# IBs and FCMs

[Architect](https://docs.architect.co/user-guide/about-us/our-licenses) is regulated as an Independent Introducing Broker. [As described by the National Futures Association](https://www.nfa.futures.org/registration-membership/who-has-to-register/ib.html): An introducing broker (IB) is an individual or organization that solicits or accepts orders to buy or sell futures contracts, commodity options, retail off-exchange forex contracts, or swaps but does not accept money or other assets from customers to support these orders.

Architect partners with a variety of Futures Commission Merchants (FCMs) who will hold your account and funds. [As described by the National Futures Association](https://www.nfa.futures.org/registration-membership/who-has-to-register/fcm.html): A futures commission merchant (FCM) is an entity that solicits or accepts orders to buy or sell futures contracts, options on futures, retail off-exchange forex contracts or swaps, and accepts money or other assets from customers to support such orders.