As an experienced trader who prioritizes security and due diligence, my evaluation of Akatsuki is shaped by its regulatory status, operational history, and market transparency. Akatsuki is regulated by Japan's Financial Services Agency (FSA), which provides a foundational level of oversight that I personally view as a baseline requirement for considering any broker. Having an office physically verified in Japan also adds a measure of legitimacy for me, as this shows real, on-the-ground presence, not just an online facade. However, I exercise caution because Akatsuki's suite of tradable products appears quite limited—primarily focusing on investment trusts, stocks, and bonds, without offering forex or popular CFD instruments that active retail traders, like myself, often seek. The fee structure, particularly for foreign stocks (up to 16.5%), seems high compared to industry norms, making cost-effectiveness a concern. What raises my caution further is the lack of detailed trading information, minimal customer support options, and few third-party user reviews, which complicates the process of substantiating their reliability. For me, transparency and track record are critical. While Akatsuki's regulation and long history are positives, these factors alone are not sufficient for me to consider it my broker of choice unless their offerings match my trading needs and I can access consistent, clear communication and support. I would urge other traders to exercise similar caution: always evaluate both regulatory credentials and practical trading conditions before making a commitment.