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.

General Information

LINE FX is a regulated forex broker founded in 2018, with its headquarters based in Japan. As a regulated entity under the Financial Services Agency (FSA) in Japan, the broker operates with authorization and approval to provide financial services, offering clients a level of trust and security. LINE FX specializes in forex trading and provides access to 23 major currency pairs, allowing traders to capitalize on fluctuations in global exchange rates. With a commission-free trading model and leverage set at 1:25, the broker offers cost-effective and flexible trading conditions, making it appealing to traders of various experience levels.

Traders can utilize the LINE FX Pro platform on PC or the LINE FX App on mobile devices to execute trades efficiently and stay connected to the markets. The user-friendly interfaces and advanced charting tools empower traders to make well-informed decisions. Additionally, the broker offers a diverse range of order types, catering to various trading styles and strategies. Customer support is readily available through AI chat on LINE and an inquiry form on the website, ensuring timely assistance for traders. Furthermore, LINE FX's point-based reward program provides traders with an opportunity to earn LINE Points based on their trading volume, adding an extra incentive for active participation in the markets. Overall, LINE FX's regulatory status, diverse currency pairs, commission-free trading, and supportive trading platforms make it a compelling choice for forex traders seeking a reliable and rewarding trading experience.

Is LINE FX Legit？

LINE FX is regulated by the Financial Services Agency in Japan. Its current status shows that it is operating under the registration number 関東財務局長(金商)第3144号, which indicates that it has been approved and authorized to provide financial services in Japan. Being regulated by a reputable regulatory authority like the Financial Services Agency ensures that LINE FX adheres to certain standards and rules, providing a level of protection and confidence to its clients. Traders can have more peace of mind knowing that the broker operates under the oversight of a regulatory body, which helps mitigate potential risks associated with unregulated brokers.

Pros and Cons

LINE FX caters to forex traders who prioritize regulated services, diverse currency pairs, and a commission-free trading environment. However, traders with specific needs, such as cryptocurrency trading or comprehensive educational resources, may need to explore other brokerage options. The decision to choose LINE FX will depend on individual trading preferences and goals. Here's a table summarizing the pros and cons:

Market Instruments

LINE FX offers a variety of major currency pairs, providing traders with opportunities to engage in forex trading and take advantage of fluctuations in exchange rates. Traders can access a total of 23 major currency pairs, providing ample opportunities to speculate on global economic trends and fluctuations in exchange rates. Each forex pair allows users to trade in increments of 10,000 currency units, ensuring flexibility in position sizing. One notable advantage for traders is that LINE FX offers these forex trades free of transaction fees, reducing the overall cost of trading.

The offered currency pairs include major combinations like USD/JPY, EUR/USD, and GBP/USD, as well as crosses like EUR/JPY, GBP/JPY, and AUD/JPY. The inclusion of exotic pairs like ZAR/JPY, MXN/JPY, and TRY/JPY may attract traders seeking exposure to more unique and emerging market currencies.

It's worth noting that while LINE FX provides an extensive selection of forex pairs, its offerings are limited to this asset class. Traders interested in diversifying their portfolios with other financial instruments like commodities, cryptocurrencies, or stocks may need to consider alternative brokerage options that offer a broader range of trading instruments. However, for those primarily focused on forex trading, LINE FX's variety of major currency pairs and favorable trading conditions may prove advantageous.

Here is a comparison table of trading instruments offered by different brokers:

Order Types

LINE FX offers eight different order types to accommodate various trading styles and strategies. The primary order types include streaming, market, limit, and stop limit orders.

Streaming orders allow for real-time monitoring and instant execution at prevailing market prices. Market orders execute trades at the current market price, providing quick execution. Limit orders enable traders to set specific entry and exit points, executing the trade when the market reaches the specified price. Stop limit orders combine stop and limit order functionalities, triggering a limit order when a specified stop price is reached.

LINE FX also provides more advanced order types, such as One Cancels the Other (OCO) and If Done (IFD) orders. OCO orders link two orders together, canceling one if the other is executed. IFD orders are conditional orders that execute only if another order is executed first. Additionally, the IFD-OCO order type combines both IFD and OCO functionalities, allowing for multi-layered strategies. Finally, traders can use the Close All order to quickly liquidate all open positions in one action. LINE FX's diverse order types empower traders to tailor their trades according to their individual preferences and risk tolerance.

How to Open an Account？

To open an account with LINE FX, follow these steps.

1. Visit the LINE FX website and locate the “Open a Free Account Here” link.

2. Tap on the “Open a Free Account Here” link to initiate the account opening process.

3. You will be redirected to the account opening application form.

4. Complete the application form using either your smartphone or computer.

5. Make sure to use the latest version of the LINE app for a smooth experience.

6. Note that LINE FX does not accept account opening requests via postal mail, so online application is mandatory.

7. Follow the provided instructions on the application form.

8. Provide accurate and up-to-date personal information as required for the KYC (Know Your Customer) procedure.

9. Submit the application form along with any required identification documents.

10. Wait for the verification process to be completed.

11. Once your account is approved, you will receive login credentials to access your trading account.

12. Before proceeding, carefully read and understand the terms and conditions, as well as the risks associated with trading.

13. Opening an account with LINE FX gives you access to their range of trading instruments and platform features, so it's essential to have a clear understanding of their services before starting your trading journey.

Leverage

At LINE FX, the leverage offered for trading is set at 25:1. This means that to place a trade, users are required to pledge a margin of at least 4% of the total trade value for each currency pair. Leverage allows traders to control larger positions in the market with a smaller amount of capital. In this case, with a 25:1 leverage ratio, for every $1 of the trader's capital, they can control a trading position worth up to $25.

While leverage can amplify potential profits, it also increases the level of risk involved in trading. Higher leverage means higher exposure to market fluctuations, making the account more vulnerable to significant gains or losses. Traders should be cautious and use leverage responsibly, considering their risk tolerance and implementing proper risk management strategies to protect their capital.

The 25:1 leverage offered by LINE FX is in accordance with the regulations set by the financial authorities to ensure the safety and protection of traders. It is essential for traders to understand the implications of leverage and carefully manage their positions to avoid substantial losses. As always, trading with leverage carries inherent risks, and traders should thoroughly educate themselves about leverage before engaging in any trading activities.

Here is a comparison table of maximum leverage offered by different brokers:

Spreads and Commissions

LINE FX offers spreads on its trading instruments that vary across different currency pairs. Based on the provided data, spreads range from 0.2 pips to 3.9 pips. Major currency pairs like USD/JPY, EUR/USD, and GBP/USD tend to have relatively tighter spreads, which can be important for traders who prefer lower trading costs.

Additionally, LINE FX operates with a commission-free trading model. This means that traders do not have to pay extra fees per trade, which can be advantageous for those who wish to avoid additional costs in their trading activities.

It's important for traders to carefully consider the spreads and commission structure offered by LINE FX and compare it with other brokers in the market. While the absence of commissions can be appealing, traders should also weigh other factors, such as the regulatory status and the overall trading experience provided by the broker, before making their final decision.

Non-Trading Fees

LINE FX offers a transparent fee structure with no account opening fees, no trading fees, no deposit fees, and no withdrawal fees. This can be advantageous for traders as it eliminates many of the typical non-trading fees that are commonly associated with forex trading.

In addition, LINE FX does not charge any rollover fees, also known as swap fees or overnight fees. Rollover fees are usually incurred when a position is held open overnight, and they can add to the overall cost of trading. However, LINE FX provides swap points based on the interest rate differentials between the two currencies in a currency pair, and this can result in either a positive or negative swap, depending on the direction of the trade.

Furthermore, LINE FX does not impose any inactivity fees. Inactivity fees are often charged by brokers when an account remains dormant for a certain period without any trading activity. Traders at LINE FX can maintain their accounts without worrying about incurring such fees, even if they are not actively trading for an extended period.

The absence of non-trading fees at LINE FX can be appealing to traders as it allows them to focus on their trading strategies without the burden of additional charges. However, traders should still be mindful of any potential fees that may be associated with their payment methods, such as bank fees for wire transfers, as these charges are typically determined by the financial institutions involved rather than the broker itself. Overall, LINE FX provides a fee-friendly trading environment, giving traders the flexibility to manage their accounts and trades without incurring unnecessary costs.

Deposit & Withdraw Methods

To deposit funds into a LINE FX account, users can log in and access the “Deposit” option from the TOP page. However, it is important to note that users must have internet banking registration with the financial institution from which they plan to deposit. LINE FX supports deposits from several major financial institutions, including Mitsubishi UFJ Bank, Mizuho Bank, Sumitomo Mitsui Bank, Rakuten Bank, Jibun Bank, and PayPay Bank. It is crucial to ensure that the depositor's name matches the account name with LINE FX, as the platform does not accept deposits from different names. If a deposit is made from a different name, a refund process, known as “組戻し,” will be initiated, and the customer will be responsible for any associated fees. The procedure for “組戻し” needs to be performed with the sender's financial institution, and customers can inquire about the specific steps and fees involved with the bank. LINE FX requires no minimum deposit for forex trading, which sound great for new traders to get started.

As for withdrawals, users can make requests through the LINE FX platform. It is important to note that withdrawals can only be made to the registered bank account under the same name as the LINE FX account holder. Additionally, the processing time for withdrawals may vary depending on the user's bank and other relevant factors. To ensure a smooth and efficient withdrawal process, users should make sure their bank account details are correctly registered with LINE FX.

LINE FX does not charge any deposit fees, which can be advantageous for traders. However, it is essential to check with the user's financial institution to determine if they charge any fees for transferring funds to LINE FX. Keeping in mind the deposit and withdrawal methods available and the associated costs can help traders effectively manage their finances and optimize their trading activities.

Trading Platforms

LINE FX offers two trading platforms: LINE FX Pro for PC and LINE FX App for mobile devices.

LINE FX Pro is a full-featured and high-functioning trading tool designed for ease of use and efficiency on PC. Traders can access advanced charting tools, technical indicators, and analytical features to make well-informed trading decisions. The platform's user-friendly interface provides a seamless trading experience and enables traders to execute trades with precision and speed. It is a robust platform suitable for both beginner and experienced traders who prefer to trade on their desktop or laptop devices.

On the other hand, for those who prefer to trade on the go, LINE FX App is the recommended choice. The mobile app ensures traders don't miss any trading opportunities and allows for smooth forex trading with its intuitive interface. With the app, traders can monitor their positions, check real-time market prices, and execute trades from their smartphones or tablets. The app's user-friendly design ensures easy navigation and accessibility to essential trading tools, making it a convenient option for traders who want to stay connected to the markets while on the move.

Technology

LINE FX offers 11 technical indicators with configurable parameters. Streaming charts can be displayed horizontally or vertically, and users can keep the real-time charts displayed on their smartphone screen while they quickly trade with a tap of a button. If that's not enough, the service also lets users quickly pull up four charts, change currency pairs, display a different timeline, draw a trend line, and more.

Trading hours

Day sessions: 9:00 am to 11:20 am, 11:30 am to 12:20 pm, 12:30 pm to 2:50 pm Night session: 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. ETF trading is currently limited to day sessions. Orders are not accepted on market holidays or outside of trading hours.

Customer Support

LINE FX provides customer support to ensure a seamless trading experience for its clients. Traders can access support through AI chat available on LINE (with 24-hour availability) and an inquiry form on the platform's website. The AI chat is designed to provide quick and automated responses to common inquiries and concerns, offering timely assistance at any time of the day or night.

Additionally, clients can use the inquiry form to submit more detailed or specific questions related to their trading activities. The support team is dedicated to addressing these inquiries promptly and efficiently, aiming to resolve any issues or provide the necessary information to traders.

The customer support offered by LINE FX is an essential aspect of the broker's commitment to client satisfaction and safety. By offering free support, the broker ensures that its clients can trade with confidence, knowing that they have access to assistance whenever needed.

It's important to note that while AI chat and the inquiry form provide valuable support, they may not fully replace the personalized assistance offered by a dedicated support team. Traders who require more extensive support or face complex issues may benefit from direct communication with the customer support representatives.

Trading Tools

LINE FX offers convenient trading tools, including real-time economic indicator and market news notifications. Through their official LINE FX account, users receive timely updates, allowing them to stay informed without the need to check multiple sources. Additionally, traders can easily access the FX mobile app directly from the official account, enabling them to execute trades efficiently with a user-friendly interface and real-time market data. These tools empower traders to make well-informed decisions and navigate the financial markets effectively. However, it's essential to consider other aspects of the platform, such as trading instruments and regulatory status, to ensure it meets individual trading needs.

Bonus

LINE FX offers a rewarding point program called the “LINE FX Point Program,” where traders can earn LINE Points through their forex trading activities. The program provides an opportunity for traders to receive LINE Points as a special bonus based on their monthly trading volume, particularly for trading volumes exceeding 1 million currency units.

The point program operates on a monthly basis, and on the 15th of each month, the assessment takes place to determine the point reward rate, which is influenced by the trader's cash balance. Traders who meet the specified conditions can enjoy a doubled point reward rate, making it even more attractive for those who actively engage in trading.

By participating in the LINE FX Point Program, traders can accumulate LINE Points over time, which can be used for various purposes within the LINE ecosystem. These points can potentially be redeemed for various services or products, providing an added benefit to traders beyond their regular trading activities.

The bonus program not only incentivizes active trading but also offers traders the chance to benefit from additional rewards, further enhancing their overall trading experience with LINE FX. It's important for traders to stay updated on the program's terms and conditions to make the most of the point rewards and maximize their trading benefits.

Conclusion

In conclusion, LINE FX is a regulated forex broker founded in 2018 and authorized by the Financial Services Agency (FSA) in Japan. It offers a diverse selection of 23 major currency pairs, allowing traders to engage in forex trading and capitalize on exchange rate fluctuations. With a commission-free trading model and a maximum leverage of 1:25, LINE FX provides cost-effective and flexible trading conditions. The availability of the user-friendly LINE FX Pro platform for PC and the LINE FX App for mobile devices ensures seamless trading experiences. While the broker offers a rewarding point program and reliable customer support through AI chat and an inquiry form, it lacks educational resources and does not support cryptocurrency trading. Traders should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences when choosing LINE FX as their preferred forex broker.

FAQs

Q: Is LINE FX a regulated broker？

A: Yes, LINE FX is a regulated broker authorized by the Financial Services Agency (FSA) in Japan, which means it operates under strict rules and standards to ensure client protection.

Q: What trading instruments does LINE FX offer？

A: LINE FX specializes in forex trading and offers 23 major currency pairs, allowing traders to engage in speculation based on global exchange rate fluctuations.

Q: Does LINE FX charge commissions on trades？

A: No, LINE FX operates on a commission-free trading model, which means traders are not charged any extra fees per trade.

Q: What is the maximum leverage offered by LINE FX？

A: LINE FX provides a maximum leverage of 1:25, allowing traders to control larger positions in the market with a smaller amount of capital.

Q: What trading platforms does LINE FX offer？

A: LINE FX offers two trading platforms: LINE FX Pro for PC and LINE FX App for mobile devices, providing traders with flexibility in executing trades.