Financial Regulatory Authority (FRA)
Regulates Egypt’s non-banking financial sector including capital markets.
Tags:Forex RegulationBasic Information
The Financial Regulatory Authority (FRA) is the primary regulatory body overseeing non-banking financial markets and instruments in Egypt. Established under Law No. 10 of 2009, the FRA operates as an independent government agency with a legal mandate to supervise capital markets, insurance activities, mortgage finance, financial leasing, factoring, and securitization. Its headquarters are located in Smart Village, Giza, Egypt.
Background and Historical Development
The FRA was formed in July 2009 as part of Egypt’s financial sector reforms to consolidate regulatory oversight under a single authority. It replaced three predecessor agencies: the Egyptian Insurance Supervisory Authority (EISA), the Capital Market Authority (CMA), and the Mortgage Finance Authority (MFA). This unification aimed to enhance market stability, reduce regulatory fragmentation, and align Egypt’s financial supervision with international best practices, particularly following the 2008 global financial crisis.
Legal Authority and Regulatory Framework
The FRA derives its powers from multiple Egyptian laws, including:
- Law No. 10 of 2009 (establishing the FRA)
- Insurance Supervision and Control Law No. 10 of 1981
- Capital Market Law No. 95 of 1992
- Mortgage Finance Law No. 148 of 2001
- Financial Leasing Law No. 95 of 1995
- Microfinance Law No. 141 of 2014
The authority ensures compliance through licensing, inspections, and enforcement actions against market manipulation or fraud.
Core Responsibilities and Regulatory Scope
The FRA’s primary functions include:
- Licensing financial service providers in non-banking sectors
- Monitoring market transparency and competitiveness
- Protecting investor rights through disclosure requirements
- Combating financial crimes and market abuse
- Promoting financial literacy and investment awareness
- Coordinating with international regulatory bodies
Its jurisdiction covers capital markets, insurance firms, mortgage lenders, leasing companies, and other non-bank financial institutions.
Contact Information and Office Address
The FRA’s main office is located at:
Building No. 136B, Financial District
Smart Village, Kilo 28 – Alexandria Road
Giza, Egypt
The authority maintains active communication channels through its official website (fra.gov.eg) and LinkedIn profile for public inquiries and regulatory updates.
How to Verify FRA-Regulated Entities
To confirm whether a financial institution operates under FRA supervision:
- Check the entity’s license documentation for FRA registration
- Consult the FRA’s official public registers of licensed firms
- Verify the company’s regulatory disclosures for FRA oversight references
- Contact the FRA directly through its official communication channels