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 contained in this article is for general information purposes only.

General Information

What is NordFX？

NordFX is a forex broker that offers over 30 currency pairs, bitcoin, other cryptocurrencies, gold and silver for your personal investment and trading options. It was established in 2008 and is registered in Vanuatu. NordFX provides online trading platforms and free training. The MetaTrader platforms also provide automated trading and market signals. However, it currently does not have any valid regulation.

In the following article, we will analyze the characteristics of this broker from various aspects, providing you with simple and organized information. If you are interested, please read on. At the end of the article, we will also briefly make a conclusion so that you can understand the broker's characteristics at a glance.

Pros & Cons

NordFX offers a wide range of financial instruments, providing traders with diverse trading opportunities. The availability of MetaTrader 4 across multiple devices enhances the convenience and accessibility of trading.

However, it is important to note that NordFX is an unregulated broker, which introduces higher risks to traders, especially regarding fund management and security. There have been reports of withdrawal issues, indicating potential challenges in this area.

NordFX Alternative Brokers

There are many alternative brokers to NordFX depending on the specific needs and preferences of the trader. Some popular options include:

• IC Markets - Best broker on the market with fast support and flawless spreads and order execution.

• Roboforex - Fast money deposit and withdrawal with similar spreads and commission for Forex and gold as other brokers but on stocks roboforex is King.

• AvaTrade - Good trading conditions overall with multiple CFD trading instruments and high number of forex pairs.

Ultimately, the best broker for an individual trader will depend on their specific trading style, preferences, and needs.

Is NordFX Safe or Scam？

NordFX does not hold any valid regulatory licenses at this stage and its Vanuatu Financial Services Commission (VFSA) license is revoked and Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CYSEC, License No. 209/13) license is a suspicious clone.

It is important to note that trading with an unregulated broker can be risky as there is no guarantee that the broker will act in the best interest of the trader. Regulated brokers are required to follow strict rules and regulations which are designed to protect traders from fraudulent activities.

Market Instruments

NordFX provides a diverse range of market instruments for traders to choose from. They offer a selection of FX pairs, allowing traders to participate in the foreign exchange market and take advantage of currency fluctuations.

Additionally, NordFX provides access to trading metals, such as gold and silver, offering opportunities for investors interested in the precious metals market. Cryptocurrencies are also available for trading, allowing traders to speculate on the price movements of popular digital assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and more.

Furthermore, NordFX offers CFDs on indices and stocks, enabling traders to trade popular global indices and individual stocks. Lastly, oil trading is available, allowing traders to participate in the energy markets by speculating on the price of crude oil.

Accounts

NordFX provides traders with a variety of account options to suit their individual needs. They offer demo accounts, allowing traders to practice their strategies and familiarize themselves with the trading platform without risking real money.

For live trading, NordFX offers three main account types: Fix, Pro, and Zero. The Fix account has a low minimum deposit requirement of $10, making it accessible to traders with smaller capital. The Pro account requires a minimum deposit of $250 and provides additional features and benefits, such as lower spreads and access to a broader range of trading instruments. The Zero account, with a minimum deposit of $500, is designed for more advanced traders who require tight spreads and direct market access.

Leverage

NordFX offers traders competitive leverage options, allowing them to amplify their trading positions. With leverage of up to 1:1000, traders can control larger positions in the market with a smaller amount of capital. This high leverage enables traders to potentially generate higher profits from successful trades.

However, it is important to note that while leverage can magnify profits, it also increases the risk of losses. Traders should exercise caution and carefully manage their risk when utilizing high leverage.

Spreads & Commissions

NordFX offers competitive spreads and commissions across its different account types. The Fix account has a spread starting from 2 pips, making it suitable for traders who prefer fixed spreads. The Pro account offers a tighter spread starting from 0.9 pips, appealing to traders who seek lower transaction costs. However, it's important to note that the Zero account stands out with a spread starting from 0.0 pips, providing traders with the potential for better pricing and reduced trading costs.

While the Fix and Pro accounts do not charge any commissions, the Zero account requires a commission of 0.0035% per trade on each side. Traders should consider their trading preferences and strategies to choose the account type that best aligns with their needs.

Below is a comparison table about spreads and commissions charged by different brokers:

Please note that the spreads and commissions may vary depending on the specific account types and trading conditions offered by each broker. It's advisable to refer to the official websites or contact the brokers directly for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Trading Platforms

NordFX provides traders with the popular and widely recognized MetaTrader4 (MT4) platform, available for Windows, Mac, iPhone, and Android devices. MT4 is known for its user-friendly interface, advanced charting tools, and a wide range of technical indicators and analysis tools. With MT4, traders can access real-time market data, place trades, set stop-loss and take-profit levels, and manage their positions efficiently.

The platform also supports automated trading through expert advisors (EAs), allowing traders to implement and test their own trading strategies. Additionally, NordFX offers mobile versions of MT4, enabling traders to stay connected and manage their trades on the go.

Overall, NordFX's provision of MT4 across multiple devices ensures convenience, flexibility, and a seamless trading experience for its clients.

See the trading platform comparison table below:

Trading Tools

NordFX offers a range of useful trading tools designed to enhance the trading experience and provide valuable market insights. Traders can access various analysis tools, including technical analysis reports and market news updates, which can help them make informed trading decisions. The Economic Calendar feature keeps traders updated on important economic events and their potential impact on the markets. NordFX also offers Trading Signals, which provide valuable trading ideas and recommendations generated by experienced analysts.

For traders who require uninterrupted trading, NordFX offers Virtual Private Server (VPS) hosting, ensuring reliable and high-speed trading execution. Additionally, the Trader's Calculator helps traders calculate position sizes, profit/loss, and other important trading parameters. Lastly, the Currency Converter tool allows for quick and easy conversion of currencies. These trading tools provided by NordFX aim to empower traders with valuable information, analysis, and resources to support their trading strategies and decision-making processes.

Deposits & Withdrawals

NordFX offers a variety of convenient deposit and withdrawal options to cater to the diverse needs of its clients. Traders can fund their accounts using Bank Transfer, Bank Cards, Online Payment Systems, Online Exchange Services, and Internal Transfer.

Base Currencies:

USD, EUR, CNY, IDR, GBP, VND, THB, PHP

NordFX minimum deposit vs other brokers

The minimum deposit requirement is set at a low amount of $10, making it accessible for traders of different levels.

Most deposits are free of charge and processed instantly, allowing traders to quickly start trading. Withdrawals are typically processed within 1 business day, ensuring efficient access to funds. However, it's important to note that withdrawal fees may vary depending on the chosen withdrawal method.

Customer Service

NordFX places a strong emphasis on customer support and offers multiple channels for traders to get in touch with their team. Clients can utilize the online chat feature on their website for immediate assistance, or they can opt to contact NordFX through phone or email. Additionally, traders have the option to send messages online for any inquiries or concerns they may have. NordFX also maintains an active presence on various social media platforms, including Telegram, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.

Overall, NordFX's customer service is considered reliable and responsive, with various options available for traders to seek assistance.

Note: These pros and cons are subjective and may vary depending on the individual's experience with NordFX's customer service.

User Exposure on WikiFX

On our website, you can see that some reports of unable to withdraw. Traders are encouraged to carefully review the available information and consider the risks associated with trading on an unregulated platform. You can check our platform for information before trading. If you find such fraudulent brokers or have been a victim of one, please let us know in the Exposure section, we would appreciate it and our team of experts will do everything possible to solve the problem for you.

Education

NordFX provides a range of educational resources to support traders in their journey. They offer comprehensive information and resources on various topics, including Forex trading, through their dedicated Forex section. Traders can access a glossary that helps them understand key trading terms and concepts. Additionally, NordFX has a learning center that offers educational materials, tutorials, and guides to enhance traders' knowledge and skills. They also provide useful articles that cover market analysis, trading strategies, and other relevant topics.

Conclusion

In conclusion, NordFX offers a wide range of financial instruments, competitive trading conditions, and multiple trading platforms, making it an attractive choice for traders. However, it is important to note that NordFX is an unregulated broker, which may raise concerns regarding the safety of funds and overall credibility. Traders should exercise caution and carefully evaluate the associated risks before deciding to trade with NordFX. It is recommended to conduct thorough research, seek additional information, and consider alternative regulated brokers that provide stronger regulatory oversight and investor protection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Overview

FXCL Markets Ltd operates from St. Vincent and the Grenadines and was previously regulated by the Vanuatu Financial Services Commission, although its license has been revoked. The company offers a range of trading account types with varying leverage options and spreads, and it utilizes the MetaTrader 4 (MT4) platform for trading across multiple devices. Tradable assets include Forex, Precious Metals, Commodities, Fund Management, Clearing, Primary Brokering, and other legal activities. While specific details like the founding year, minimum deposit requirements, and availability of demo or Islamic accounts are not provided, the broker offers email-based customer support and various payment methods. Educational resources include a Forex glossary and materials for both beginner and advanced traders.

Regulation

Revoked.

FXCL MARKETS LTD previously held a Retail Forex License regulated by the Vanuatu Financial Services Commission (VFSC), permitting them to offer retail forex trading services. However, the license was revoked at an unspecified date. License revocation typically occurs due to non-compliance with regulatory requirements or financial misconduct. When a license is revoked, the entity is no longer authorized to provide regulated services, and they must cease their operations in that specific area. For detailed information about the revocation and its implications, further inquiry with the VFSC or additional sources is advisable.

Pros and Cons

FXCL Markets offers a range of advantages, such as diverse trading instruments, multiple account types, and the popular MT4 platform. They also provide various payment methods and accessible customer support. However, concerns arise due to the revocation of their previous regulatory license and limited information on their history and educational resources. Traders should exercise caution and conduct thorough research when considering this broker.

Market Instruments

Based on the information provided, the broker offers a variety of trading instruments that encompass several categories, including Foreign Exchange (Forex), Precious Metals, Commodities, Fund Management, Clearing, Primary Brokering, and other legal activities. Here's a description of each category of market instruments offered by the broker:

1. Foreign Exchange (Forex): Forex trading involves the exchange of one currency for another, and it is one of the most popular forms of trading. In this category, the broker likely provides a wide range of currency pairs for trading, allowing clients to speculate on the price movements of different currencies, such as EUR/USD, GBP/JPY, and more.

2. Precious Metals: Precious metals trading typically includes instruments like gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. Traders can buy or sell these metals to profit from changes in their market prices. Precious metals are often considered safe-haven assets and are used for diversification and hedging purposes.

3. Commodities: Commodities trading involves various physical goods like oil, natural gas, agricultural products, and more. These commodities are traded in futures and spot markets, and traders can speculate on price fluctuations. Commodity trading can be attractive for those looking to diversify their portfolios.

4. Fund Management: Fund management implies that the broker may offer services related to managing investment funds. This could include portfolio management, asset allocation, and investment advisory services to help clients grow their investments.

5. Clearing: Clearing services are often associated with the settlement and clearing of financial transactions, ensuring the smooth and secure transfer of assets between buyers and sellers. Brokers may offer clearing services to facilitate trading activities.

6. Primary Brokering: Primary brokering typically refers to the intermediary role in trading securities. This may involve connecting buyers and sellers in various markets, such as stock exchanges or fixed-income markets, to execute trades.

7. Other Legal Activities: This category is quite broad and could encompass a range of financial and legal services. It may include activities related to regulatory compliance, legal advisory, or other financial services permitted by the regulatory authorities.

Please note that the specific instruments offered by the broker within each category may vary, and clients should refer to the broker's offerings and terms and conditions for precise details on available trading options.

Account Types

FXCL offers three tiered trading account types, each catering to the diverse needs and preferences of traders. These account types are designed to provide flexibility in terms of leverage, spreads, and trading conditions. Let's explore each account type in detail.

1. Fixed Spread Account

1. Account Currency: This account is available in US cent, EU cent, MYR cent, and THB cent for Cent accounts. For Standard accounts, it supports USD, EUR, MYR, THB, and NGN.

2. Leverage: Cent accounts offer leverage up to 1:1000, while Standard accounts offer leverage up to 1:500.

3. Spread: Both Cent and Standard accounts have fixed spreads, starting from 1 pip. The full spread list is available for reference.

4. Margin Call/Stop Out Level: Both account types share a margin call level of 30% and a stop-out level of 10%.

5. Execution: Instant execution is provided for both account types.

6. Position Size: Cent accounts support positions ranging from 0.01 to 200.00 lots, while Standard accounts allow positions from 0.01 to 2.00 standard lots.

7. Max. Number of Positions Online: Cent accounts allow up to 150 positions, while Standard accounts permit up to 100.

8. Commission: There is no commission for trading in either account type.

9. Quotes: Both account types offer basic quotes with 4 digits after the comma.

10. Swap Interest: Swap-free options are available for traders who require them.

11. Hedging Policy: Hedging is permitted except between swap and swap-free accounts.

12. Locked-Up Margin for Hedged Positions: There is no locked-up margin for hedged positions in either account type.

13. Strategy Policy: Generally, there are no limits on trading strategies for both account types.

2. Floating Spread Account

1. Account Currency: This account type supports USD, MYR, THB for Start accounts, US cent, MYR cent, THB cent for Interbank Cent accounts, USD, MYR, THB, NGN for Interbank Standard accounts, and USD for ECN Pro accounts.

2. Leverage: The leverage varies, with Start accounts offering up to 1:2000, Interbank Cent and Interbank Standard accounts offering up to 1:500, and ECN Pro accounts offering up to 1:300 for Forex and metals, up to 1:100 for indices, and up to 1:10 for crypto.

3. Spread: All these account types feature floating spreads, with different starting points. Detailed spread lists are available for reference.

4. Margin Call/Stop Out Level: Margin call and stop-out levels vary between account types, offering flexibility to traders.

5. Execution: Market execution is provided for all floating spread account types.

6. Position Size: Position sizes vary across account types and asset classes, providing options for different trading strategies.

7. Max. Number of Positions Online: The maximum number of online positions varies, allowing traders to choose their preferred trading volume.

8. Commission: Commission structures differ for each account type and asset class.

9. Quotes: All floating spread account types offer extended quotes with 5 digits after the comma.

10. Swap Interest: Swap-free options are available, and swap interest varies based on the specific account type and asset class.

11. Hedging Policy: Hedging is generally allowed, except between swap and swap-free accounts.

12. Locked-Up Margin for Hedged Positions: There is no locked-up margin for hedged positions in any of these account types.

13. Strategy Policy: The broker typically allows various trading strategies, including scalping and algorithmic trading, particularly in ECN Pro accounts.

3. Special Accounts

1. Account Currency: Both account types are denominated in USD.

2. Leverage: Leverage of up to 1:1000 is available for both Live Contest and Volume Cash accounts.

3. Spread: These accounts offer floating spreads, and detailed spread lists are provided.

4. Margin Call/Stop Out Level: Both account types share a margin call level of 70% and a stop-out level of 50%.

5. Execution: Automatic Market Execution is applied to both account types.

6. Position Size: Position size ranges are suitable for Forex and metals trading.

7. Max. Number of Positions Online: Traders can maintain a maximum of 50 positions online in these accounts.

8. Commission: There is a commission of $1.5 per lot for Forex and metals trading in both Live Contest and Volume Cash accounts.

9. Quotes: Both account types offer extended quotes with 5 digits after the comma.

10. Swap Interest: Swap-free options are available for traders who require them.

11. Hedging Policy: Hedging is allowed in both account types, except between swap and swap-free accounts.

12. Locked-Up Margin for Hedged Positions: There is no locked-up margin for hedged positions in these accounts.

13. Strategy Policy: Generally, there are no limits on trading strategies for both Live Contest and Volume Cash accounts.

Leverage

A leverage ratio of 1:2000 means for every $1 you deposit, the broker provides you with up to $2000 in trading funds. It amplifies potential profits but also increases risk, so it's crucial to trade responsibly and be aware of market movements to avoid losses. Leverage availability varies among brokers and markets, and it's essential to understand your broker's specific terms and conditions.

Spreads & Commissions

1. Fixed Spread Accounts:

• Cent Account: Fixed spreads starting from 1 pip, no commission.

• Standard Account: Fixed spreads starting from 1 pip, no commission.

1. Floating Spread Accounts:

• Start Account: Floating spreads, no commission.

• Interbank Cent Account: Floating spreads starting from 1.1 pip, no commission.

• Interbank Standard Account: Floating spreads starting from 1.1 pip, no commission.

• ECN Pro Account: Floating spreads, commissions vary ($3 per lot for Forex and metals; 0.15% per lot for cryptocurrencies).

1. Special Accounts:

• Live Contest Account: Floating spreads, commission of $1.5 per lot for Forex and metals.

• Volume Cash Account: Floating spreads, commission of $1.5 per lot for Forex and metals.

This summary provides a clear overview of the spreads and commissions associated with each account type, helping traders make informed choices based on their trading preferences.

Deposit & Withdrawal

Depositing Funds:

When you open your trading account, you can easily deposit funds directly from your Trader's Cabinet, where you'll find step-by-step instructions. The broker offers several payment methods for depositing funds:

1. Online Bank (Paytrust): This local payment method allows deposits from the main banks of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam. It provides instant deposits.

2. Instant Deposits via 'H2P': You can make instant deposits from the main local banks of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam using the 'H2P' payment system. FXCL covers the fees for deposits made through this method.

3. Crypto (AlphaPo): This is an instant payment system with automatic conversion from BTC and USDT to USD and EUR. It offers an easy deposit procedure.

4. PerfectMoney: You can fund your PerfectMoney account directly by wire transfer or via exchangers. It's an instant payment system with low fees.

5. Local Deposit: This convenient, low-fee payment method allows you to work with your local currency through internal transfers to popular national banks. Processing of Local Deposits takes up to 1 business day.

6. FasaPay: A known payment service that guarantees quick and safe transactions, available in USD and IDR for Indonesia and in USD for Malaysia. FXCL provides full fee coverage for FasaPay deposits.

7. Dragonpay: Allows deposits in PHP via online banking and ATMs for clients from the Philippines.

Withdrawing Funds:

To withdraw your funds, you can log in to your Trader's Cabinet and make a withdrawal request, which will be processed within 1 business day. Please note that you need to verify your profile before withdrawing funds. The withdrawal methods available include:

1. Online Bank (Paytrust): This method processes withdrawals to the main banks of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam.

2. Local Payments via 'H2P': Withdrawals to the main local banks of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam can be made using the 'H2P' payment system.

3. Crypto (AlphaPo): An instant payment system with automatic BTC to USD and EUR conversion.

4. PerfectMoney: You can withdraw funds directly via wire transfer or exchangers if you funded your PerfectMoney account with a Credit Card or other e-currencies. It offers low fees.

5. Local Deposit: Similar to the deposit process, this method allows low-fee withdrawals in your local currency through internal transfers to popular national banks.

6. FasaPay: Known for quick and safe transactions, available in USD and IDR for Indonesia and in USD for Malaysia. Withdrawal fees for FasaPay are very low.

7. Dragonpay: Enables withdrawals in PHP via online banking and ATMs for clients from the Philippines.

It's important to follow some basic rules when making requests:

• Third-party transactions are not accepted.

• Deposit methods on the same account cannot be mixed.

• Withdrawal methods can be mixed, and the broker may cover payment fees as part of a promotional campaign.

• The limits for fee coverage are $500 for deposits and $100 for withdrawals per trader per month.

• The company retains the right to apply reverse compensation fees, and the fee may be deducted from available funds across the client's accounts.

In summary, this broker offers a variety of payment methods for both depositing and withdrawing funds, catering to traders from different regions and preferences. The process is user-friendly and ensures the security of transactions.

Trading Platforms

This broker provides the highly popular MetaTrader 4 (MT4) trading platform, trusted by millions of traders worldwide. MT4 is available for various operating systems, including Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and via a web terminal or the AppGallery for Android devices.

To install MT4 on Windows, traders can download the fxcl4setup.exe file and initiate the installation process by clicking on it. Accepting the License Agreement starts the automatic installation, and users can also choose to save the installation file for later use. Importantly, this download and installation are entirely free.

For uninstalling MT4 on Windows, users can access the Control Panel, select “Add or Remove Programs” (or “Programs and Features” in Windows 7), locate “MetaTrader – FXClearing,” and confirm the uninstallation.

Additionally, useful documentation is available, including the “MT4 User Guide” for platform features and the “FXCL Markets End-User License Agreement (EULA)” for legal terms.

In summary, this broker offers the widely trusted MetaTrader 4 (MT4) platform, accessible across various devices and operating systems. MT4 is known for its user-friendly interface and robust trading capabilities, making it a preferred choice for traders of all levels.

Customer Support

Customer Support at this broker is easily accessible through various means, providing traders with multiple options to address their inquiries or concerns.

Contact Options:

1. Email Support: Traders can reach out to the broker by sending an email. The required contact details include your name, email address, MT4 Account number, and the nature of your inquiry or message. This method allows for detailed communication and documentation of queries.

2. Registered Address: The broker provides its registered address as Suite 305, Griffith Corporate Center, P.O. Box 1510, Beachmont, Kingstown, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. While this address is primarily for official purposes, it can serve as a reference point.

3. Email Addresses: The broker offers specific email addresses for different purposes, such as general support inquiries via support@fxclearing.com and bonus-related requests via rebate@fxclearing.com. This segmentation allows for efficient handling of various types of requests.

Customer-Centric Approach:

The broker's customer support team aims to provide timely and helpful assistance to traders. Whether it's inquiries about trading, account management, technical issues, or bonus-related matters, traders can expect a dedicated response based on the nature of their query.

The provision of specific email addresses for different types of requests ensures that inquiries are directed to the appropriate department, streamlining the support process. This tailored approach allows for more efficient and effective customer service.

In summary, this broker offers a customer support system designed to meet the diverse needs of traders. With multiple contact options and specialized email addresses, traders can easily reach out for assistance and expect a customer-centric approach to addressing their queries and concerns.

Educational Resources

FXCL Markets offers a robust array of educational resources to support traders at all levels. These resources include:

1. Forex Glossary: FXCL Markets provides a comprehensive Forex glossary, offering traders valuable definitions and terminology essential for their trading journey.

2. Market Analysis Overview for Beginners: Tailored for novice traders, this overview introduces the fundamental concepts of market analysis, encompassing both fundamental and technical aspects.

3. Analysis Theory: FXCL Markets recognizes the importance of proper market analysis. Their educational materials delve into the intricacies of fundamental and technical analysis, empowering traders to make informed decisions.

In essence, FXCL Markets' educational resources cover the essentials, making it a valuable hub for traders seeking to enhance their trading knowledge and skills. Explore these resources further on the FXCL Markets Education page.

Summary

FXCL Markets is a Forex broker offering various trading instruments across categories like Foreign Exchange (Forex), Precious Metals, Commodities, Fund Management, Clearing, Primary Brokering, and more. Traders can choose from three account types, each with distinct features to cater to their preferences. The broker provides the popular MetaTrader 4 (MT4) trading platform, accessible on multiple devices. Traders can deposit and withdraw funds through various methods, making transactions easy and secure. FXCL Markets places emphasis on customer support, offering multiple contact options and specialized email addresses for inquiries. Additionally, they provide a range of educational resources to support traders at all levels, including a Forex glossary and market analysis materials. It's important to note that their previous regulatory license has been revoked, and traders should exercise caution.

FAQs

Q1: What is FXCL Markets？

A1: FXCL Markets is a brokerage firm that offers online trading services in various financial markets, including Forex, Precious Metals, Commodities, and more.

Q2: Is FXCL Markets regulated？

A2: FXCL Markets previously held a retail forex license regulated by the Vanuatu Financial Services Commission (VFSC), but the license was revoked. Traders should conduct further research to understand the implications of this revocation.

Q3: What trading platforms does FXCL Markets offer？

A3: FXCL Markets provides the MetaTrader 4 (MT4) trading platform, available for different operating systems, including Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and web-based.

Q4: What are the account types at FXCL Markets？

A4: FXCL Markets offers three types of accounts: Fixed Spread, Floating Spread, and Special Accounts, each designed to cater to specific trading preferences and conditions.

Q5: How can I contact FXCL Markets' customer support？

A5: You can contact FXCL Markets' customer support by sending an email to support@fxclearing.com for general inquiries or rebate@fxclearing.com for bonus-related requests. Additionally, you can find their registered address in St. Vincent and the Grenadines for reference.