Catalysts suitable for use in reforming hydrocarbons have a halogen
promoter and a plurality of dispersed nanocatalyst particles supported on
a solid support. The dispersed nanocatalyst particles are manufactured
using a dispersing agent to control the size and/or crystal face exposure
of the particles. The controlled size and dispersion of the nanocatalyst
particles allows the reforming catalyst to be loaded with significantly
less halogen promoter while still maintaining or increasing the
catalyst's reforming performance. The catalysts of the present invention
have shown improved C.sub.5+ production with the significantly reduced
levels of halogen promoter.