Overview of USGFX

Union Standard Group (USG) is an Australian investment firm that provides access to trade forex and CFDs under the brand name ‘USGFX’. The brand began operations in 2005 and is headquartered in Sydney, Australia with subsidiaries in London and Asia. This broker offers a wide range of financial instruments, including forex, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies, which can be traded on the popular MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5) trading platforms.

USGFX prides itself on its commitment to customer service, with a 24/5 customer support team available to assist traders with their queries. The broker also offers educational resources such as webinars, ebooks, and video tutorials, as well as a free demo account for traders to practice their strategies. In addition, USGFX offers a range of account types to cater to the needs of different traders, including Standard, Pro, and VIP accounts.

Is USGFX legit or a scam？

USGFX has received mixed reviews and there have been reports of some traders experiencing issues with withdrawals and customer support. USGFX had their ASIC and FSC licenses suspended and VFSC license revoked in 2020 due to concerns over their compliance with regulatory requirements, particularly in regards to client money handling and risk management procedures. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Financial Services Commission (FSC) of the British Virgin Islands suspended USGFX's licenses for six months, while the Vanuatu Financial Services Commission (VFSC) permanently revoked their licenses.

Regulated brokers are required to adhere to strict rules and regulations regarding client funds, transparency, and risk management. In the event of any dispute or issue, traders have recourse through the regulatory body. With an unregulated broker, there is no such protection, and traders may be at a higher risk of fraud or other unethical practices

Pros & Cons

Here let's take a closer look at the good and bad things about USGFX. On the plus side, they offer a wide range of financial instruments to trade, including Forex, commodities, and indices. Their trading platforms are also pretty user-friendly and easy to navigate. On the downside, their regulatory status is questionable, which could be a red flag for some traders. Plus, they don't accept clients from certain countries, so you'll want to make sure you're eligible before signing up.

Market Instruments

USGFX offers a range of financial instruments for trading, including forex currency pairs, commodities, indices, and shares of popular companies. Some examples of the instruments offered by USGFX are:

• Forex currency pairs such as EUR/USD, GBP/USD, USD/JPY, and AUD/USD

• Precious metals like gold, silver, and platinum

• Energy commodities such as crude oil and natural gas

• Indices such as S&P 500, NASDAQ, FTSE 100, and Nikkei 225

• Shares of popular companies like Apple, Amazon, Facebook, and Microsoft

Account Types

USGFX offers four different types of trading accounts to cater to the needs of different traders:

• MINI Account: This is the entry-level account with a minimum deposit requirement of $100. Traders with this account type can trade a wide range of instruments with low trading costs, access to educational resources, and 24/5 customer support. However, this account type comes with limited features, such as lower leverage and limited trading tools.

• Standard Account: The standard account requires a minimum deposit of $10,000 and comes with additional features such as higher leverage, access to more trading tools, and a dedicated account manager. Traders with this account type can also enjoy free VPS hosting and regular market analysis.

• VIP Account: This account type is designed for high-volume traders with a minimum deposit requirement of $50,000. In addition to the features of the standard account, VIP account holders can enjoy custom trading strategies, priority customer support, and exclusive market insights.

• Pro-ECN Account: The Pro-ECN account is designed for experienced traders and institutions with a minimum deposit requirement of $50,000. This account type offers ECN trading with no dealing desk, ultra-low spreads, and high execution speeds. Traders with this account type can also access premium research tools and institutional-grade liquidity.

How to open an account with USGFX？

Opening an account with USGFX is pretty straightforward and you need to follow these steps:

1. First, you need to go to their website and click on the “Open Account” button.

1. Then, you'll need to fill in some personal details, like your name, email address, and phone number. After that, you'll need to choose the type of account you want to open and provide some additional information, like your date of birth and proof of identity.

1. Once you've completed the registration process, you'll be able to deposit funds into your account and start trading. Just keep in mind that depending on the type of account you've chosen, there may be different deposit and withdrawal requirements.

Leverage

USGFX offers flexible leverage options ranging from 1:1 to 500:1, depending on the account type and instrument traded. It is important for traders to understand the risks involved with using high leverage and to use it judiciously. Additionally, some instruments may have lower leverage options due to market conditions or regulatory requirements. Traders should check with the broker regarding the available leverage options for specific instruments.

Spreads and Commissions (Trading Fees)

USGFX offers variable spreads, which means that the spread can widen or narrow depending on market conditions. The average spread for major currency pairs such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, and GBP/USD is around 2-3 pips. Commissions are not charged for forex trading, but there are swap fees for holding positions overnight.

For trading other instruments like commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies, USGFX charges a fixed spread. The size of the spread varies depending on the instrument traded. For example, the spread for gold is typically around $0.50 per ounce, while the spread for Bitcoin is around $60 per lot.

Non Trading Fees

Apart from spreads and commissions, USGFX also charges several non-trading fees. These fees can add up and affect your overall trading experience, so it's important to be aware of them.

One such fee is the inactivity fee. This fee is charged to your account if you haven't made any trades or withdrawals for a specified period of time. The fee amount varies depending on the type of account you have and how long you've been inactive.

Another fee to be aware of is the withdrawal fee. While USGFX doesn't charge a deposit fee, they do charge a fee for each withdrawal you make from your account. This fee is a fixed amount and varies depending on the payment method you choose for your withdrawal.

USGFX also charges a swap fee, which is a fee charged for holding positions overnight. This fee can be a credit or debit depending on the direction of your position and the interest rates of the currencies you are trading.

Lastly, USGFX may charge a conversion fee if you deposit or withdraw funds in a currency that is different from the base currency of your trading account. The conversion fee is a percentage of the amount being converted and can add up if you frequently deposit or withdraw in different currencies.

Trading Platforms

USGFX offers its clients the MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5) trading platforms, which are highly popular among traders worldwide. These platforms are equipped with a range of trading tools, including charting tools, technical analysis indicators, and trading robots, making them suitable for traders of all levels.

MT4 is a well-established platform that has been around for over 15 years. It is known for its user-friendly interface, ease of use, and a wide range of trading tools. MT5, on the other hand, is the latest version of the platform, which was introduced in 2010. It offers several advanced features, such as more technical analysis tools, a multi-threaded strategy tester, and an economic calendar.

One of the significant advantages of MT4 and MT5 is that they are compatible with a range of devices, including desktop computers, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. This allows traders to access their accounts and trade from anywhere at any time.

Here's how USGFX's trading platform stacks up against other brokers' platforms:

Deposits and Withdrawals

Minimum Deposit

USGFX has a minimum deposit requirement of $100, which is pretty reasonable compared to some other brokers out there. It means that even if you're just starting out with trading and don't have a lot of money to invest, you can still give it a go with USGFX. Of course, you won't be able to make huge trades for just $100, but it's a good starting point to get your feet wet and learn the ropes of trading.

USGFX offers a variety of deposit and withdrawal options to its clients. Deposits can be made through bank wire transfer, credit/debit cards, and various e-wallets such as Skrill, Neteller, and FasaPay. The processing time and fees for each method may vary.

Withdrawals can also be made through bank wire transfer, credit/debit cards, and e-wallets. However, it is important to note that there may be fees associated with withdrawals, depending on the method chosen. Withdrawal requests are typically processed within 1-2 business days.

Also, USGFX may apply internal fees to withdrawals that are not actively traded. For example, if you make a deposit and then withdraw it without trading, USGFX may apply a fee of up to 3% of the deposit amount.

Customer Support

USGFX offers customer support through various channels, including email, phone, and live chat. The broker has dedicated support teams in different regions to cater to clients' needs. Customer support is available 24/5, and clients can contact the broker through the website's contact form or through the provided phone numbers and email addresses.

USGFX also has an extensive FAQ section on its website that covers different aspects of trading, including account management, deposit and withdrawal, and trading platforms.

Educational Resources

USGFX offers a variety of educational resources to help traders improve their knowledge and skills in trading. The broker provides free webinars, video tutorials, e-books, and other resources to help traders learn about various topics such as technical analysis, risk management, trading strategies, and more. Additionally, USGFX offers a demo account, which traders can use to practice trading in a risk-free environment.

The educational resources provided by USGFX can be accessed through the broker's website or the trading platform. The resources are available in multiple languages, making them accessible to traders from different countries. Traders can also interact with the broker's experts and other traders through online forums and social media channels.

Conclusion

USGFX is a forex broker that offers trading services in a variety of markets, including forex, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. The broker offers several account types with varying minimum deposit requirements, allowing traders to choose an account that suits their trading needs. However, the broker's regulation has been a point of concern, with its licenses revoked by various regulatory authorities. This, coupled with negative reviews from clients and the low ranking score, raises questions about the broker's trustworthiness.

FAQs

• Q: Is USGFX a regulated broker？

A: USGFX was previously regulated by ASIC, FSC, and VFSC, but their licenses have been revoked due to regulatory violations.

• Q: What trading platforms does USGFX offer？

A: USGFX offers the popular MetaTrader 4 (MT4) platform for desktop, web, and mobile devices.

• Q: What is the minimum deposit requirement to open an account with USGFX？

A: USGFX offers a MINI account with a minimum deposit requirement of $100.

• Q: What is the maximum leverage offered by USGFX？

A: USGFX offers a maximum leverage of up to 500:1 for forex trading.

• Q: What are the available payment methods for deposits and withdrawals with USGFX？

A: USGFX offers various payment methods, including bank transfer, credit/debit card, and electronic payment systems such as Neteller and Skrill.

• Q: Does USGFX offer educational resources for traders？

A: Yes, USGFX provides a range of educational resources for traders, including webinars, e-books, and trading tutorials.

Overview of Central Tanshi

Central Tanshi FX Co., Ltd., headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, has been a key player in the financial services sector since its establishment in March 2002. Specializing in foreign exchange margin trading, the company offers a diverse range of trading services and is regulated by the Financial Services Agency (FSA) of Japan, ensuring strict adherence to financial regulations and consumer protection.

With partnerships encompassing over 20 major financial institutions, Central Tanshi provides traders with access to 10 currency pairs, a maximum leverage of 25 times, and variable spreads tailored to different time periods. Offering multiple trading platforms and flexible deposit methods, it aims to cater to the diverse needs of traders in the dynamic world of foreign exchange.

Is Central Tanshi Legit or a Scam？

Central Tanshi is a legitimate financial services company. It is regulated by Japan's Financial Services Agency (FSA), a reputable regulatory body known for its stringent standards. The FSA ensures compliance with financial laws and regulations to protect consumer interests.

Central Tanshis regulatory certificate number adds an additional layer of transparency and trust. While I cannot provide real-time or the most up-to-date information, based on the information available, Central Tanshi does not display the characteristics commonly associated with scam operations.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Regulated by FSA: Central Tanshi is regulated by Japan's Financial Services Agency (FSA), ensuring adherence to strict financial standards and consumer protection.

2. Multiple Trading Platforms: The broker offers various trading platforms for different devices, enhancing accessibility and convenience for traders.

3. No Minimum Deposit: There's no minimum deposit requirement, allowing traders to start with the amount they are comfortable with.

4. Flexible Deposits & Withdrawals: Central Tanshi supports multiple currencies and offers options for both free click deposits and transfer deposits.

5. 24/7 Trading: Certain instruments are available for trading 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, providing flexibility for traders.

Cons:

1. Limited Currency Pairs: The offering is limited to 10 currency pairs, which may restrict diversification for some traders.

2. Customer Support Information: Details about customer support are not provided, leaving traders uncertain about available assistance.

3. Lack of Educational Resources: The absence of information regarding educational resources may leave beginner traders without valuable learning materials.

4. Fees for Withdrawals: Foreign currency withdrawals and certain deposit methods may incur fees, impacting overall costs for traders.

Market Instruments

Central Tanshi primarily focuses on Foreign Exchange Margin Trading Services. Through its online platform, it offers specific products such as “FX Direct Plus” for discretionary trading and “Central Mirror Trader” for automated trading. These offerings allow traders to diversify strategies and take advantage of market volatility.

Account Types

The information provided doesn't give specific details about different account types offered by Central Tanshi. However, given that they offer both discretionary and automated trading options, it is possible that they offer different account types to cater to various trading styles.

How to Open an Account？

To open an account with Central Tanshi, you can follow these 3 steps as outlined on their website at https://www.central-tanshifx.com/:

Step 1: Application

• Go to the Central Tanshi website and fill in your name and address in the application form.

• Review the documents you'll receive as part of your application.

• You'll get an email confirming your application.

Step 2: Submit Documents

• In the email, you'll find two options for submitting identity documents:

• Easy Verification with Smartphone: Open the link on your phone, follow the instructions, and take a photo of your ID.

• Upload Verification: Open the link on your PC or smartphone and upload your ID photos as instructed.

Step 3: Account Confirmation

• If you used the smartphone method, once Central Tanshi reviews your documents, they'll send you an email with your user ID and password. You can start trading the same day.

• If you chose the upload method, they'll send your user ID and password by registered mail to your address.

• Log in to your account and complete additional information, like your My Number.

Keep in mind that Central Tanshi may approve or decline your account based on their review.

Leverage

Central Tanshi offers a maximum leverage of 25 times. This allows traders to control larger positions with a smaller initial investment, potentially amplifying gains. However, higher leverage also increases the risk of significant losses. Clients should be aware that using leverage might increase the volatility of their portfolio, and they should have a comprehensive understanding of the risk associated with leveraged trading.

Spreads & Commissions

The company operates with variable spreads that depend on the time of day. During certain hours, spreads can be as low as 0.1 pips for USD/JPY and as high as 16.0 pips for GBP/JPY during other periods. This flexibility allows traders to strategize their trades based on market timing. However, it's crucial to note that wider spreads could eat into profits and make some strategies less viable. No information is available regarding commissions, so traders would need to inquire directly about any additional costs.

Trading Platform

Central Tanshi provides a versatile trading environment through four different versions of their trading platform: smartphone, PC, iPad, and feature phone. The PC version comes with three additional options, including fast chart Trade Plus and a network trading system. Such diversity in trading platforms ensures that traders can execute orders and manage their accounts from multiple devices, offering flexibility and convenience.

Deposit & Withdrawal

Central Tanshi supports multiple deposit currencies, including Japanese Yen, US Dollar, and more. Deposits can be made via click deposit (free of charge) or transfer deposit (fees borne by the customer). Withdrawals in Japanese Yen are free, but withdrawals in foreign currencies are partly charged. This offers flexibility in currency and funding methods but can incur some costs, especially for foreign clients.

Customer Support

Central Tanshi Co., Ltd. strictly limits its contact options to an online contact form and does not entertain inquiries via phone. It is important to note that Central Tanshi Co., Ltd. operates as a separate entity, and consequently, it does not accept inquiries regarding the company through any means other than the provided online contact form. This approach reflects the company's chosen communication method and should be adhered to for any queries or concerns related to their services or operations.

Educational Resources

Central Tanshi offers an extensive range of educational resources to empower traders. These resources encompass a comprehensive market view, informative columns, and educational videos and seminars to enhance traders' knowledge and skills. Access to the latest market information, exchange rates, and currency charts facilitates informed decision-making. Additionally, tools like the swap calendar, economic indicators, settlement date calendar, and FX holiday schedule provide valuable insights into market dynamics.

Furthermore, Central Tanshi equips traders with in-depth market analysis, historical price movements, correlation coefficients for currency pairs, monthly average growth and decline rates, Chicago IMM currency futures position trends, and the historical performance of major economic indicators, policy interest rates, and GDP figures. These educational tools empower traders with the knowledge and data necessary to make informed trading decisions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Central Tanshi emerges as a regulated and accessible option for foreign exchange margin trading, offering multiple trading platforms, flexible deposit methods, and a 24/7 trading window for select instruments. However, its limited currency pair selection, lack of detailed customer support information, absence of educational resources, and potential fees for foreign currency withdrawals may impact the overall trading experience. As with any financial decision, prospective traders should carefully assess their individual requirements and preferences before choosing to open an account with Central Tanshi, ensuring it aligns with their specific trading needs and objectives.

FAQs

Q: What regulatory body oversees Central Tanshi？

A: Central Tanshi is regulated by the Financial Services Agency (FSA) of Japan, ensuring compliance with rigorous financial standards.

Q: What is the maximum leverage offered by Central Tanshi？

A: Central Tanshi provides a maximum leverage of 25 times, allowing traders to control larger positions with a smaller initial investment.

Q: Can I trade on Central Tanshi's platform 24/7？

A: Yes, Central Tanshi offers 24/7 trading availability for certain instruments, providing flexibility for traders across different time zones.

Q: Are there any fees for depositing funds into my Central Tanshi account？

A: Central Tanshi offers free click deposits; however, fees may apply for transfer deposits, depending on the chosen method.

Q: How many currency pairs can I trade on Central Tanshi？

A: Central Tanshi offers a total of 10 currency pairs, including both yen currency pairs and cross currency pairs.

Q: Does Central Tanshi provide educational resources for traders？

A: While Central Tanshi offers a wide range of market analysis tools, there is no mention of specific educational resources for traders.

Q: What support options are available if I have questions or issues with my account？

A: Central Tanshi primarily relies on an online contact form for inquiries and does not provide phone support, limiting the available communication channels for traders.