

How It Works

  • Supervises conduct of financial institutions in Netherlands
  • Operates under EU MiFID II framework
  • Works alongside DNB (Dutch Central Bank) for prudential supervision
  • Enforces ESMA restrictions on retail CFD/forex trading

Trading Tips

1

Dutch brokers follow strict EU regulations

2

Leverage caps apply (30:1 forex)

3

Check AFM register for authorized firms

AFM Example

Say a Netherlands-based trader reports a broker for misleading bonus ads. The AFM, as conduct supervisor, can order the promotion pulled and fine the firm, while prudential supervision sits with De Nederlandsche Bank. Two supervisors, split duties.

How Traders Use AFM

EU traders should know the AFM enforces how firms treat you, not whether they stay solvent. For disputes, start with the firm, then the AFM complaints route and Kifid, rather than posting into the void.

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