What is GSI Markets？

GSI Markets is a Forex trading broker operated by Media Force Limited, founded in 2013 and registered in the Marshall Islands. It claims to specialize in online Forex trading, converting on a leading FX and CFD broker for clients in more than 120 countries worldwide. Providing services through MetaTrader 4, It offers a demo account. The maximum leverage available is 1:100, and the minimum deposit required is $250, with margin requirements ranging from 0.20% to 5%. Notably, GSI Markets operates without any regulations.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

Diverse Market Instruments: GSI Markets offers a wide range of market instruments, including stocks, cryptocurrencies, indices, forex, and commodities, providing traders with various options for diversification.

Demo Account Availability: Traders can access a demo account, allowing them to practice trading strategies and familiarize themselves with the platform without risking real money.

Multiple Contact Channels: The broker provides multiple contact channels, including seven telephone numbers, email, and other social platforms, making it easier for traders to reach customer support when needed.

Cons:

No Regulation: GSI Markets operates without any regulatory oversight, which is a huge red flag for the safety of funds and the reliability of the broker.

Exposure Labeled as Unable to Withdraw: There are five pieces of exposure labeled as unable to withdraw, which indicates a risk that traders face issues with withdrawing their funds.

Is GIS Markets Safe or Scam？

The most glaring red flag is the complete lack of regulation. This raises significant concerns about the safety of your funds, the fairness of their trading practices, and the potential for scams or manipulative activities.

Furthermore, the existence of exposures labeled as “unable to withdraw” is incredibly alarming. This suggests that some users have encountered difficulties withdrawing their funds, raising the possibility of encountering similar issues yourself.

Market Instruments

GSI Markets offers a wide array of market instruments for traders to engage with, catering to the varying trading preferences and strategies of its clients.

Stocks: You can access shares of publicly traded companies, enabling them to invest in the performance of individual companies.

Cryptocurrencies: The platform offers trading in digital currencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others, allowing traders to participate in the dynamic and evolving cryptocurrency market.

Indices: GSI Markets provides access to major stock market indices, offering exposure to broader market performance.

Forex: The broker facilitates trading in the foreign exchange market, allowing traders to trade currency pairs and take advantage of fluctuations in exchange rates.

Commodities: You can also trade in commodities such as precious metals, energy, and agricultural products, providing diversification opportunities beyond traditional asset classes.

Account Types

GSI Markets offers traders three different live account types: Silver ECN, Gold ECN, and Platinum ECN accounts.

The Silver ECN account requires a minimum deposit of 250 USD and has a withdrawal time of 7 days. To acquire a Silver Account, traders must either trade 300 aggregated lots or reach total deposits of $1,000 to $10,000. To maintain the Silver Account, traders must continue to trade 150 lots quarterly.

The Gold ECN account offers a first deposit bonus of 10% up to 1,000 USD and has a withdrawal time of 3 days. To acquire a Gold Account, traders must either trade 2,000 aggregated lots or reach total account equity of $10,000 to $75,000. Gold account holders must trade a minimum of 600 lots quarterly to keep the account in good standing.

The Platinum ECN account provides a first deposit bonus of 15% up to 2,000 USD and has a withdrawal time of 3 days. To acquire a Platinum Account, traders must either trade 10,000 aggregated lots or reach total deposits of $75,000 and above. The Platinum Account is targeted at traders with higher trading volumes and account sizes.

How to Open a GSI Markets Account？

Step 1: Open an account by going to the broker's website: https://www.gsimarkets.com/.

Step 2: All you have to do is fill in the information in the box that says QUICK START. Once this is done, click on OPEN A REAL ACCOUNT which will take you to a page that says REGISTER ACCOUNT.

Step 3: Fill in your details, create a password, check the terms and conditions box and all other related boxes then click on CREATE MY ACCOUNT.

Step 4: You are now on your home page and can make a deposit online using your credit card. All you need to do is complete the DEPOSIT INFORMATION and click on the DEPOSIT NOW button.

Leverage

GSI Markets offers leverage of up to 1:100 for you. Leverage allows you to control a larger position size with a relatively small amount of capital. For example, with a 1:100 leverage, you can control a position of $10,000 with a deposit of only $100. While leverage can amplify profits, it also increases the risk of losses, as losses are also magnified in proportion to the leverage used.

Spreads & Commissions

GSI Markets distinguishes itself by offering trading with zero commissions. This means that you will not incur additional charges for each trade placed through the platform. However, while there are no commissions, you should consider the impact of spreads on the trading costs, which is not present on the official website.

Trading Platforms

GSI Markets offers the MetaTrader 4 (MT4) trading platform, which is widely regarded as one of the best in the industry. MT4 is known for its user-friendly interface, advanced charting tools, and customizable features. It also offers automated trading capabilities through Expert Advisors (EAs) and a wide range of technical indicators.

Additionally, the GSI Markets mobile app provides traders with access to the mobile version of MT4. While the mobile version may lack some of the features found in the desktop version, it offers several benefits, including increased flexibility and the ability to trade on the go. The mobile app is available for both Android and iOS systems, allowing traders to access their accounts and trade from their smartphones or tablets.

Trading Tools

GSI Markets provides traders with a comprehensive set of trading signals and tools designed to enhance their trading experience and improve decision-making.

• Indicators

Impulse MACD: This indicator combines three moving averages to visually represent market momentum on a chart. It helps traders identify potential buy or sell signals based on the convergence or divergence of these moving averages.

SHI Channel True: This indicator displays dynamic moving channels on a chart. It identifies fractal points in price history, connects them with lines, and draws parallel lines to create channels. You can use these channels to identify potential support and resistance levels.

Stretch Breakout Channel: This indicator helps you identify breakout opportunities by plotting channels based on recent price action. Breakouts above or below these channels may signal potential trading opportunities.

Variation Index: This indicator measures the variation in price movements over a specified period. It helps you gauge the volatility of an asset and can be used to identify potential trend changes.

ZeroLag MACD: This indicator is a modified version of the MACD (Moving Average Convergence Divergence) indicator that aims to reduce lag and provide more timely signals. It can help you identify trend reversals and momentum shifts.

• Economic Calendar

This tool provides you with a schedule of important economic events and announcements that may impact financial markets. It includes key indicators such as GDP releases, interest rate decisions, and employment reports, helping you make informed trading decisions based on fundamental analysis.

• Technical Signals

These signals are generated by technical analysis tools and indicators, such as those mentioned above. They provide insights into potential buy or sell opportunities based on price movements, trends, and other technical factors.

• Calculators

Profit Calculator: This tool helps you calculate potential profits or losses based on their trading position size, entry price, and exit price.

Margin and Pip Calculator: These calculators help you determine the margin required for a trade and calculate the value of a pip, which is the smallest price movement in a currency pair.

• BTC Signals

These signals are specific to Bitcoin (BTC) trading and provide insights into potential buy or sell opportunities in the Bitcoin market. You can use these signals to make informed decisions when trading Bitcoin.

Deposits & Withdrawals

To deposit money into your GSI Markets trading account, you can log in to your account using the email and password you provided during registration. Once logged in, navigate to the Members Area and click on the “Deposit” tab. From the dropdown menu, select your preferred deposit method, which can include Credit Cards, e-Wallets, or Wire Transfers. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the deposit process.

Withdrawing money from your GSI Markets account is also straightforward. Log in to your account and navigate to the Members Area. Click on the “Withdraw” tab to access the withdrawal section. Fill out the withdrawal form with the required information, ensuring that all your verification documentation is in order. Withdrawals will be returned to the credit cards from which the charge was made, and profits above the invested amount will be transferred to your personal bank account. Wire transfers will take up to 7 business days due to intermediary financial processors.

Customer Service

The broker provides multiple contact options, including telephone support with dedicated numbers for various regions.

• +(44) 203 150 1767 (United Kingdom)

• +(55) 213 50 01808 (Brazil)

• +(56) 229 381 559 (Chile)

• +(57) 601 5141319 (Colombia)

• +(502) 237 84653 (Guatemala)

• +(52) 558 421 0153 (Mexico)

• +(507) 833 7744 (Panama)

In addition to telephone support, traders can also contact the customer support team via email at info@gsimarkets.com.

For traders who prefer real-time assistance, GSI Markets offers a live chat feature on their website.

GSI Markets also maintains an active presence on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Google+, and Telegram. These platforms serve as additional channels for traders to interact with the customer support team, stay updated on news and announcements from the broker, and engage with other traders in the community.

Conclusion

GSI Markets provides a range of trading instruments and account options, but there are significant issues that impact your trading experience. The lack of regulatory oversight and reports of exposure labeled as “unable to withdraw” are both red flags that jeopardize your financial security. We advise against using GSI Markets and it is better to choose a broker with a clear track record and regulation from a reputable financial authority.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is GSI Markets regulated？

A: No.

Q: What trading platforms does GSI Markets offer？

A: GSI Markets offers MetaTrader 4, including a desktop version, a web-based version, and a mobile trading app.

Q: What is the minimum deposit required to open an account with GSI Markets？

A: $250.

Q: Does GSI Markets offer a demo account？

A: Yes.

Q: What is the maximum leverage offered by GSI Markets？

A: 1:100.

Q: What are the available methods for deposit and withdrawal？

A: GSI Markets offers various methods for deposit and withdrawal, including Credit Cards, e-Wallets, and Wire Transfers.

Risk Warning

Online trading involves significant risk, and you may lose all of your invested capital. It is not suitable for all traders or investors. Please ensure that you understand the risks involved and note that the information provided in this review may be subject to change due to the constant updating of the company's services and policies.

In addition, the date on which this review was generated may also be an important factor to consider, as information may have changed since then. Therefore, readers are advised to always verify updated information directly with the company before making any decision or taking any action. Responsibility for the use of the information provided in this review rests solely with the reader.

Overview of Interactive Brokers

Interactive Brokers, founded in the United States, offers a wide array of trading assets including stocks, ETFs, forex, bonds, options, and futures, providing traders with various opportunities across global markets.

However, risks have been raised about its legitimacy, with reports of the platform being identified as a suspicious clone. Traders are directly impacted by the platform's regulatory status, influencing oversight, transparency, and legal protections. Adherence to regulatory standards instills confidence among traders regarding the platform's reliability and security, while any suspicion or regulatory ambiguity may undermine trust and deter participation, emphasizing the importance of due diligence.

Is Interactive Brokers legit or a scam？

Interactive Brokers is identified as Suspicious Clone under various regulatory bodies such as the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the United Kingdom, the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI), and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).

However, the presence of “Suspicious Clone” designations in some regions suggests potential regulatory risks. Traders on the platform are directly impacted by the regulatory status, as it influences the level of oversight, transparency, and legal protections afforded to their investments.

Adherence to regulatory standards instills confidence among traders regarding the platform's reliability and security, while any suspicion or regulatory ambiguity may undermine trust and deter participation. Thus, traders are likely to favor jurisdictions where Interactive Brokers maintains clear and reputable regulatory standing, ensuring a safer trading environment.

What are Clone Brokers？

The prevalence of clone brokers is increasingly alarming, as deceptive entities exploit the names of reputable firms to lure unsuspecting clients into believing they are trading with regulated forex firms.

These fraudulent companies go to great lengths, even utilizing the license numbers of legitimate brokers, to deceive traders into opening accounts with them. Remaining vigilant is paramount to avoid falling prey to such scams. Additionally, these unscrupulous entities resort to aggressive tactics, akin to boiler room operations, pressuring clients into opening accounts or increasing their deposits.

It's crucial to heed the adage: if something sounds too good to be true, it likely is. Traders must exercise caution and conduct thorough research before engaging with any brokerage firm to safeguard their investments and financial security.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Wide range of tradable assets: Interactive Brokers offers an extensive selection of tradable assets, including stocks, ETFs, forex, bonds, options, and futures. This diversity provides traders with ample opportunities to diversify their portfolios and explore various investment strategies, catering to different risk appetites and objectives.

• Access to global markets: The platform grants users access to a broad range of global markets, enabling them to trade securities and currencies from around the world. This global reach allows traders to capitalize on international market trends, economic developments, and geopolitical events, enhancing their trading flexibility and potential for profit.

Cons:

• Identified as Suspicious Clone: Some users have reported instances where Interactive Brokers was identified as a suspicious clone, potentially raising risks about the platform's legitimacy and trustworthiness. Such allegations can undermine user confidence and deter participation in trading activities.

• Limited customer support options: Interactive Brokers may offer limited options for customer support, which can lead to delays in addressing user inquiries, resolving issues, or providing assistance when needed. This lack of robust support channels may frustrate users and hinder their overall trading experience.

• Potential for technical glitches: Like any online platform, Interactive Brokers is susceptible to technical glitches or system failures, which can disrupt trading activities, cause delays in order execution, or lead to inaccuracies in account information. These technical issues may impede users' ability to trade effectively and impact their overall experience on the platform.

• Risk of exposure to scams: Users may face the risk of exposure to scams or fraudulent activities associated with Interactive Brokers, such as clone brokers attempting to deceive traders. Falling victim to such schemes can result in financial losses and damage to one's reputation, highlighting the importance of vigilance and due diligence when engaging with the platform.

Market Instruments

Interactive Brokers offers a wide range of tradable financial instruments on its platform.

Traders can access a variety of assets including Stocks, ETFs, Forex, Funds, Bonds, Options, Futures, CFDs, Cryptocurrencies, Warrants, and Structured Products.

This extensive selection provides traders with opportunities to diversify their investment portfolios and pursue different trading strategies across global markets.

With access to such a broad array of instruments, traders have the flexibility to capitalize on market opportunities and manage risk effectively.

Deposit & Withdrawal

Interactive Brokers offers a variety of payment methods to fund your account:

• Bank wire transfer: This is the most common and preferred method. It's free for most currencies.

• ACH transfer: This is another electronic transfer option available for US accounts. It's also free.

• Check: You can mail a check to Interactive Brokers. However, there may be processing fees and delays associated with this method.

• Wire transfer from another brokerage: You can transfer funds from another brokerage account to your Interactive Brokers account. This may be subject to fees from both brokers.

• Bill pay: This option is available for US accounts only. It allows you to pay your Interactive Brokers account from your bank's online bill pay service.

• Third-party deposits: Interactive Brokers generally discourages and rejects third-party deposits due to potential fraud and money laundering risks.

There is no minimum deposit required to open an Interactive Brokers account. This makes it a good option for beginners who want to start with a small amount of money.

Customer Support

Interactive Brokers provides the following contact information for customer support:

1. Twitter: @IBKR

2. Facebook: Interactive Brokers

3. Instagram: Interactive Brokers

4. YouTube: Interactive Brokers

5. LinkedIn: Interactive Brokers

These social media platforms serve as channels for reaching out to Interactive Brokers for support and assistance. However, Interactive Brokers' customer support lacks efficiency and responsiveness. Traders often encounter significant delays in receiving assistance, with support tickets remaining unresolved for extended periods. Communication channels such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn are available, but their effectiveness in addressing customer risks is questionable.

Exposure

Users have reported a single instance of exposure related to a pyramid scheme complaint, which unveiled a potential scam on the Interactive Brokers platform.

The complaint alleges that the platform induced clients to participate in activities, promising withdrawal options upon event completion. However, upon attempting to withdraw profits, users encountered obstacles, including unexpected tax requirements not deducted from the platform. The inability to access funds and unresponsive customer service exacerbates the situation for affected users. Such exposure to fraudulent activities undermines trust and confidence in the platform, potentially dissuading traders from engaging in further transactions.

Conclusion

This instance of Interactive Brokers is suspected to be a clone operated by a company known as Interactive Brokers Group, Inc. Notably, this particular iteration of Interactive Brokers lacks regulation, posing potential risks for traders. Therefore, it is advisable for traders to refrain from engaging with this broker.