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 Ontega

Ontega is a trading broker headquartered in Cyprus, with a focus on providing access to various financial markets. They offer an array of market instruments, including cryptocurrencies, commodities, indices, shares, and currencies, allowing traders to diversify their portfolios. The platform prides itself on its user-friendly approach, featuring a web-based trading platform that requires no installation, making it accessible from both desktop and mobile devices. Additionally, Ontega provides multiple customer support channels, including email, telephone, and WhatsApp, to assist traders with their inquiries and concerns.

Is Ontega legit or a scam？

Ontega's regulatory status has raised suspicions in the trading community as it lacks clear and established regulatory oversight from recognized financial authorities. Traders are encouraged to exercise caution when considering this platform due to the absence of a well-known regulatory body overseeing its operations. The lack of regulatory oversight can pose potential risks, as traders may not have the same level of protection and assurance as they would with brokers regulated by respected authorities.

Given the concerns surrounding Ontega's regulatory status and the absence of a verifiable track record with recognized regulators, potential investors and traders should conduct thorough research and exercise vigilance. It is crucial to prioritize safety and security when selecting a trading platform, and choosing a broker with a strong regulatory framework can provide an added layer of protection for traders' funds and interests.

Pros and Cons

Ontega offers a user-friendly one-click registration process, making it easy for traders to get started quickly. The platform's web-based nature eliminates the need for installations, ensuring accessibility across various devices. It provides a range of trading instruments, including cryptocurrencies, commodities, indices, shares, and currencies, catering to diverse trading preferences. Additionally, Ontega offers multiple customer support channels, such as email, telephone, and WhatsApp, providing options for assistance. Lastly, it provides a variety of leverage options, allowing traders to choose their preferred level of risk exposure.

Ontega's regulatory status raises concerns, as it lacks clear oversight from recognized financial authorities, potentially posing risks to traders. The absence of comprehensive educational resources is a drawback for those seeking in-depth learning materials. While the platform offers various customer support channels, the disclaimer regarding WhatsApp communication and potential third-party access to information may raise privacy concerns. Moreover, the 1:10 maximum leverage for CFDs on shares may limit trading flexibility for some investors. Lastly, the lack of transparency on fees beyond rollover fees could lead to uncertainty about the cost of trading.

Market Instruments

Ontega offers a diverse range of market instruments, providing traders with opportunities to diversify their portfolios and explore various asset classes. Among the options available are cryptocurrencies, including popular assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum. Cryptocurrencies have gained significant attention in recent years, offering traders the chance to speculate on the price movements of these digital assets, which can be highly volatile and present both potential rewards and risks.

In addition to cryptocurrencies, Ontega provides access to commodities, enabling traders to participate in the commodities market. This includes various commodities such as gold, oil, and agricultural products. Commodity trading can be appealing to investors seeking to hedge against inflation or capitalize on supply and demand dynamics in these markets. Ontega also offers indices, shares, and currencies for trading, allowing traders to engage in global financial markets and potentially benefit from price fluctuations in major stock indices, individual company shares, and currency pairs.

How to open an account in Ontega？

Opening an account with Ontega is a straightforward process that can be completed in a few simple steps.

1. Go to Ontega's official website to begin the account registration process.

2. Locate and click on the “Open an Account” or similar button on the website's homepage.

3. Provide your personal information, including your name, email address, and contact details, as requested in the registration form.

4. After completing the form, check your email inbox for a verification link from Ontega and click on it to confirm your email address.

5. Select the type of trading account you wish to open, taking into consideration your trading preferences and requirements.

6. Deposit the initial funds into your Ontega trading account using one of the supported payment methods to start trading.

Once these steps are completed, you'll have a fully registered Ontega trading account, ready to explore the platform's features and engage in online trading activities.

Fees

Ontega imposes fees primarily in the form of rollover fees, which can vary depending on the asset class being traded. For cryptocurrencies, traders should be aware of a 0.50% rollover fee, which is applied when positions are held overnight. This fee is a percentage of the position's value and is important to consider when planning long-term cryptocurrency trades.

In contrast, commodities, indices, shares, and currencies all incur a 0.015% rollover fee for positions held overnight. While these fees are relatively low compared to some other brokers, they can still accumulate over time for traders who frequently hold positions overnight.

Leverage

Ontega offers a range of maximum leverage levels across different asset classes, catering to traders with varying risk appetites and strategies. In foreign exchange currency trading (Forex) and commodities trading, Ontega provides a maximum leverage of 1:200. This level of leverage allows traders to control a more substantial position size relative to their initial capital, potentially amplifying both profits and losses. While higher leverage can enhance the potential for significant gains, it also heightens the risk of substantial losses, making it crucial for traders to exercise prudent risk management practices.

For CFD trading on indices, Ontega offers a maximum leverage of 1:100, which still provides traders with considerable leverage to capitalize on price movements in these markets. However, CFD trading on shares is subject to a lower maximum leverage of 1:10, reflecting the higher risks associated with individual company stocks. In the cryptocurrency market, Ontega offers a maximum leverage of 1:2, highlighting the high volatility and risk inherent in the crypto space. Additionally, Ontega provides the option of 5 protected positions with a maximum leverage of 1:20, which can serve as a risk management tool to limit potential losses.

Trading Platform

Ontega offers traders a user-friendly online trading platform with several notable features. One of its key advantages is the straightforward one-click registration process, allowing users to open an account swiftly within just 5 minutes. This simplicity can be appealing to new traders looking to get started quickly. Additionally, Ontega's web-based platform eliminates the need for installations or downloads, ensuring accessibility across various desktop and mobile devices.

Moreover, Ontega places a strong emphasis on the fusion of learning and trading, aiming to provide traders with valuable skills and knowledge. The platform offers a range of tools, including Stop Limit, Stop Loss, Trailing Stop, and Guaranteed Stop, along with free email and push notifications on market events, price alerts, and market updates. This suite of tools empowers traders to make informed decisions and manage their risk effectively. Furthermore, Ontega allows users to customize their platform settings, tailoring it to their preferences and risk management strategies. While these features may be appealing to traders seeking convenience and control, it's essential for individuals to conduct their due diligence and carefully assess Ontega's offering and suitability for their trading needs.

Deposit & Withdrawal

Ontega offers a variety of payment methods to cater to the diverse needs of its traders. These methods include well-known options such as VISA, MasterCard, and Maestro, providing a convenient way for users to deposit funds into their trading accounts using their credit or debit cards. This can be especially convenient for those who prefer traditional banking methods for financial transactions.

In addition to card payments, Ontega also supports electronic payment solutions like NETELLER and Skrill, which offer an added layer of security and flexibility for users. These e-wallet options can be particularly attractive to traders looking for fast and efficient ways to manage their funds. Furthermore, Ontega provides the option of Bank Transfers, ensuring that traders can initiate direct transfers from their bank accounts if they prefer this method.

Customer Support

Ontega provides multiple avenues for customer support, ensuring that traders have access to assistance when needed. They offer an email support option through Customer.Service@ontega.com, allowing users to reach out with their inquiries or concerns. Additionally, Ontega provides telephone support during specified operating hours from Monday to Friday, between 08:00 and 19:00 GMT+2. This direct phone support can be valuable for traders seeking immediate assistance and guidance with their trading-related issues.

For added convenience, Ontega also offers customer support via WhatsApp at +447520640100. While this channel provides a modern and efficient way to communicate with the support team, it's worth noting the company's disclaimer regarding potential third-party access to information during these WhatsApp communications. Traders should consider their privacy and take necessary precautions when using this platform.

Educational Resources

Ontega is notably limited in terms of educational resources, which can be a drawback for traders, especially those who are new to the financial markets and seeking comprehensive educational materials. The platform does not offer a robust selection of tutorials, webinars, or educational articles that can assist traders in developing their skills and understanding market dynamics. As a result, individuals looking for in-depth educational resources may find Ontega lacking in this aspect, and they might need to seek supplementary learning materials from external sources to enhance their trading knowledge and proficiency.

Conclusion

In summary, Ontega is a trading platform that offers a user-friendly experience with one-click registration and a web-based interface, making it accessible across various devices. It provides a diverse range of trading instruments, including cryptocurrencies, commodities, indices, shares, and currencies, catering to different trading preferences. The broker also offers multiple customer support channels, ensuring assistance is readily available to traders. Moreover, Ontega offers flexible leverage options, allowing traders to customize their risk exposure.

However, it's essential to note the concerns raised about Ontega, primarily related to its regulatory status. The lack of clear oversight from recognized financial authorities can raise questions about the platform's trustworthiness and the level of protection it offers to traders. Additionally, the limited educational resources and potential privacy issues with WhatsApp communication are factors that traders should carefully consider when evaluating Ontega as a trading option. As with any trading platform, due diligence and thorough research are crucial to making informed decisions that align with individual trading needs and risk tolerance.

FAQs

Q: Is Ontega a regulated broker？

A: Ontega's regulatory status is unclear, and it lacks oversight from recognized financial authorities.

Q: What types of market instruments can I trade on Ontega？

A: Ontega offers a range of market instruments, including cryptocurrencies, commodities, indices, shares, and currencies.

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

A: You can reach Ontega's customer support through email at Customer.Service@ontega.com, telephone, or WhatsApp during specified operating hours.

Q: What is the maximum leverage available on Ontega？

A: Ontega provides varying maximum leverage levels, such as 1:200 for Forex and commodities, 1:100 for CFDs on indices, 1:10 for CFDs on shares, and 1:2 for cryptocurrencies.

Q: Does Ontega offer educational resources for traders？

A: Ontega lacks comprehensive educational resources, and traders may need to seek external materials for in-depth learning about trading strategies and market analysis.