Hardware FixRecommendedDevice not working? Your driver may be the problemCheck updates for common hardware issues.Fix DriversOctober DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsPC HealthRecommendedCrashes, freezes, slowdowns? Check your PC nowSpot repairable issues before they interrupt work.Check PC×
Skip to content
The Finance Base
The Money Desk · Blog
Re:

Starkmarkets Review: A Scam or Legit Forex Broker?

StarkMarkets is not a verifiably regulated forex broker. Regulators in several jurisdictions have issued warnings, and Bulgaria’s 2026 list links Krisimark Ltd with the brand and its domains.
From TheFinanceBase Team6 min to read
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

StarkMarkets should be avoided. The broker and its reported operator, Krisimark Ltd, have been identified as unauthorized by financial regulators in the UK, Austria, Québec, Spain, and Bulgaria. New Zealand’s Financial Markets Authority also said StarkMarkets had “the hallmarks of a scam.”

That does not mean a regulator warning is the same as a criminal conviction. It does mean there is no sound basis for treating StarkMarkets as a properly regulated forex broker or depositing money with it.

Is StarkMarkets a legitimate forex broker?

No. The available regulatory record shows StarkMarkets was not authorized to provide financial services in several jurisdictions. The brand has been linked to Krisimark Ltd, reportedly based in Sofia, Bulgaria, but a company registration is not the same as a forex or investment-services license.

The strongest evidence is the repeated appearance of the firm in official regulator warnings:

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Sale
ErGear Triple Monitor Stand Fits Three 17–32 inch Monitors
  • Wide Compatibility for Triple 32" Setups: This triple monitor desk mount fits most 17"-32" flat or curved screens weighing 4.4-17.6 lbs per arm with VESA 75x75mm or 100x100mm mounting holes. Please check your monitor size, weight, VESA pattern, and desk thickness before purchase.
  • Maximize Desk Space & Efficiency: Elevate your setup with this triple monitor mount. Replace original base stands to instantly reclaim space for your keyboard, mouse, and accessories. Designed to support 3 screens, this sturdy three monitor arm keeps your workstation organized, clutter-free, and built for peak productivity.
  • Smooth and effortless height adjustment: Each arm of this three arm monitor stand is carefully designed for smooth and effortless height adjustment. If the monitor shifts up or down after installation, simply adjust the tension of the arms until the screen is stably held at your desired height.
  • Flexible Viewing for Work and Gaming: Customize your setup using a versatile triple monitor mount. Tilt, swivel, and rotate each screen on this 3 monitor stand to build an immersive gaming station or efficient trading desk. Every adjustable three monitor arm delivers optimal ergonomic flexibility.
  • Two Secure Mounting Options: Choose C-clamp or grommet mounting to fit your desk setup. The C-clamp fits desks 0.39"-3.15" thick, while the grommet base fits desks 0.39"-2.36" thick for a stable triple screen workstation. Please refer to the listing page video for more detailed desk installation compatibility.
Regulator Date Finding
New Zealand FMA July 14, 2020 StarkMarkets had the hallmarks of a scam.
UK FCA October 12, 2020 Stark Markets was not authorized to provide financial services in the UK.
Austrian FMA September 24, 2020 Krisimark Ltd was not authorized to conduct the relevant licensed banking business in Austria.
Québec AMF March 25, 2021 StarkMarkets was not registered or authorized to solicit investors in Québec.
Spain’s CNMV May 10, 2021 StarkMarkets.io was not authorized to provide investment services, including forex-related services.

The Bulgarian Financial Supervision Commission’s February 2026 list of companies not licensed by the commission also includes Krisimark Ltd, company number 206066758. That document associates the company with StarkMarkets and lists several related domains, including starkmarkets.com and starkmarkets.co.

What protections would customers lack?

The UK FCA specifically stated that customers dealing with Stark Markets would not have access to the UK Financial Ombudsman Service or protection from the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. Those protections are important because regulated brokers must meet standards covering areas such as client money, conduct, complaints, and supervision.

Without authorization in a customer’s jurisdiction, an account holder may have little practical recourse if:

  • a withdrawal is delayed or refused;
  • the account balance is changed without a clear explanation;
  • the firm stops responding;
  • the website disappears; or
  • the company demands more money before releasing funds.

A broker’s claim that it is “registered” somewhere does not solve this problem. Before opening an account, check the regulator’s own register and confirm that the exact legal entity, website domain, and services match. Do not rely on a license number displayed on a broker’s website.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #2
Sale
Suptek Hex LED LCD Monitor Stand up Desk Mount Extra Tall 31.5 inch Pole Heavy Duty Fully Adjustable Stand for 6 / Six Screens up to 27 inch (MD68126)
  • Compatibility - Hex monitor mount ideal for most screens up to 27" and 22lbs each with 75x75mm or 100x100mm backside mounting holes.
  • Fully aticulation - Rotate 360°, tilt ±90° up and down, swivel ±90° left and right (middle plates tilt ±45° up and down, swivel ±45° left and right), extra tall height adjustment along the center pole.
  • Two install options - C-clamp and optional grommet base (fits desk up to 4" thickness) save your valuable desk space.
  • Integrated cable management - Keeps your desk tidy and clean by organizing your power and AV cables in detachable cable clips.
  • Easy installation - Step-by-step user manual and organized hardware kit for hassle free mounting.

StarkMarkets company and domain history

Regulatory records use slightly different versions of the name, including Stark Markets and StarkMarkets. The FCA and Austrian FMA link the brand to Krisimark Ltd. The domains appearing in regulator and Bulgarian FSC records include:

  • starkmarkets.com
  • starkmarkets.io
  • starkmarkets.co

Older third-party reports also referred to SWISSGEMS Ltd, but the regulatory material reviewed here does not establish that SWISSGEMS Ltd was a licensed forex broker. That uncertainty is another reason not to assume that a different company name represents a new, authorized business.

Trading conditions advertised in older reviews

Historical reviews published around 2020 described Bronze, Silver, and Gold account tiers with approximate minimum deposits of $1,000, $2,500, and $10,000. They also reported a web-based trading platform, leverage of up to 1:400, and EUR/USD spreads of about 3 pips.

These figures should not be treated as current broker terms. There is no reliable, transparent current website or regulator filing confirming that these accounts, spreads, leverage levels, or platform arrangements remain available.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
VIVO Black Hex Monitor Desk Mount for 27-38 in Ultrawides, STAND-TS06C
  • Hex Monitor Mount: Fits 6 screens up to 22 lbs in weight (each) with VESA 75x75mm or 100x100mm mounting holes --Patented--
  • Versatile Screen Setup: Each arm accommodates an Ultrawide + Dual Screen Setup (one 34” to 38” center ultra-wide with two 24” to 27” standard monitors on the outsides) or a Standard Screen Setup (three 24” to 32” monitors)
  • Premium Telescoping Arms for Flush Setup: Unique telescoping design expands arms straight outwards so that nothing extends past the back edge of your desk, creating a flush-to-wall setup. The arms slide into each other for added strength and stability
  • Articulation and Height Adjustment: Adjustable mount offers +90° to -90° tilt (+15° to -15° on center brackets), 180° swivel, 360° rotation, and height adjustment along the center pole. Monitors can be placed in portrait or landscape orientation
  • Easy Installation: Mounting your monitors is a simple process with detachable VESA brackets. The stand secures to your desk (up to 4” thick) via C-clamp or grommet mount for excellent support. Instructions and hardware are provided for simple assembly

The reported leverage is also a warning sign when considered alongside the regulatory status. High leverage can magnify losses quickly, while a wide spread such as 3 pips can make frequent trading expensive. Neither figure proves misconduct, but neither makes an unauthorized broker safer.

Fees and withdrawal conditions reported historically

Archived third-party reviews described several potentially costly provisions in older StarkMarkets terms:

Reported item Historical figure Important qualification
Dormant-account fee 50 Currency and current applicability could not be verified.
Withdrawal fee 3.5% Reported in historical reviews, not confirmed current terms.
Maintenance fee 20% Historical claim only.
Profit-clearance fee 1.5% to 5% Historical claim only.
Bonus conditions Additional trading-volume requirements Reported conditions could affect withdrawals.

Fees are particularly important when a broker makes them a condition of withdrawal. A legitimate financial firm should disclose its charges clearly before a customer deposits. More importantly, customers should be extremely cautious if they are told to pay a new “tax,” “insurance,” “unlock,” “verification,” or “withdrawal” fee before receiving their own money. Sending another payment often increases the loss rather than resolving the original problem.

What do customer reviews say?

Online review platforms show a poor reputation associated with the StarkMarkets domain. Trustpilot displays a 1.5 out of 5 TrustScore for the Stark Chain profile associated with starkmarkets.com, with 73 reviews shown. Reviews.io displays a rating of approximately 1.3 based on 86 reviews, with about 2% of reviewers recommending the site.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #4
Single LCD Computer Monitor Free-Standing Desk Stand Mount Riser for 13 inch to 32 inch screen with Swivel, Height Adjustable, Rotation, Vesa Base Stand Holds One (1) Screen up to 77Lbs(HT05B-001))
  • COMPATIBILITY ☞ Single Computer monitor mount free standing Desk Stand Riser fitting screens for 13,15,17,19,21,23,27,30,32 inch LCD LED Plasma flat screens TV with 50x50mm,75x75mm or 100x100mm backside mounting holes, Includes cable management to keep cords clean and organized
  • ERGONOMIC VIEWING ☞ designed to elevate your monitor to a better viewing angle encouraging better posture for your neck and back while working long desk hours
  • FUNCTIONAL DESIGN☞ Adjustable bracket offers -15°to +10° tilt, -50° to +50° swivel, 360° rotation, and 4 level height adjustment along the center tube. Monitor can be placed in portrait or landscape shapes
  • EASY INSTALLATION – Mounting your monitor is a simple process with an open top slot VESA plate. you can install it within 15 minutes according to the instruction manual, We provide all the necessary tools and hardware for easy assembly
  • SAFETY USE: 1/3" inch Tempered safety glass can bear Maximum weight capacity 77Lbs

Common allegations include rejected or delayed withdrawals, requests for additional deposits, and demands for extra payments. These are user-generated reports, so they do not independently prove that every incident occurred or that every review is authentic. They are nevertheless consistent with the risk shown by the regulatory warnings.

Is the StarkMarkets website still operating?

Current availability appears unreliable. A May 2026 WikiFX profile described the official website as normally inaccessible or closed. ScamAdviser’s listing reported that starkmarkets.com redirected to a page titled “Site is not secure,” while an older check of starkmarkets.io recorded a 403 Forbidden response.

Website-status tools can change from one day to the next and are not proof of fraud by themselves. Conversely, a functioning website, an SSL certificate, or a professional-looking login page would not prove that a broker is licensed. Encryption protects a connection; it does not establish regulatory authorization, segregated client funds, or the ability to process withdrawals.

What to do if you deposited money

  1. Do not send more money. Ignore requests for taxes, account-unlocking charges, insurance, verification payments, or minimum balances required to withdraw.
  2. Save evidence. Keep account statements, payment receipts, wallet addresses, emails, chat logs, phone numbers, screenshots, and the exact website addresses used.
  3. Contact the payment provider quickly. Ask your card issuer, bank, electronic-money provider, or cryptocurrency exchange whether a chargeback, recall, or fraud investigation is possible. Recovery is not guaranteed, but delay can reduce the available options.
  4. Secure your accounts. Change passwords reused on the broker’s website, enable two-factor authentication, and monitor bank and card activity. If you shared identity documents, watch for signs of identity misuse.
  5. Report the firm. Contact your national financial regulator and the relevant police or fraud-reporting service. Include the legal name, domains, payment details, and communications.

Common claims that should not be trusted

  • “It is regulated because it is registered in Bulgaria.” Company registration and financial authorization are different. The Bulgarian FSC’s 2026 list identifies Krisimark Ltd among companies not licensed by the commission.
  • “The warnings are too old to matter.” The warnings date from 2020 and 2021, but the 2026 Bulgarian FSC list still links Krisimark Ltd with StarkMarkets and related domains.
  • “The FCA warning proves a criminal conviction.” It does not. The FCA warning establishes an authorization problem, not a criminal court judgment.
  • “The old spreads and account terms are still available.” They could not be verified as current.
  • “The website has SSL, so it is safe.” SSL does not verify a broker’s license or ability to return client funds.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

FAQ

Is StarkMarkets a scam?

StarkMarkets has been described by New Zealand’s FMA as having the hallmarks of a scam, and multiple regulators have identified it or its reported operator as unauthorized. It is more precise to call it an unauthorized, scam-like broker than to claim a criminal fraud judgment has been issued.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Best Value
Sale
HUANUO FlowLift™ Dual Monitor Stand, Fully Adjustable Gaming Monitor Desk Mount for 13–32″ Computer Screens, Full Motion VESA 75x75/100x100 with C-Clamp & Grommet Base, Each Arm Holds 4.4 to 19.8 lbs
  • Compatible with Wide Screens - To ensure compatibility with the dual monitor mount, your each monitor must meet three conditions at the same time: First, computer screens size range: 13 to 32 inches. Second, screen weight range: 4.4 to 19.8 lbs. Third, the back of the monitor screen must have VESA mounting holes with a pitch of 75x75mm or 100x100mm.
  • Regarding the compatibility with desks - Your desk must meet three conditions at the same time: First, desk material: Only wooden desks are recommended, plastic or glass desks cannot be used. Second, desk thickness range: 0.59" - 3.54". Third, the bottom of the desk should not have any cross beams or panels, as this will interfere with installation. We recommend carefully checking that your desk and monitors meets all above conditions before purchasing.
  • Dual C-Clamp Hold - Worried your dual monitors might wobble or slip? Our upgraded base uses a larger platform plus a dual C-clamp structure to lock the dual monitor arm firmly to your desk. Each arm safely keeps your screens steady while you type, click and game—no shaking, no sliding, just a clean and secure setup you can trust every day. It also provides Grommet Mounting installation choice, both options ensure stable and secure fixation for your 0.59" - 3.54" desk.
  • Full-Motion Adjustment For Comfortable View - Pull the screen closer when you’re deep in a spreadsheet, push it back to watch videos, or rotate to portrait for coding — moving everything smoothly with just one hand. The monitor stand offers +85°/-50° tilt, ±90° swivel and 360° rotation. Raise your monitor up to 15.75″ to support a healthy sitting posture. Whether you’re working from home, gaming through the night, or switching between video calls and documents, getting the screens to your natural line of sight helps relieve neck, shoulder and back strain so you can stay focused longer with less fatigue.
  • Keep Your Desk Organized: By lifting both screens off the desktop, this dual monitor stand opens up valuable space for your keyboard, notebook, docking station or a simple, clutter-free work area. Built-in cable management guides wires along the arms, keeping cords out of sight and out of the way. Enjoy a tidy, modern workstation that looks as good as it feels to use.

Is StarkMarkets regulated in the UK?

No. The UK FCA stated that Stark Markets was not authorized to provide financial services in the United Kingdom and warned that customers would not receive FCA-related ombudsman or compensation-scheme protection.

Can I withdraw money from StarkMarkets?

There is no reliable basis for predicting that a withdrawal will succeed. If the firm asks for an additional tax, insurance, unlocking, or verification payment, do not send it. Contact your bank, card issuer, payment provider, and financial regulator instead.

Does a Bulgarian company registration prove StarkMarkets is legitimate?

No. Registration as a company does not authorize forex or investment services. The Bulgarian FSC’s February 2026 list includes Krisimark Ltd among companies not licensed by the commission and associates it with StarkMarkets.

The Bottom Line

Bottom line: Do not deposit with StarkMarkets. Regulatory warnings across multiple jurisdictions, the absence of verifiable authorization, the continued association with Krisimark Ltd in Bulgaria’s 2026 unlicensed-company list, and the poor withdrawal-related reputation make this an unsuitable broker for personal funds. If you have already paid, stop sending money, preserve your records, and contact your payment provider and regulator promptly.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More post from the Money Desk

  1. The Money DeskBlogTheFinanceBase09 OCT 267 minMortgage Escrow FAQs: Taxes, Insurance, Shortages, and Refunds
  2. The Money DeskBlogTheFinanceBase09 OCT 265 minHow Mortgage Escrow Accounts Work and What Homeowners Pay For
  3. The Money DeskBlogTheFinanceBase09 OCT 265 minHow to Read a Stock Chart, Volume and Market-Cap Data
Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You DownFree scan - exact matches
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.