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.

General Information

What is PBFX？

PBFX is a provider of online trading services focused on Forex currency pairs, stocks, commodities, oil & gas, and cryptocurrencies through MT4 platform. Pribizco currently registered with the New Zealand Financial Service Providers Register (FSPR) and the Australian Securities & Investment Commission (ASIC).

In the following article, we will analyze the characteristics of this broker from various aspects, providing you with simple and organized information. If you are interested, please read on. At the end of the article, we will also briefly make a conclusion so that you can understand the broker's characteristics at a glance.

Pros & Cons

PBFX has several notable pros and cons. On the positive side, PBFX offers a wide range of market instruments and flexible leverage options up to 1:1000, providing traders with various trading opportunities. Additionally, they have multiple account types to suit different trading needs through the leading MT4 platform.

However, there are also some drawbacks. There is limited information on spreads and commissions, which may be a concern for some traders. Additionally, the customer service contact options are limited, and the educational resources and tools provided by PBFX are also limited.

Is PBFX Safe or Scam？

PBFX's registration with the New Zealand Financial Service Providers Register (FSPR, License N0. 551686) and the Australia Securities & Investment Commission (ASIC, License No. 269820) indicates that it holds licenses in those jurisdictions. However, it is important to note that these licenses are considered general registered licenses, which may have different regulatory requirements compared to full regulatory licenses.

While registration with these authorities demonstrates some level of compliance, it does not provide the same level of investor protection as full regulatory licenses. Traders should exercise caution and conduct further research to assess PBFX's reputation, track record, and the overall safety of their services before engaging with the platform.

Market Instruments

Pribizco offers investors a wide variety of financial trading assets, mainly Forex currency pairs, stocks, commodities, oil & gas, and cryptocurrencies. The Forex market offers traders the opportunity to participate in the global currency exchange market, allowing them to trade major, minor, and exotic currency pairs. With stocks, traders can access various company shares and participate in the equity markets. Commodities such as gold, silver, oil, and gas provide avenues for diversification and hedging strategies.

Additionally, PBFX enables traders to engage in the growing market of cryptocurrencies, which includes popular digital currencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others. This diverse selection of market instruments gives traders the flexibility to explore various trading opportunities and diversify their investment portfolios.

Accounts

PBFX offers traders a choice of three live account types: Cent, Standard, and ECN. The Cent account requires a minimum deposit of $10, making it accessible to traders with smaller capital. The Standard account also has a minimum deposit of $10 and caters to the needs of traders who prefer traditional trading conditions.

On the other hand, the ECN account requires a higher minimum deposit of $1,000 and provides traders with direct access to the market through Electronic Communication Network (ECN) technology, offering enhanced liquidity and potentially lower spreads.

Additionally, PBFX provides free demo accounts with $10,000 in virtual funds, allowing traders to practice their strategies and familiarize themselves with the platform before trading with real money.

Furthermore, PBFX offers swap-free accounts for traders who adhere to Islamic principles. These account options provide flexibility and cater to the diverse needs and preferences of traders.

Leverage

PBFX offers flexible leverage of up to 1:1000 to its traders. This high leverage option allows traders to potentially amplify their trading positions and potential profits. However, it's important to note that trading with high leverage also carries increased risk, as it can amplify potential losses. Traders should exercise caution and carefully manage their risk when utilizing high leverage ratios. PBFX's flexible leverage option provides traders with the ability to choose a leverage level that aligns with their trading strategy and risk tolerance, allowing them to optimize their trading approach.

Spreads & Commissions

PBFX offers competitive spreads on its different account types. For Cent and Standard accounts, the spread is fixed at 1.7 pips, providing traders with a transparent and consistent cost for executing trades. On the other hand, ,ECN accounts have a spread of 0 pips which means traders can access raw interbank spreads and potentially benefit from tighter pricing.

However, PBFX does not provide specific information regarding commissions. Traders are advised to review the broker's terms and conditions or contact customer support to obtain more detailed information about commissions and any additional costs associated with trading on the platform.

Below is a comparison table about spreads and commissions charged by different brokers:

Please note that the information provided is based on general data and may vary depending on the specific account type and trading conditions offered by each broker. It's always recommended to refer to the official website or contact the broker directly for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Trading Platforms

PBFX provides a range of trading platforms, primarily focusing on the popular MetaTrader4 (MT4) platform. MT4 is known for its user-friendly interface, advanced charting capabilities, and extensive range of technical indicators and analysis tools. Traders can access the MT4 platform on various devices, including Windows and Mac computers, as well as mobile devices running on iOS and Android operating systems. This allows for seamless trading and monitoring of positions on-the-go.

The availability of MT4 across multiple platforms ensures that traders have flexibility and convenience in executing their trades. With its robust features and widespread usage in the industry, MT4 offered by PBFX enables traders to make informed trading decisions and execute their strategies effectively.

See the trading platform comparison table below:

Deposits & Withdrawals

PBFX offers a variety of convenient and secure payment options for both deposits and withdrawals. Traders can fund their accounts using popular methods such as Tether, PayTrust, MTPAY, China UnionPay, and SWIFT. The broker has a low minimum deposit requirement of only $10, making it accessible for traders of different budgets.

PBFX minimum deposit vs other brokers

Moreover, PBFX does not impose any limitations on withdrawal amounts, allowing clients to withdraw their funds as needed. Both deposits and withdrawals are free of charge, eliminating any additional costs for traders.

PBFX also provides a benefit to its clients by offering 3 times free deposit and withdrawal per month, providing flexibility and cost savings. The processing time for deposits and withdrawals is relatively fast, typically taking 1-5 working days, ensuring timely access to funds for traders.

Bonuses

PBFX provides a bonus program that rewards clients based on their initial deposit amounts. Traders can receive bonus amounts depending on the deposited funds, offering an opportunity to enhance their trading capital. For example, depositing $10 will grant a $10 bonus, while depositing $20 will result in a $20 bonus. The bonus amounts increase with larger deposits, with $30 bonus for $30 deposit, $60 bonus for $50 deposit, and $90 bonus for $200 deposit.

It's important to note that the maximum deposit amount eligible for a bonus is $500, and the maximum bonus amount that can be received is $150. This bonus program allows traders to potentially boost their trading funds and take advantage of additional opportunities in the market.

Customer Service

PBFX offers a range of customer support options to assist traders in their journey. Clients can reach out to the broker through 24/5 live chat, phone, and email channels, ensuring prompt and efficient communication. The availability of multiple contact methods allows traders to choose the most convenient option for their needs.

Additionally, PBFX maintains an active presence on popular social networks like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, where traders can follow their updates and engage with the broker's community.

The combination of various customer support channels and social media presence demonstrates PBFX's commitment to providing reliable and accessible support to its clients, enhancing the overall trading experience.

Note: These pros and cons are subjective and may vary depending on the individual's experience with PBFX's customer service.

Conclusion

In conclusion, PBFX is a forex broker registered with the New Zealand Financial Service Providers Register (FSPR) and the Australian Securities & Investment Commission (ASIC). They offer a range of market instruments and flexible leverage options, providing trading opportunities for different types of traders.

However, the limited information available on their website, especially regarding spreads and commissions, raises some concerns. The customer service options are also limited, and the educational resources and tools provided by PBFX are not extensive. It is recommended to conduct further research and consider your specific trading needs before choosing PBFX as your forex broker.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)