Overview of Swissquote

Swissquote is a leading online forex and financial trading broker headquartered in Switzerland. It was established in 1996 and has since grown to become a popular choice among traders worldwide. The broker offers a wide range of financial instruments to trade, including forex, stocks, indices, commodities, bonds, and cryptocurrencies.

Swissquote offers several account types, including Standard, Premium, Prime, and Professional, to cater to different trader needs. The minimum deposit for a Standard account is $1,000, which is relatively high compared to some other brokers. However, the broker's range of account types and trading conditions may appeal to professional traders who require higher leverage and tighter spreads.

Swissquote provides its clients with access to several trading platforms, including MetaTrader 4 and 5, Advanced Trader, and their proprietary platform, Swissquote EDGE. The broker's platforms are user-friendly, feature-rich, and offer advanced trading tools and charting capabilities.

Is Swissquote legit or a scam？

Yes, Swissquote is a legitimate broker with four entities under respective jurisdictions:

Swissquote Bank Ltd, which is based in Switzerland, is regulated by the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA).

Swissquote Ltd, which is based in the United Kingdom, is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

Swissquote MEA Ltd, which is based in Dubai, is regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA).

SWISSQUOTE FINANCIAL SERVICES (MALTA) LTD, is regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA).

These regulatory authorities ensure that Swissquote adheres to strict standards in terms of financial stability, transparency, and investor protection.

Pros & Cons

Swissquote is areputable and regulated broker, offering an array of financial instruments and account types for traders to choose from. As with any broker, there are advantages and disadvantages to consider. In the following table, we present a summary of the key pros and cons of trading with Swissquote. Swissquote undoubtedly offers a comprehensive range of trading instruments and state-of-the-art trading platforms that are designed to cater to the diverse trading needs of both novice and experienced traders. However, despite its many strengths, it falls short in terms of customer support, as it does not provide round-the-clock assistance, which can be a major drawback for traders who require immediate assistance during off-hours or in emergency situations. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trader, this information can help you make an informed decision about whether Swissquote is the right broker for you.

Market Instruments

Swissquote offers a wide range of market instruments for trading, including over 130 currency pairs, commodities, stock indices, shares, bonds, and cryptocurrencies. As a well-established Swiss broker, Swissquote is able to offer trading on several Swiss-specific instruments, such as the Swiss Market Index (SMI) and the Swissquote Group Holding Ltd. (SQN) stock, as well as access to other global exchanges such as the NYSE, NASDAQ, and LSE. With such a broad range of market instruments, traders of different experience levels can find suitable trading options that align with their trading strategies and investment goals.

Account Types

Swissquote offers a range of account types to cater to the varying needs and preferences of its clients. The primary account types available are the Premium Account, Prime Account, Elite Account and Professional Account. Each account type comes with distinct features and benefits, such as different minimum deposit requirements, leverage ratios, and spreads. The Premium Account requires a minimum deposit of 1,000 CHF or equivalent, while the Prime Accounts require a higher minimum deposit of 5,000 CHF or equivalent. The Elite and Professional accounts ask for the highest minimum deposit of 10,0000 CHF or equivalent.

The Standard Account provides clients with access to a wide range of financial instruments, including forex, CFDs, stocks, options, futures, and bonds. The Premium Account, on the other hand, is designed for high-volume traders and offers lower spreads and commissions, as well as personalized service. The Prime Account is designed for institutional clients and provides them with a dedicated account manager, as well as access to exclusive liquidity and pricing.

Moreover, Swissquote also offers an Islamic Account, which is compliant with Sharia law and is available to clients who follow the Islamic faith.

Demo Trading

Swissquote offers a free demo account for clients to practice trading strategies and test out the broker's trading platforms without risking any real funds. The demo account provides users with virtual funds to trade on the same live markets as the actual trading accounts. The account comes with real-time pricing and charting tools, allowing traders to simulate trading conditions as closely as possible. This is an excellent opportunity for traders to get familiar with the broker's platforms and trading environment before committing any real money. Moreover, the demo account is ideal for both novice and experienced traders who want to try new trading strategies or test their current trading strategies without incurring any financial risk.

Overall, demo accounts are a valuable resource for any trader who wishes to sharpen their skills and become more proficient in their trading activities.

How to open an account with Swissquote？

1. Visit the Swissquote website and click on the “Open your Account” button.

1. Provide personal information, such as name, email, and phone number, along with a valid identification document, such as a passport or driver's license.

1. After the account is created and verified, the next step is to select the desired account type and deposit funds, such as Premium, Prime or Elite accounts.

2. Agree to the terms and conditions and submit your application.

3. Swissquote offers several convenient deposit methods, including bank transfer, credit/debit card, and online payment services. Once the account is funded, traders can access the trading platforms, begin analyzing the markets, and placing trades on a variety of financial instruments.

Leverage

Swissquote offers variable leverage levels depending on the financial instrument and the account type. For forex trading, the maximum leverage available is typically 1:30 for retail clients and up to 1:100 for professional clients who meet certain criteria. For CFD trading on indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies, the maximum leverage ranges from 1:10 to 1:5, depending on the underlying asset.

Always keep in mind that high leverage can significantly increase the potential gains, but it can also magnify the losses, so it's important to use it with caution and always keep in mind the risks involved.

Spreads & Commissions (Trading Fees)

Swissquote offers competitive spreads and commissions to its clients. The exact costs depend on the type of account and the trading instrument being traded. The Premium Account has variable spreads, with the EUR/USD spread starting from 1.3 pips, while the Prime Account offers spreads starting from 0.6 pips. The Elite Account offers spreads as low as 0.0 pips, but it requires a higher minimum deposit and trading volume. The professional accounts provide spreads from 0.0 pips too.

In terms of commissions, the Premium Account and Prime Account charge zero commission. The Elite Account and the Professional Account charge a commission of EUR2.5 per side per lot traded. Overall, Swissquote is often seen as competitive in terms of spreads and commissions when compared to other major brokers.

Below is a comparison table illustrating the spreads of EUR/USD, UK100, Gold, and Silver offered by Swissquote and three other brokers - FXTM, XM, and Plus500:

Non-Trading Fees

Non-trading fees are fees that Swissquote charges its clients for services that are not directly related to trading activities. Swissquote has a relatively low level of non-trading fees compared to other brokers. Swissquote does not charge deposit fees, but it charges withdrawal fees, which depend on the method used. Swissquote also charges an inactivity fee of CHF 50 per quarter if no trades have been made during the last six months. This fee is lower than the industry average, which is around $15 per month.

Besides, Swissquote also charges overnight swap fees, also known as rollover fees or financing fees, on positions that are held overnight. The amount of the fee depends on the currency pair, the size of the position, and the prevailing interest rates in the respective countries.

Trading Platform

Swissquote offers a range of trading platforms suitable for both beginner and advanced traders. Its flagship platform is the Advanced Trader, which is a user-friendly and customizable platform that provides access to multiple markets and a wide range of trading tools. Additionally, the broker offers the popular MetaTrader 4 and 5 platforms, which are favored by many traders for their advanced charting capabilities and expert advisor features.

Advanced Trader

Swissquote Advanced Trader is a proprietary trading platform developed by Swissquote. It is a fully customizable platform designed to cater to the needs of professional traders. The platform offers advanced charting tools, a variety of technical indicators, and the ability to create and backtest trading strategies using the integrated programming language. Swissquote Advanced Trader also offers real-time news and market analysis to keep traders up-to-date with market events. The platform is available for desktop, web, and mobile devices.

MetaTrader 4 (MT4)

Swissquote offers the popular MetaTrader 4 (MT4) trading platform to its clients, which is widely recognized in the industry for its reliability, speed, and advanced charting tools. MT4 is available for download on desktop, web, and mobile devices, allowing traders to access their accounts and manage their trades from anywhere at any time. Swissquote also offers a range of customized tools and indicators, allowing traders to personalize their trading experience on the platform. Additionally, Swissquote provides free access to Autochartist, a popular technical analysis tool that helps traders identify potential trading opportunities.

MetaTrader 5 (MT5)

Swissquote offers the MetaTrader 5 (MT5) platform to its clients, which is the successor to the popular MT4 platform. MT5 has several advanced features such as improved charting capabilities, additional order types, and an economic calendar. Clients can also use MT5's algorithmic trading capabilities through the use of Expert Advisors (EAs) to automate their trading strategies. Swissquote's MT5 platform is available for desktop, web, and mobile devices, making it easily accessible for traders on the go.

Here is a table comparing the trading platforms offered by Swissquote, IG, and IC Markets：

Deposit & Withdrawals

Swissquote offers two primary deposit methods: wire transfer and debit card deposit. With wire transfer, clients can make deposits in various currencies, but the process may take longer, typically taking one to two business days to reflect on their account. On the other hand, debit card deposits are processed faster, typically within a few minutes, and they are available in CHF, EUR, GBP, EUR, AUD, JPY, PLN, CZK, HUF and USD.

Minimum Deposit

Swissquote, a prominent brokerage firm in the financial market, has set its minimum deposit threshold at a noteworthy sum of CHF 1,000 or its equivalent in other currencies, which may be considered relatively high compared to other brokers in the industry.

Below is a comparison table depicting the minimum deposit prerequisites of Swissquote, Exness, and IG:

For withdrawals, Swissquote typically processes requests within one to two business days. Clients can withdraw funds using the same methods they used to deposit funds. However, it's important to note that some withdrawal methods may incur fees, so it's essential to check with the broker first before initiating a withdrawal request.

Customer Support

Swissquote offers customer support via various channels to ensure its clients receive timely and efficient assistance. Clients can reach Swissquote's customer support team via phone, email, and live chat, available during business hours. However, Swissquote's customer support is not available 24/7, which may be a disadvantage for clients who require immediate assistance outside of business hours. Nonetheless, the broker offers a comprehensive FAQ section on its website, which provides answers to some common questions, and clients can also seek assistance by submitting a ticket through the website. In addition, Swissquote offers support in several languages, including English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish, to cater to its global client base.

Educational Resources

Swissquote offers a plethora of educational resources to help traders of all levels enhance their knowledge and skills. The broker provides various learning materials, including webinars, seminars, online courses, and e-books. Additionally, Swissquote offers market analysis and news to keep clients informed about the latest developments in the financial markets. This valuable information can help traders make informed decisions when executing their trades.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Swissquote is a well-established and highly regulated forex broker offering a wide range of trading instruments, advanced trading platforms, and competitive trading conditions. The broker has earned a strong reputation for its commitment to security, transparency, and innovation, which has made it a preferred choice for traders looking for a reliable and trustworthy trading partner. While the broker's high minimum deposit requirement may be a challenge for some traders, its educational resources and excellent customer support help to offset this disadvantage.

FAQs

• Q: Is Swissquote a regulated broker？

A: Yes, Swissquote is regulated by several financial authorities, including the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK

• Q: What trading platforms are offered by Swissquote？

A: Swissquote offers several trading platforms, including the MetaTrader 4 and 5 platforms, the Advanced Trader platform, and a mobile trading app.

• Q: What is the minimum deposit required to open an account with Swissquote？

A: The minimum deposit required to open an account with Swissquote is $1000.

• Q: Does Swissquote offer a demo account？

A: Yes, Swissquote offers a free demo account with virtual funds for traders to practice trading strategies.

• Q: How can I deposit and withdraw funds from my Swissquote account？

A: You can deposit and withdraw funds from your Swissquote account using wire transfer or debit card.

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.