What is Swiss Markets？

Swiss Markets, a subsidiary of BDS Swiss Markets Global Services Ltd, is an online forex and CFD broker that has been operational since 2016. It provides investors with various trading assets, including Forex, Metals, Energy, Commodities, and Indices. The company is registered in Mauritius and regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CYSEC).

Despite being a regulated entity, Swiss Markets has been identified on a list of blocked websites issued by the Ministry of Trade, Indonesia, on February 2, 2022, citing unauthorized commodity futures trading. This is a significant red flag for potential investors considering using their platform.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• It is regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CYSEC), ensuring it adheres to strict regulatory standards.

• It offers appealing spreads and commissions, which can help traders keep their trading costs low.

• It supports the popular MT4 trading platform, which provides advanced charting tools, automated trading through Expert Advisors (EAs), and a secure trading environment.

• It provides various methods for deposits and withdrawals, offering flexibility and convenience to clients.

Cons:

• It has been marked out on the WikiFx warning list, which can raise concerns about its credibility and reliability. It's always important for traders to do their due diligence when choosing a broker.

Is Swiss Markets safe or scam？

Swiss Markets is regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CYSEC), which generally offers a degree of reassurance that they adhere to specific regulatory standards for fair trading and client transparency. However, despite regulation status, Swiss Markets have been flagged up due to their presence on a warning list issued by WikiFX, a platform providing broker service information and more.

Swiss Markets is part of a list of brokers that have been flagged as potentially dangerous by a regulatory authority. On February 2, 2022, these brokers had an adverse disclosure issued by the Ministry of Trade in Indonesia. This listing blocks several websites due to their participation in illegal commodity futures trading and gambling under the pretense of trading.

The exposures concerning Swiss Markets generally focus on issues related to withdrawals and deceptive practices. Users commonly reported experiencing troubles when trying to withdraw their funds - unexpected fees were sometimes introduced and withdrawals would either take an excessively long time or not be processed correctly, often leading to additional costs. Furthermore, some users also pointed out concerns relating to the handling of deposits and unexpected trade anomalies after depositing significant amounts. The issues were not satisfactorily resolved, even after multiple complaints, casting doubts about the platform's reliability and trustworthiness.

Market Instruments

• Forex: This involves trading in the global currency market, offering a range of currency pairs for trading.

• Metals: This category allows users to trade in precious metals such as gold and silver.

• Energies: Swiss Market clients have the opportunity to trade in energy commodities, including crude oil and natural gas.

• Indices: This platform provides global indices allowing traders to gain exposure to various sectors of different economies.

• Equities: Clients can also opt to trade in equities, providing an opportunity to invest and trade in various company shares.

Account Types

Swiss Markets offers two primary account types, the STP Classic and the STP Raw, both with a minimum deposit of $200. The STP model is a mechanism in the financial market that allows direct trades between buyers and sellers without going through an intermediate exchange or any other form of processing. This implies a non-dealing desk environment where trade orders are automatically processed by the system, eliminating the need for a manual dealing desk.

Leverage

Swiss Markets offers different levels of leverage depending on the account type and the market instrument being traded. For Forex trading, the leverage is quite high - it can go up to 1:500 for the STP Classic account and up to 1:200 for the STP Raw account. For other trading categories, such as Metals, Energies, Indices, and Equities, the leverage is set at 1%, or equivalently a ratio of 1:100. This applies uniformly on both STP Classic and STP Raw account types.

It's important to note that while higher leverage can magnify profits, it can also increase potential losses. Therefore, it should be used judiciously and traders should have a well-thought risk management strategy in place.

Spread & Commission

Swiss Markets operates with two different account types, STP Classic and STP Raw, each with its unique spread and commission structure. They have designed these structures to cater to a diverse range of trading needs.

For the STP Classic account, spreads are set low and no commissions are charged across Forex, Precious Metals, and Energies trading. However, there is a minimal fixed commission for Stock Indices.

Conversely, in the STP Raw account, they offer extremely low or even zero spreads in Forex trading. This tighter spread is also evident in Precious Metals and Energies trading. This lower spread does come with a commission fee. In the case of Stock Indices, like with the STP Classic, spreads are fixed with a small commission charge.

Trading Platforms

Swiss Markets offers the MetaTrader 4 (MT4) trading platform, a comprehensive platform that offers a variety of features to aid traders in executing their strategies, one of the most popular and widely used trading platforms in the world. It's available across multiple devices including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, offering flexibility and convenience to its users.

Deposit & Withdrawal

Swiss Markets offers a diverse range of deposit and withdrawal methods, including Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Postepay, Giro Pay, Swift, Sofort, EPS, iDeal, Przelewy24, Skrill, and Neteller. Most methods support various currencies and process deposits immediately. Swift,however, can take 1-4 working days for deposits to process.

When it comes to withdrawals, Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Skrill, Neteller, and Swift manage this within 24 hours. Postepay, Giro Pay, Sofort, EPS, iDeal, and Przelewy24 do not support withdrawals.

For a detailed breakdown of the deposit and withdrawal methods, supported currencies and timeframes, clients can refer to the table provided.

Conclusion

Swiss Markets is a broker that is regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission. They offer broad accessibility with a user-friendly interface, multidimensional trading analysis tools via the MT4 platform, and diverse methods for deposits and withdrawals. They prioritize client fund safety, with a minimum deposit of $200, and ensure swift processing of transactions. However, being flagged on the WikiFx warning list signals the need for users to conduct their own due diligence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How much money do I need to put in to open an account？

A: The minimum deposit for starting a new account is $200.

Q: Is Swiss Markets regulated？

A: Yes, the broker is regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CYSEC) however recently was flagged by the Ministry of Trade in Indonesia for unauthorized activity.

Q: What trading platform does Swiss Markets use？

A: Swiss Markets uses the MetaTrader 4 platform, under a white-label license.

Q: Why is Swiss Markets on a warning list？

A: The Ministry of Trade in Indonesia listed Swiss Markets on a warning list for illegal commodity futures trading.

Q: How can I contact Swiss Markets？

A: Swiss Markets can be contacted via phone: +44 (20) 36709704; +49 3021446981; +34 (91) 0756974; +357 25262934; Email: support@swissmarkets.com. And online messaging on the website is also available.

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.

What is GKFX Prime？

GKFX Prime is an online forex and CFD broker that was established in 2012. The broker is based in the United Kingdom. GKFX Prime provides traders with a range of trading instruments, including forex, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. They offer various account types and trading platforms, including the popular MetaTrader4 and MetaTrader5 platforms. GKFX Prime also provides educational resources and customer support in multiple languages.

What Type of Broker is GKFX Prime？

GKFX Prime is a Straight Through Processing (STP) broker that offers clients direct access to interbank markets without the need for a dealing desk or human intervention. This means that trades are executed instantly and efficiently without any conflict of interest between the broker and the client.

Pros & Cons

GKFX Prime's main advantages are their competitive trading conditions, including tight spreads and low commissions, as well as their extensive range of trading instruments and educational resources.

However, their lack of regulatory oversight in major jurisdictions and too many complaints from users may be a concern for some traders.

Ultimately, it's important for traders to weigh these factors against their own priorities and preferences when choosing a broker.

GKFX Prime Alternative Brokers

Some alternative brokers to GKFX Prime include:

• IC Markets: An Australian-based broker that offers ECN trading with tight spreads and low commissions. They also have a wide range of trading instruments and multiple trading platforms.

• Admiral Markets: A European-based broker with a strong focus on education and research. They offer a variety of account types and trading platforms, as well as a wide range of trading instruments.

• FxPro: A UK-based broker with over 15 years of experience in the industry. They offer a range of trading platforms and account types, including ECN trading with tight spreads.

• Pepperstone: An Australian-based broker that offers low spreads, fast execution, and a variety of trading platforms. They also offer a range of educational resources for traders.

• XM: A global broker that offers a wide range of trading instruments and multiple account types. They also offer a demo account for traders to practice trading strategies without risking real money.

It is important to thoroughly research and compare different brokers before choosing one that suits your trading needs and preferences.

Is GKFX Prime Safe or Scam？

As GKFX Prime is an unregulated broker, its reliability may be a concern for some traders. While the company has been operating for several years, the lack of regulatory oversight may make it less attractive to traders who prioritize safety and security. The worse is that there are too many complaints from their users.

Also, it's important to note that being unregulated doesn't necessarily mean that a broker is unreliable. However, it does mean that there is no external oversight of the broker's activities and no protection for clients in the event of financial difficulty or fraud. Clients should exercise caution when dealing with unregulated brokers and conduct thorough research before opening an account.

Market Instruments

GKFX Prime offers 400+ financial instruments to trade, including forex, commodities, indices, stocks, and cryptocurrencies.

Forex: over 50 currency pairs, including major, minor, and exotic pairs.

Commodities: including gold, silver, oil, and natural gas.

Indices: over 20 global indices, including popular indices like the S&P 500, FTSE 100, and DAX 30.

Stocks: over 300 stocks from companies listed on exchanges in the US, UK, Germany, and France.

Cryptocurrency: including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin.

Accounts

Apart from free demo accounts, there is a large variety of live trading accounts available at GKFX Prime, and each one is tailored to the specific requirements of the clients.

A trader's risk appetite, the quantity of their initial investment, and the amount of free time they have daily to devote to trading the Forex market are all important considerations when deciding which account type will best suit their needs.

The account types include the following: Standard Fixed, Standard Variable, VIP Variable and ECN Zero. Additionally, Islamic accounts are available for clients who follow Sharia laws. There is no minimum deposit requirement for Standard Fixed, Standard Variable and ECN Zero accounts, while $5,000 for VIP Variable accounts.

How to open an account with GKFX Prime？

To open a new forex trading account with GKFX Prime, you must first pass a simple “know your customer” test. Because of this, GKFX Prime can verify your identity, your account information, and the security of your cash.

Login information for the trading platform that is best suited to the type of account you opened will typically be emailed to you after the initial registration.

Step 1 – Register an account

Open your Live Trading Account.

Step 2 – Fill out the 5-page form

Supply personal detail, financial information, trade knowledge and experience, etc.

Leverage

The maximum leverage offered by GKFX Prime is 1:400. However, the leverage available to you may vary depending on your location and the regulatory restrictions in place.

Spreads & Commissions

Different account types have different trading conditions. Specifically, Standard Fixed accounts have spread from 1.8 pips and no commissions; Standard Variable accounts have spread from 1.2 pips and no commissions; VIP Variable accounts have spread from 0.6 pips and no commissions; ECN Zero accounts have spread as low as 0.0 pips but have to pay a commission of 10/lot.

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

Note: The above information is subject to change and may vary based on account types and market conditions.

Trading Platforms

GKFX Prime offers the MetaTrader4 (MT4) and MetaTrader5 (MT5) trading platforms, which are popular and widely used platforms among traders. They provide access to a range of tools and features, including advanced charting, technical analysis tools, automated trading capabilities, and the ability to customize and use third-party indicators and trading algorithms.

They are both available for desktop, web, and mobile devices, making it convenient for traders to access their accounts and trade from anywhere at any time. Additionally, GKFX Prime offers a VPS (Virtual Private Server) service to clients who require faster and more reliable connection to the MT4 and MT5 platforms.

Overall, GKFX Prime's trading platforms are well-designed, user-friendly, and offer a range of advanced features suitable for both beginner and experienced traders. See the trading platform comparison table below:

Deposits & Withdrawals

While there is no minimum deposit requirement with GKFX Prime, we advise putting up at least five dollars so that you have more flexibility and a higher chance of building positions large enough to make a difference in the markets. The company offers quick deposit and withdrawal alternatives to GKFX Prime traders so that regular traders can have more faith in the platform and gain more market access.

Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard and Maestro), bank transfers and e-wallets such as Neteller and Skrill are all acceptable methods of payment, so long as the buyer has provided the necessary “know your customer” papers to comply with AML regulations. The most common of them is a photocopy of your passport and some form of the recent bill showing your current address.

Credit cards and bank transfers are both acceptable withdrawal methods. Transfers made with a credit card take three to five business days to process, while wire transfers can take anywhere from one to five days. Withdrawal is free of charge.

Please note that some deposit and withdrawal methods may not be available in certain regions/countries, and fees and processing times may vary depending on the chosen method.

GKFX Prime minimum deposit vs other brokers

GKFX Prime Money Withdrawal

To withdraw funds, clients need to log in to their account, go to the “Withdrawal” section, select the preferred withdrawal method, and follow the instructions provided. It's worth noting that GKFX Prime may require additional documentation for verification purposes before processing the withdrawal request.

Bonus & Fees

GKFX Prime claims to offer a 100% welcome bonus and a 50% re-deposit bonus. In any case, you should be very cautious if you receive a bonus. First of all, bonuses aren't client funds, they're company funds, and fulfilling the heavy requirements that are usually attached to them can prove a very daunting and difficult task.

Apart from commission fees on the ECN Zero account, there are no other fees charged.

See the fee comparison table below:

Please note that these fees are subject to change and may vary depending on the country of residence and the payment method used.

Customer Service

GKFX Prime offers customer support in multiple languages through various channels including live chat, phone, and email. Their customer support is available 24/5, which means that traders can get assistance during the trading week. Additionally, GKFX Prime provides support through social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.

The broker also provides an FAQ section and educational resources on its website to assist traders. Overall, GKFX Prime has a good reputation for customer support.

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

Education

Those interested in opening an account with GKFX Prime should familiarize themselves thoroughly with the ins and outs of forex and commodity trading before placing any trades. If a trader needs more information than is available on the GKFX Prime website, they should look elsewhere.

GKFX Prime offers a range of educational resources for traders of all levels, including video tutorials, articles, ebooks, webinars, seminars.

Webinars: GKFX Prime provides free webinars to its clients, covering various trading topics, such as market analysis, risk management, and trading strategies.

Video tutorials: The broker offers a collection of video tutorials covering a range of trading topics, including technical analysis, trading psychology, and risk management.

Conclusion

Based on the information provided, GKFX Prime is an unregulated broker with a wide range of trading instruments and account types. While their trading conditions are relatively competitive, the lack of regulation raises concerns about the safety of client funds. Their customer support and educational resources are adequate but not exceptional. Overall, traders should approach GKFX Prime with caution and consider alternative brokers that are regulated and offer more comprehensive services.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)