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.

Risk Warning

Online trading involves significant risk, and you may lose all of your invested capital. It is not suitable for all traders or investors. Please ensure that you understand the risks involved and note that the information contained in this article is for general information purposes only.

Overview of FXCC

FXCC (Forex Central Clearing Ltd) is a brokerage firm specializing in foreign exchange (forex) trading. Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Limassol, Cyprus, FXCC is regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) under license number 121/10, ensuring compliance with financial and operational standards to safeguard client interests.

With a focus on providing a robust trading experience, FXCC offers a diverse range of tradable assets, including forex pairs, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies. Traders can access major, minor, and exotic currency pairs, enabling them to diversify their portfolios and explore various market opportunities.

FXCC caters to different trading preferences by offering multiple account types. These include standard accounts, ECN (Electronic Communication Network) accounts, and Islamic accounts suitable for traders adhering to Shariah principles. Each account type may have specific features and trading conditions tailored to meet the needs of different traders.

Is FXCC regulated？

FXCC (Forex Central Clearing Ltd) is a regulated brokerage firm. It is authorized and regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) under license number 121/10 and Nevis with registration number C 55272. Being regulated by CySEC signifies that FXCC operates in compliance with the regulatory framework and standards set forth by the CySEC.

Regulation by CySEC is significant as it ensures that the company adheres to strict financial and operational guidelines designed to protect the interests of clients. It includes measures such as segregation of client funds, ensuring transparency in pricing and execution, and implementing risk management protocols.

The regulatory oversight provided by CySEC aims to maintain the integrity of the financial markets and foster a fair and secure trading environment for investors. It also offers a certain level of recourse for clients in case of disputes or issues that may arise during the course of their trading activities.

Pros and Cons

FXCC, a regulated broker authorized by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), offers several advantages and disadvantages. On the positive side, FXCC provides a wide range of tradable assets, including forex, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies, allowing for diversification and trading opportunities. The broker also offers competitive leverage ratios, multiple trading platforms such as MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5), and various channels of customer support, ensuring prompt assistance.

However, some drawbacks include limited account types, a non-transparent fee structure that may make it challenging for traders to understand costs, limited educational resources compared to other brokers, limited bonus offerings, and the possibility of withdrawal fees. Traders should carefully consider these factors and conduct their own research to determine if FXCC aligns with their specific needs and preferences.

Market Instruments

FXCC offers a range of market instruments for trading. Here are some common market instruments that the company typically provides:

Forex Currency Pairs: FXCC specializes in forex trading and offers a wide selection of currency pairs. This includes major currency pairs like EUR/USD, GBP/USD, and USD/JPY, as well as minor and exotic currency pairs such as USD/ZAR or AUD/NZD. These currency pairs allow traders to participate in the global foreign exchange market and take advantage of currency fluctuations.

Commodities: FXCC may provide trading opportunities in various commodities such as gold, silver, crude oil, natural gas, and agricultural products. Trading commodities allows investors to speculate on the price movements of these tangible assets, which are influenced by factors such as supply and demand dynamics, geopolitical events, and economic indicators.

Indices: FXCC may offer trading on popular stock market indices like the S&P 500, Dow Jones Industrial Average, FTSE 100, or Nikkei 225. Trading indices allows investors to gain exposure to a basket of stocks representing a particular market or sector, providing opportunities to profit from the overall performance of the index.

Cryptocurrencies: As cryptocurrencies gain popularity, FXCC may provide trading opportunities in digital currencies such as Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), and others. Trading cryptocurrencies allows investors to speculate on their price movements without owning the underlying assets.

Main Account Types

FXCC typically offers multiple account types to cater to different trading preferences, including ECN XL Accounts in either Standard Account type Islamic Account type. While the specific account types may be subject to change or updates, the website primarily provides information on the ENC XL Account type. Here is a short description of ENC XL Accounts and each common account type that FXCC may provide:

ECN XL Accounts: ECN (Electronic Communication Network) XL accounts are known for providing direct market access. These accounts typically offer tighter spreads and faster order execution since they connect traders directly to liquidity providers, such as banks and financial institutions. ECN accounts may have variable spreads and charge a commission per trade.

Standard Accounts: Standard accounts are designed for traders who prefer a straightforward trading experience. These accounts typically have fixed or variable spreads and may require a minimum deposit to open. They offer access to the available tradable instruments and basic trading features.

Islamic Accounts: FXCC may offer Islamic accounts for traders who adhere to Shariah principles. Islamic accounts operate in compliance with Islamic finance principles, ensuring that no interest (swap) charges are applied on overnight positions. These accounts may have specific terms and conditions to meet Shariah requirements.

According to their website, the main type of account launched is the ECN XL type. The ECN XL type is described as including no minimum deposit with a 100% first deposit bonus, a Lot Size of 0.01 and a 1:500 max leverage. The ECN XL account also allows hedging as well as gives the option between a Standard Account and an Islamic Account.

In conclusion, FXCCs offered ECN XL account gives primary deposit incentive, the ability to hedge funds, and a choice between two account types.

Set-by-set on opening an account

1. Visit the FXCC official website: Use a web browser to navigate to the official website of FXCC. (https://www.fxcc.com/)

2. Locate the “Open Account” button: Look for a prominent button or link on the website's homepage that leads to the account registration process. It's often located in the top right corner or the main navigation menu.

3. Choose the account type: Select the desired account type based on your trading preferences and requirements. FXCC may offer different account options, such as standard accounts, ECN accounts, or Islamic accounts. Review the account types available and choose the one that suits you best.

Leverage

FXCC typically provides leverage ratios ranging from 1:1 up to 1:500. However, it's important to note that leverage requirements can be subject to change and may be adjusted based on regulatory guidelines and market conditions.

Spreads & Commissions (Trading Fees)

The specific trading fees charged by FXCC can vary depending on various factors such as the type of account, trading instruments, and market conditions. A spread commission, also known as a spread markup, is a fee charged by a broker for executing trades on behalf of traders. It is a common pricing model used in financial markets, particularly in forex trading. FXCC typically charges spreads, which is the difference between the bid and ask price of a trading instrument. Spreads can vary based on market liquidity, volatility, and the type of account. ECN accounts usually have tighter spreads compared to standard accounts but may charge a commission per trade. ECN accounts at FXCC may have a commission structure where a fixed fee is charged per lot traded. This commission is separate from the spreads and is applicable to trades executed in ECN account types. The specific spread and commission rates can vary based on the account type, trading instrument, and market conditions. Traders should carefully review the details provided by FXCC to understand the applicable spreads and commissions for their trading activities. It's important to consider the spread and commission model, along with other factors such as execution speed and overall trading conditions, when assessing the cost of trading with FXCC.

Bonuses

Typically, FXCC offers bonuses which may include welcome bonuses for new clients, deposit bonuses that provide additional funds based on the amount deposited, and loyalty or referral bonuses for existing clients who refer new traders or maintain a long-term relationship with the broker. These bonuses can provide traders with additional trading capital or rewards, potentially enhancing their trading experience.

It's important for traders to thoroughly review the terms and conditions associated with any bonuses offered by FXCC, as there are usually requirements that need to be fulfilled before the bonus can be withdrawn. Such requirements may include minimum trading volumes, specific timeframes, or other criteria set by the broker.

Trading Platform

FXCC typically offers popular trading platforms to its clients. While the specific platforms provided may vary or evolve over time, here are some common trading platforms that FXCC may offer:

MetaTrader 4 (MT4): MT4 is a widely used and highly regarded trading platform in the industry. It offers a user-friendly interface, advanced charting tools, a wide range of technical indicators, and automated trading capabilities through Expert Advisors (EAs). MT4 is known for its stability, customization options, and extensive community support.

Multi Account Manager (MAM): MAM is a money manager that can execute trades on the master account, and those trades are automatically replicated in the connected client accounts. This allows for efficient management and execution of trades across multiple accounts without the need to individually place trades for each client.

Deposit & Withdrawal

FXCC's minimum deposit requirement typically starts from $100 or its equivalent in other currencies. However, it's important to note that the minimum deposit amount can vary based on the chosen account type and the payment method used. Different account types may have different minimum deposit requirements, and certain payment methods may have their own minimum deposit limits imposed by the respective payment processors.

FXCC may charge withdrawal fees, but the exact fees and conditions can vary depending on several factors, including the withdrawal method, the account type, and the amount being withdrawn. It's advisable to review the information provided on the official FXCC website or contact their customer support directly for the most accurate and up-to-date details regarding withdrawal fees.

Customer Support

FXCC offers customer support to assist their clients with inquiries, technical issues, and other concerns. The company provides various channels through which customers can reach their customer support team. Here are some common customer support options provided by FXCC:

Phone Support: FXCC may offer phone support, allowing customers to directly speak with a representative. The contact numbers for phone support are typically provided on their website or in the client portal. Customers can call the provided phone numbers during the specified working hours to seek assistance.

Email Support: Customers can contact FXCC's customer support team via email. This method allows customers to describe their queries or issues in detail and receive a response from the support team. The email address for support is typically available on the FXCC website.

Live Chat: FXCC may offer a live chat feature on their website. This enables customers to engage in real-time text-based conversations with a support representative. Live chat is often preferred for its convenience and quick response times.

Online Contact Form: Some brokers, including FXCC, may provide an online contact form on their website. Customers can fill out the form with their details and submit their queries or concerns. The support team will then respond via email or the preferred communication method.

Educational Resources

FXCC may offer a range of educational resources to assist traders in enhancing their knowledge and skills. Here are some potential education resources that FXCC may provide:

Video Tutorials: FXCC may offer video tutorials covering various trading topics, including platform tutorials, trading strategies, technical analysis, and risk management. These videos can provide visual and step-by-step guidance for traders.

Webinars: FXCC may conduct webinars on a regular basis, featuring market experts and experienced traders. Webinars can cover a wide range of topics, including market analysis, trading techniques, and risk management. Participating in webinars allows traders to gain insights and interact with industry professionals.

Trading Tools: FXCC may provide traders with access to trading tools, such as economic calendars, market analysis tools, and indicators. These tools can help traders make informed trading decisions and analyze market trends.

eBooks: FXCC may offer educational eBooks covering various aspects of trading, including trading psychology, technical analysis, fundamental analysis, and risk management. eBooks provide in-depth information and can be a valuable resource for traders of different experience levels.

Glossaries: FXCC may provide a glossary of trading terms and definitions. This can be helpful for new traders or those who want to clarify specific trading terminology.

Trading Academies: FXCC may have a dedicated trading academy or educational section on their website. These academies often provide structured learning materials, courses, quizzes, and interactive learning resources to help traders develop their skills.

Market Insights: FXCC may offer regular market insights, including market analysis, daily/weekly market summaries, and economic news updates. These insights can provide traders with a better understanding of market trends and potential trading opportunities.

Conclusion

FXCC is a regulated forex broker headquartered in Cyprus. They offer a wide range of financial services, including forex, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies. Traders can access these markets through popular platforms like MT4 and MT5. With multiple account types and competitive leverage ratios, FXCC caters to different trading preferences. They provide customer support via phone, email, live chat, and online forms. FXCC also offers educational resources such as tutorials, webinars, and market insights.

FAQs

Q: Is FXCC a regulated broker？

A: Yes, FXCC is a regulated broker authorized and supervised by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC).

Q: What is the minimum deposit requirement at FXCC？

A: The minimum deposit requirement at FXCC typically starts from $100 or its equivalent in other currencies, although it may vary based on the chosen account type.

Q: What trading platforms does FXCC offer？

A: FXCC offers popular trading platforms such as MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5), providing traders with a reliable and feature-rich trading environment.

Q: Can I trade multiple asset classes with FXCC？

A: Yes, FXCC offers a range of tradable assets including forex, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies, allowing traders to diversify their portfolios.

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

A: You can reach FXCC's customer support through various channels, including phone support, email support, live chat on their website, or by filling out an online contact form.