CySEC Publishes New Guidelines on Marketing of CFDs

The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) has published comprehensive new guidelines governing the marketing and promotion of Contracts for Difference (CFDs) and other complex financial instruments.

Key Provisions

Risk Warnings - Standardized risk warning format required on all promotional materials - Percentage of retail client losses must be updated quarterly - Risk warnings must occupy at least 20% of the visible advertisement area

Promotional Content Restrictions - Prohibition on using testimonials from current or former clients - Ban on referencing past performance as indicative of future results - Restrictions on bonus offerings and promotional incentives

Digital Marketing - New requirements for social media advertising - Mandatory disclosure of paid partnerships and influencer relationships - Enhanced requirements for landing pages and conversion funnels

Compliance Timeline

CIFs must implement the new guidelines by April 30, 2026. CySEC has indicated it will conduct supervisory reviews starting May 2026.

How We Can Help

Our compliance advisory team assists CySEC-regulated firms with marketing compliance reviews, policy updates, and staff training.