General Information

Santander UK is a large retail and commercial bank based in the UK and a wholly-owned subsidiary of the major global bank Banco Santander. It is registered in England and Wales, authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority, and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. It manages its affairs autonomously, with its own local management team, responsible solely for its performance. It has its origins in three constituent companies—Abbey National, Alliance & Leicester and Bradford & Bingley—all former mutual building societies. It is one of the leading personal financial services companies in the United Kingdom, and one of the largest providers of mortgages and savings in the United Kingdom.

Regulation

Santander UK Plc is a regulated institution under the jurisdiction of the United Kingdom's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) with License No. 106054. It holds a Market Making (MM) license type and has been regulated since December 1, 2001. The institution operates with the license type of “No Sharing.” You can contact them via email at customerservices@santander.co.uk and find more information on their website: https://www.santander.co.uk/. The regulatory status does not specify an expiry date, and Santander UK Plc is located at 2 Triton Square, Regent's Place, London NW1 3AN, UNITED KINGDOM, with a phone number of 448003897000. Certified documents related to their regulatory status are not provided in the information provided.

Pros and Cons

Santander offers a wide range of financial products and services to cater to diverse customer needs. However, it's essential to consider both the advantages and disadvantages when evaluating their offerings.

Pros:

1. Comprehensive Product Range: Santander provides a diverse selection of banking, investment, insurance, and borrowing options, allowing customers to find suitable solutions for their financial goals.

2. Accessible Customer Support: Customers can easily reach Santander's support through telephone, live chat, or the ATM/Branch Locator. The extended hours of operation and accessibility options accommodate various needs.

3. Regulated Institution: Santander is regulated by the UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), providing customers with confidence in their financial stability and adherence to industry standards.

Cons:

1. Monthly Fees: Some of Santander's current accounts come with monthly fees, which may not be ideal for individuals seeking fee-free options.

2. Complexity: With numerous products and services, navigating Santander's offerings can be overwhelming for some customers who may prefer simpler banking solutions.

3. Eligibility Criteria: Eligibility criteria apply to certain products, such as personal loans, which may limit access to individuals who do not meet specific income or credit requirements.

Here is a table summarizing the pros and cons of Santander:

Market Instruments

The Santander UKs segments include Retail Banking, Corporate & Commercial Banking and Corporate & Investment Banking. The Retail Banking segment offers a range of products and financial services to individuals and small businesses, through a network of branches and automated teller machines (ATMs), as well as through telephony, digital, mobile and intermediary channels. The Corporate & Commercial Banking segment offers a range of products and financial services include loans, bank accounts, deposits, treasury services, trade and asset finance for small medium enterprises (SME) and corporate customers. The Corporate & Investment Banking segment serves corporate clients and financial institutions.

Here's a summary of their products:

1. Current Accounts:

• Santander Edge Up Current Account:

• Earn cashback on selected household bills, supermarket, and travel costs.

• Earn interest on credit balances up to £25,000.

• Requires funding the account with £1,500 each month and setting up 2 active Direct Debits.

• No charges for using the debit card outside the UK.

• £5 monthly fee.

• Santander Edge Current Account:

• Earn cashback on selected household bills at supermarkets and travel spend.

• Access to an optional savings account with exclusive rates.

• Requires funding the account with £500 each month and setting up 2 active Direct Debits.

• No charges for using the debit card outside the UK.

• £3 monthly fee.

• Everyday Current Account:

• Simple and straightforward account with no monthly fee.

• 1|2|3 Student Current Account:

• Free 16-25 railcard for four years.

• Interest-free overdraft of £1,500 for the first 3 years of studies.

• Requires regular deposits of at least £500 every 4 months.

• 1|2|3 Mini Current Account:

• Designed to help children and young people learn money management.

• Offers interest on balances at certain thresholds.

• Choice of contactless debit card or cash card.

• Basic Current Account:

• Suitable for those with poor credit history or newcomers to the UK.

1. Mortgages:

• Services for first-time buyers, home movers, and those looking to remortgage.

• Options for changing lenders, borrowing more money, and managing existing mortgages.

• Later life mortgages for individuals aged 55 or over.

• Partnership with ufurnish.com for home furnishing experiences.

1. Credit Cards:

• Range of credit cards for various needs, including:

• All in One Credit Card

• Long Term Balance Transfer Credit Card

• Everyday No Balance Transfer Fee Credit Card

• Santander World Elite™ Mastercard®

1. Savings and ISAs:

• Savings and ISAs for different goals, including:

• Easy Access Saver

• Regular Saver

• Santander Edge Saver

• Easy Access ISA

• Fixed Rate ISAs

• Fixed Term Bonds

• Junior ISA

• Inheritance ISA

1. Investments:

• Investment options with cashback incentives.

• Investment Hub for online advice and fund selection.

• Investment advice and resources available.

1. Insurance:

• Home insurance, including contents insurance for renters.

• Life insurance, including critical illness cover.

• Health insurance.

• Mortgage life insurance.

• Family and lifestyle insurance.

• Over 50s Life Insurance.

• Car insurance, including electric vehicle insurance.

• Travel insurance.

• Business insurance and landlord insurance.

1. Personal Loan:

• Personal loans with fixed interest rates.

• Loan amounts from £1,000 to £25,000.

• Flexible repayment terms.

• Loan eligibility criteria apply.

Santander provides a comprehensive range of financial products and services to cater to their customers' banking, investment, insurance, and borrowing needs.

Accounts

Six digit account sort codes are used in the range between 09-00-xx to 09-19-xx. Sort codes for accounts formerly held by Alliance & Leicester use the range 09-01-31 to 09-01-36.

Credit Rating

In October 2011, Moody's downgraded the credit rating of twelve financial firms in the United Kingdom, including Santander UK, blaming financial weakness. In June 2012, Moody rated Santander UK as being in a more financially healthy position than its parent company, Banco Santander.

Deposit & Withdrawal

In November 2009, Santander launched the first current account in the United Kingdom without fees (including unauthorised overdrafts) for its current and future mortgage customers. In January 2010, the bank began waiving fees for customers using Santander's automated teller machines in Spain, which traditionally would incur fees for transactions in a foreign currency.

Accepted Countries

Santander's Corporate and Commercial Banking division operates from a number of regional business banking centres across the United Kingdom. Less than 1% of Santander UK's business is held abroad.

Customer Service

Santander has frequently been rated the worst bank for customer service in the United Kingdom, although by July 2011 had sought to improve, notably by returning call centre operations to the United Kingdom from India. Its '123' product range was ranked third best in the United Kingdom in 2013, and in a moneysavingexpert.com poll in February 2014, customers ranked their satisfaction higher than with any of other main high street banks.

Santander's customer support offers several ways to contact them and obtain assistance:

1. Telephone Support:

• Customers can reach a Customer Service Center Advisor at 1-877-768-2265.

• Hours of operation are from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday to Saturday.

• For customers with hearing/speech impairments, there is a dedicated relay service at 7-1-1.

1. International Calls:

• For customers calling from outside the United States, there is a local number: 1-401-824-3400.

1. Live Chat:

• Customers can use the live chat feature on the Santander website to get real-time assistance with their inquiries or problems.

1. ATM/Branch Locator:

• For information on ATM and branch locations as well as their hours of operation, customers can use the ATM/Branch Locator on the Santander website.

Santander's customer support is accessible through various channels, including phone, chat, and online resources, ensuring that customers have multiple options to address their banking needs and inquiries. The telephone support hours are accommodating, and they provide accessibility options for customers with hearing or speech impairments.

Summary

Santander UK Plc is a regulated financial institution under the United Kingdom's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) with License No. 106054. They offer a diverse range of financial products and services, including current accounts, mortgages, credit cards, savings and ISAs, investments, insurance, and personal loans. Santander provides accessible customer support through telephone, live chat, and an ATM/Branch Locator, ensuring customers have various ways to seek assistance with their financial needs. Their customer service hours are from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday to Saturday. Santander's comprehensive product offerings aim to meet a wide array of customer banking and financial requirements.

FAQs

Q: What types of current accounts does Santander offer？

A: Santander offers various current account options, including the Santander Edge Up, Santander Edge, Everyday Current Account, and specialized accounts for students and children.

Q: How can I contact Santander's customer support？

A: You can reach Santander's customer support by calling 1-877-768-2265 for general inquiries. For international calls, dial 1-401-824-3400. Alternatively, you can use the live chat feature on their website.

Q: Are there fees associated with Santander's current accounts？

A: Some current accounts may have monthly fees, such as £5 for the Santander Edge Up Current Account and £3 for the Santander Edge Current Account. The Everyday Current Account, however, has no monthly fee.

Q: What types of insurance does Santander offer？

A: Santander provides a range of insurance options, including home insurance, life insurance, health insurance, car insurance, and travel insurance, catering to various coverage needs.

Q: Can I apply for a personal loan from Santander？

A: Yes, Santander offers personal loans with fixed interest rates. You can apply for loan amounts ranging from £1,000 to £25,000, with flexible repayment terms. Eligibility criteria apply, and you can typically get a decision within 5 minutes.

Overview of FXTF

FXTF, also known as Goldenway Japan Co., Ltd., is a regulated financial entity based in Japan. With a history of 15-20 years, it operates under the supervision of the Financial Services Agency of Japan. FXTF offers trading services in the forex market, providing margin trading on 30 currency pairs and commodity CFDs. The company has a spread on various currency pairs, allowing traders to execute trades with relatively tight differences between buying and selling prices.

FXTF provides two trading platforms: the MT4 trading system and the GX trading system. The MT4 system offers PC and mobile versions for download. On the other hand, the GX trading system is designed for beginners and features a user-friendly interface.

Customer support is available through phone, email, and the LINE messaging platform. Deposits and withdrawals can be made through bank transfers, and FXTF offers quick deposit services with no additional costs. The company also provides various trading tools such as the Future Chart, Technical Analysis Commentary, Margin Calculator, and an email magazine to enhance the trading experience.

Pros and Cons

FXTF (ゴールデンウェイ・ジャパン株式会社) offers a range of features and services for traders interested in margin trading. As a regulated entity in Japan, FXTF is overseen by the Financial Services Agency. With low spreads on various currency pairs and leverage options of up to 25x, FXTF aims to attract traders looking for potential profit opportunities. The availability of both the MT4 and GX trading platforms caters to different preferences and trading styles. However, it is important to consider some limitations, such as the lack of detailed information regarding account types and demo accounts, as well as the limited payment methods restricted to bank transfers. Customer support options are also limited, and the absence of live chat or a dedicated FAQ section might be a drawback for some traders. Despite these drawbacks, FXTF's regulatory compliance and range of tradable assets make it a platform worth considering for individuals interested in margin trading.

Is FXTF Legit？

FXTF (ゴールデンウェイ・ジャパン株式会社) is a regulated entity in Japan. It holds a Retail Forex License, which is regulated by the Financial Services Agency of Japan. The license number is 関東財務局長（金商）第258号. FXTF obtained its license on September 30, 2007. The licensed institution is located at 2-11-15 Mita, Minato-ku, Tokyo. Their phone number is 0345776777. The company is certified by the regulatory agency, and the certified documents can be found in Annex1 and Annex2. Unfortunately, no information is provided regarding the website, email address, expiry date, or the nature of the “No Sharing” license type.

Market Instruments

FXTF is a financial platform that provides investors with a range of market instruments to engage in margin trading.

FX: FXTF offers margin trading services on 30 currency pairs, known as FX. This instrument allows investors to participate in the foreign exchange market. FX focuses on investing in foreign currencies, providing real-time rates for trading activities. FXTF provides real-time rates for currency pairs such as USD/JPY, EUR/JPY, GBP/JPY, and AUD/JPY.

Commodity CFD: In addition to currency pairs, FXTF provides Commodity CFDs, including XAU/USD (Gold/USD) and XAG/USD (Silver/USD). These instruments allow investors to trade in the price movements of gold and silver against the U.S. dollar. The prices for these commodities are quoted in the respective currency pairs, and the spread indicates the difference between the buying and selling prices.

How to Open an Account？

STEP 1: Application for opening an account

• Click on the “口座開設” (Account Opening) button.

• Confirm and agree to the contents of the delivery documents.

• Enter your customer information, such as name and date of birth.

• After completing the application, check your email for an application reception email.

STEP 2: Submission of confirmation documents

• Depending on the identity verification method, there are two patterns:

• Take a selfie and a confirmation document from your smartphone.

• Speed opening with a smartphone:

1. After confirming your identity, the account opening examination will be conducted, and upon passing the examination, the account opening will be completed.

• Choose one of the three submission methods: “upload,” “email,” or “mail.”

• Upload your scanned or photographed identity verification documents and My Number verification documents.

1. Normal opening:

1. Alternatively, attach the documents to an email and send them to the specified email address.

1. If mailing, prepare copies of the verification documents and send them to the designated address.

STEP 3: Account opening review

• Your application will undergo an examination.

• The results of the screening will be sent to the main email address registered on the day of application.

STEP 4: Account opening completed

• Await the examination results.

• Once the account opening is approved, the process is completed.

Leverage

FXTF offers leverage options for trading. For most major currency pairs, traders can apply leverage of up to 25 times their initial investment. However, for specific currency pairs like TRY/JPY, ZAR/JPY, and MXN/JPY, the leverage available is limited to 12.5 times the initial investment.

Spreads

FXTF provides spreads on various currency pairs. The spreads offered are as follows: 0.1 pips on USDJPY, 0.3 pips on EUR/JPY, 0.2 pips on EURUSD, 0.6 pips on GBPJPY, 1.0 pips on NZDJPY, and 0.7 pips on GBPUSD. These spreads allow traders to execute their trades with relatively tight differences between buying and selling prices.

Deposit & Withdrawal

For quick deposits, customers can choose between two procedures: using their personal page or visiting a bank window or ATM. The company covers the commission fees for this type of deposit, so customers do not bear any additional costs. Deposits are reflected immediately in the trading account, with some exceptions. The minimum deposit amount for this type of deposit starts from 1,000 yen.

FXTF provides 24-hour quick deposit services, allowing customers to deposit funds into their trading accounts at any time. Additionally, they offer a “Same-day Withdrawal Service” for expedited withdrawal requests. If a withdrawal request is made before 9:00 a.m. on weekdays, the funds will be transferred to the customer's account on the same day. However, the availability of same-day withdrawals is subject to certain conditions, such as the withdrawal amount.

FXTF offers an online deposit service called “Quick Deposit” for customers who have an Internet banking contract with their affiliated banks. This service supports deposits from banks such as MIZUHO, PayPay, MUFG, and Rakuten and etc. Deposits made through this service are reflected immediately in the trading account, and the transfer fee is free. The minimum deposit amount for this service starts from 1,000 yen, and deposits can be made in units as small as 1 yen.

The minimum withdrawal amount at FXTF is set at 1,000 yen. However, it is important to note that withdrawals of less than 1,000 yen are only possible at the time of cancellation, and such transactions are processed by the company itself.

Trading Platforms

FXTF offers two trading platforms: the MT4 trading system and the GX trading system.

MT4 trading system

The MT4 trading system, also known as Metaquotes version, provides multiple options for traders. The PC installation version allows users to download the platform and access a comprehensive manual for operating it. Additionally, there is a PC browser version available, which also has a separate manual for login and operation. Traders who prefer mobile trading can download the MT4 App for iOS, Android, or iPad devices, with operation manuals provided for each platform.

GX trading system

On the other hand, the GX trading system is a comprehensive platform specifically designed for trading FX and commodity CFDs. It is recommended for beginners due to its easy-to-understand interface and simple operation. The PC web browser version of the GX trading system features a sleek design and incorporates TradingView, a widely recognized charting and analysis tool. Traders can access live trading and refer to the FX and Commodity CFD operation manuals for guidance. The smartphone version of the GX trading system is also available for both iOS and Android devices, for traders who want to trade anytime, anywhere.

Trading Tools

FXTF offers a range of trading tools to enhance the trading experience for its users.

1. FXTF Future Chart is a trading tool provided by FXTF that allows users to predict future price movements based on past price data. It includes a trading signal feature that displays buy and sell points on the chart, making it user-friendly even for those without extensive chart analysis knowledge. The Future Chart can be accessed through the member-only page “My Page” or the “GX Web Browser Version” after logging in. It's important to note that the rates displayed on the Future Chart may differ from those on the trading system due to different rate distributors.

2. Technical Analysis Commentary is another trading tool offered by FXTF. It provides an explanation of technical analysis, which involves predicting future price movements by analyzing past market trends. The commentary is presented in an easy-to-understand manner, making it suitable for individuals interested in studying charts and enhancing their technical analysis skills. The tool covers various aspects of technical analysis, including trends and their classifications.

3. Margin Calculator is a tool provided by FXTF that helps traders calculate the margin required for their trades. Margin refers to the collateral required to open and maintain positions in the forex market. The Margin Calculator assists traders in determining the amount of margin needed based on the trade size, leverage, and currency pair being traded. This tool helps traders manage their risk and make informed decisions when executing trades.

4. FXTF E-mail Magazine is an informational service provided by FXTF. It is a newsletter that targets customers who have an account with Mr. Tomorani Saito, the Representative Director of Win-invest Japan Co., Ltd., a well-established FX school. The e-mail magazine provides strategies directly linked to trading and market direction predictions. The newsletter is authored by Masaru Sugita, the Chairman of Win-invest Japan Co., Ltd., and Tomorani Saito, the Representative Director of the FX school. It offers valuable insights and analysis for subscribers interested in staying updated with market trends and trading strategies.

Trading Hours

FXTF has defined trading hours for both winter and summer seasons. During winter, the trading hours are from Monday 7:05 am to Saturday 6:50 am. However, there is a scheduled maintenance period from Tuesday to Friday, lasting from 6:55 am to 7:05 am, which lasts for 10 minutes. In the summer season, the trading hours start at Monday 7:05 am and end on Saturday 5:50 am. Similarly, there is a maintenance period from Tuesday to Friday, lasting from 5:55 am to 6:05 am, which also lasts for 10 minutes. These trading hours provide a structured timeframe for traders to engage in financial activities with FXTF.

Customer Support

Reception Time: FXTF offers customer support throughout the week, with 24-hour availability during specific hours. During winter time, you can reach them from Monday 8:00 am to Saturday 7:00 am. In summer time, their support hours are Monday 8:00 am to Saturday 6:00 am. However, support is not available on weekends and during year-end and New Year holidays.

Inquiries by Phone: FXTF provides assistance regarding account opening and trading services via phone. You can contact them at 0120-445-435. The phone menu offers different options for specific inquiries. Option 1 is for inquiries about “Forex/Commodity CFD Trading,” option 2 is for inquiries about “account opening” and “deposits and withdrawals,” and option 3 is for “other inquiries.”

Inquiries by Email: For urgent matters, it is recommended to contact FXTF by phone. However, you can also send inquiries via email to support@fxtrade.co.jp. When reaching out via email, it is important to include your name and login ID, especially for customers with DEMO or LIVE accounts.

Inquiries via LINE: FXTF also offers customer support through the messaging platform LINE. However, for urgent matters, contacting them by phone is advised. To add FXTF as a friend on LINE, you can use the LINE ID @GWFX. Please avoid sharing personal information or account details in the chat support.

Conclusion

FXTF is a regulated financial platform based in Japan, offering trading services in the form of margin trading for currency pairs and commodity CFDs. It has been operating for approximately 15-20 years and is regulated by the Financial Services Agency in Japan. FXTF provides spreads on various currency pairs and offers leverage options of up to 25 times the initial investment for most major currency pairs, with a slightly lower leverage of 12.5 times for specific pairs. The platform supports two trading systems: MT4 and GX, catering to different trader preferences. FXTF also provides trading tools such as the FXTF Future Chart, Technical Analysis Commentary, Margin Calculator, and an informative email magazine. Customer support is available via phone, email, and the LINE messaging platform during specified hours. FXTF offers deposit and withdrawal services, with various methods available for customers to manage their funds. Overall, FXTF provides a regulated trading environment with offerings for traders interested in margin trading of currency pairs and commodity CFDs.

FAQs

Q: What is the leverage offered by FXTF？

A: FXTF offers leverage of up to 25 times for most major currency pairs and 12.5 times for specific pairs like TRY/JPY, ZAR/JPY, and MXN/JPY.

Q: What are the trading platforms provided by FXTF？

A: FXTF offers the MT4 trading system and the GX trading system as trading platforms.

Q: What market instruments can I trade with FXTF？

A: FXTF provides trading services for FX (30 currency pairs) and Commodity CFDs.

Q: How can I open an account with FXTF？

A: To open an account with FXTF, you need to complete an application, submit confirmation documents, undergo an account opening review, and await the approval.

Q: What are the deposit and withdrawal options with FXTF？

A: FXTF offers various deposit options, including quick deposits through personal pages or bank windows/ATMs. Withdrawals can be made with a same-day withdrawal service, subject to certain conditions.

Q: What are the customer support options provided by FXTF？

A: FXTF offers customer support through phone, email, and the LINE messaging platform.

Q: What are the trading tools offered by FXTF？

A: FXTF provides trading tools such as FXTF Future Chart, Technical Analysis Commentary, Margin Calculator, and FXTF E-mail Magazine.

Q: What are the trading hours of FXTF？

A: FXTF has defined trading hours during both winter and summer seasons, with scheduled maintenance periods.

Q: Is FXTF regulated？

A: Yes, FXTF is a regulated entity in Japan, holding a Retail Forex License regulated by the Financial Services Agency.

Q: How long has FXTF been in operation？

A: FXTF has been operating for 15-20 years.