Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
FCA Handbook, CASS 7.13 Segregation of client money
The FCA Handbook describes segregation of client money from a firm's own money as an important safeguard for its protection.
A segregated account keeps customers' money apart from the firm's own money. This page summarises how the FCA Handbook describes that idea in its client money rules. It does not say that any binary options provider holds segregated accounts, and it does not assess any firm.
What the Handbook Says Segregation Is For
In section 7.13 of its client money rules (CASS 7), the FCA Handbook, shown as last updated on 25 September 2026, states in guidance 7.13.1: "The segregation of client money from a firm's own money is an important safeguard for its protection." The purpose, on this wording, is protection of the client money itself.
Designated Client Bank Accounts
Rule 7.13.18 sets a condition for one kind of account: "A designated client bank account may be used for a client only where that client has consented to the use of that account." The Handbook also refers firms to their duties on bank paperwork: "Firms are reminded of their obligations under CASS 7.18 (Acknowledgment letters) for client bank accounts."
What the Rules Do Not Tell You
The Handbook applies to firms authorised in the UK. In the UK the sale of binary options to retail consumers is prohibited; see our guide to binary options in the United Kingdom. The pages reviewed do not name any binary options provider and do not say that segregation guarantees repayment. A statement on a broker's website that funds are segregated is a claim to check, not proof. Compare it with how to check whether a broker is regulated, the wider guide to binary options regulation explained, and the compensation context in binary options investor compensation scheme explained.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the FCA Handbook say segregation is for?
Guidance 7.13.1 states: "The segregation of client money from a firm's own money is an important safeguard for its protection."
Does a segregated account guarantee I get my money back?
The pages reviewed do not say so. They describe segregation as a safeguard, not as a guarantee.
Does the Handbook say a binary options provider has segregated accounts?
No. The pages reviewed do not mention binary options or name any provider.
Does this page address whether an individual could face liability?
This page summarises what the regulators' published guidance says. It does not address whether an individual could face liability. Seek independent legal advice.
Sources and Official References
- FCA Handbook: CASS 7.13 Segregation of client money (page last updated 25 September 2026)
This page summarises what the regulators' published guidance says. It does not address whether an individual could face liability. Seek independent legal advice.
This page summarises what the regulators' published guidance says. It does not address whether an individual could face liability. Seek independent legal advice.