200 Top Money & Finance Companies

What to check before you trust a financial company

With money services, a bad choice can cost far more than the price of a product. Reviews here can show how a company treats customers when something goes wrong, but they work well alongside a few basic checks you can make yourself. Nothing on this page is personal financial advice.

Is it licensed or registered where you live?

Banks, lenders, money transfer services, investment platforms and many crypto businesses need a licence or registration in the countries they serve. Financial regulators usually publish a searchable register. Check that the exact company name and website on the register match the site you are using, since copycat sites sometimes borrow a real firm's name.

Understand the full cost

• Loans and cards: compare the total amount repayable and the annual rate, not just the monthly payment. Look for late-payment and early-repayment fees.
• Money transfers: the exchange rate markup can cost more than the stated fee. Compare the amount the recipient actually gets.
• Investing and crypto: check trading fees, spreads, withdrawal fees and any charges for inactive accounts.
• Buy now, pay later: missed payments can bring fees and, with some providers, affect your credit record.

How your money is held

Ask what happens to your balance if the company fails. Bank deposits are often covered by a government protection scheme up to a limit, but e-money accounts, investment platforms and crypto wallets may follow different rules or none. The company's terms should explain this plainly.

Warning signs and common complaints

• Upfront fees for a loan: asking for payment before releasing a loan is a pattern often linked to fraud. Be very cautious.
• Guaranteed returns: any investment promising high, fixed returns with no risk deserves serious doubt.
• Debt relief with large advance charges: understand what you pay, when, and what the company will actually do for you.
• Frozen accounts and slow withdrawals: reviews often mention these. Keep records of every request and reply.
• Pressure to act fast: a genuine provider will let you take time to read the terms.

CandorRated company pages show who appears to run the website, how long the domain has been registered and which contact details are published. A finance site with no named company, no address and a very new domain gives you little to rely on. Use the country filter to find providers that serve where you live.

Frequently asked questions

How can I check whether a lender or broker is legitimate?

Search for the company on your national financial regulator's register and compare the name, address and web address with the site in front of you.

Are reviews a good way to choose a bank or broker?

They are useful for service quality: account opening, support, withdrawals and complaint handling. They do not replace checking fees, licensing and how your money is protected.

What should I do if I think I have been scammed?

Contact your bank or card issuer straight away, report it to the relevant authority in your country, and keep all messages and receipts.