ICS protection
What is the Investor Compensation Scheme (ICS)?
The Investor Compensation Scheme (ICS) protects investors if an authorised investment firm is put into liquidation or cannot meet investor claims. The scheme is run by the Investor Compensation Company Limited. It does not cover losses from bad investment advice, poor management or market downturns. For more details, visit the ICCL’s website.
How ICS protection works
The Investor Compensation Scheme (ICS) is administered by the Investor Compensation Company Limited. The ICS is a scheme that protects and compensates investors if:
- An investment firm authorised by the Central Bank of Ireland is put into liquidation, or
- The Central Bank of Ireland determines the firm cannot meet investor claims
What investments are covered by the ICS?
Investments covered under the ICS include:
- Public and private company shares
- Units in collective investment funds
- Life insurance policies (including unit-linked funds)
- Non-life insurance policies
- Tracker bonds
- Futures and options
What does the ICS not cover?
The ICS does not pay compensation if:
- You lose money due to bad investment advice
- Your investment is poorly managed
- Your investment performs poorly due to market or economic conditions
If you experience any of these issues, consider making a complaint to the investment firm.
How much am I covered for?
The ICS covers 90% of your net loss, up to a maximum of €20,000.
What if my investment is not covered?
If your investment is not covered under the ICS, it may be covered under the Deposit Guarantee Scheme (DGS). If your investment is eligible under both schemes, the Central Bank of Ireland will decide which scheme pays compensation.
For more information and to check your eligibility, visit the ICCL’s website.
