Overview of easyMarkets

easyMarkets is a Cyprus-registered forex broker that is regulated by CYSEC and ASIC. With 15-20 years of establishment, easyMarkets offers a wide range of trading instruments including forex, global indices, energies, metals, and cryptocurrencies. The company provides a user-friendly trading platform, educational resources, and flexible account options to cater to the needs of both beginners and experienced traders. They offer customer support in English, and their headquarters are located in Sydney, Australia.

Regulatory Authority

easyMarkets holds licenses from several regulatory authorities, ensuring a secure and compliant trading environment for its clients. These licenses include:

1. ASIC Regulated Market Making (MM): easyMarkets is regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) as a Market Maker (MM). This regulatory oversight ensures that the company adheres to stringent financial and operational standards while providing financial services to traders.

CYSEC Regulated Market Making (MM): Additionally, easyMarkets operates under the regulatory framework of the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CYSEC) as a Market Maker (MM). CYSEC regulation enforces transparency and fair practices in the forex market.

FSA Offshore Regulatory Retail Forex License: easyMarkets holds a license from an offshore regulatory authority, the Financial Services Authority (FSA), which authorizes the provision of retail forex services. This further underscores their commitment to regulatory compliance and trader protection.

FSC Offshore Regulatory Retail Forex License: Another offshore regulatory license in easyMarkets' portfolio is from the Financial Services Commission (FSC). This license allows easyMarkets to offer retail forex services within the framework of offshore regulations.

These licenses collectively demonstrate easyMarkets' dedication to operating within the boundaries of robust regulatory oversight, providing traders with confidence in the safety and integrity of their trading activities.

Pros and Cons

What type of broker is easyMarkets？

easyMarkets is a Market Making (MM) broker, which means that it acts as a counterparty to its clients in trading operations. That is, instead of connecting directly to the market, easyMarkets acts as an intermediary and takes the opposite position to its clients. As such, it can offer faster order execution speed, tighter spreads and greater flexibility in terms of the leverage offered. However, this also means that easyMarkets has a certain conflict of interest with their clients, as their profits come from the difference between the bid and ask price of assets, which could lead to them making decisions that are not necessarily in the best interests of their clients. It is important for traders to be aware of this dynamic when trading with easyMarkets or any other MM broker.

Market Instruments

easyMarkets offers a wide range of trading instruments, including forex instruments, global indices, energies, metals, and cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ripple, and Ethereum. This extensive selection allows traders, whether beginners or experienced, to access diverse markets and find opportunities that suit their trading preferences. The advantages include the ability to diversify portfolios, explore popular and emerging markets, and implement flexible trading strategies. However, it's important to note the potential disadvantages, such as market volatility, the need for complex market analysis, regulatory restrictions, increased complexity due to multiple markets, and the requirement for adequate market knowledge. Traders should also be mindful of price fluctuations and the need for efficient execution speed while trading multiple instruments.

Spreads and Commissions

When it comes to spreads, commissions, and other costs, easyMarkets stands out by offering no commissions on all accounts. This simplified cost structure allows traders to focus on their trading strategies without the worry of additional charges. However, one disadvantage is the lack of transparency regarding the specific spreads and SWAP rates, as this information is not detailed on the company's website. While easyMarkets aims to provide competitive pricing, traders may experience potential higher spreads compared to other brokers who provide more visibility on these costs. Additionally, the limited information on additional trading costs may make it challenging for traders to fully assess the overall cost implications of their trades. Nonetheless, the absence of commissions and hidden charges, along with the ease of cost calculation, can be considered advantages for those seeking a straightforward and transparent pricing structure.

Trading Accounts

easyMarkets offers a range of account types to cater to the diverse needs of traders. The availability of a demo account is a significant advantage, as it allows traders to practice and familiarize themselves with the financial markets without risking real money. This feature is especially beneficial for beginners who want to gain experience and test their trading strategies before transitioning to live trading. In addition to the demo account, easyMarkets offers three live account options: Standard, Premium, and VIP. While the Standard account requires a minimum deposit of 200 AUD, it should be noted that the premium and VIP accounts have higher initial deposit requirements of 3000 AUD and 10,000 AUD, respectively. However, one disadvantage is the limited information provided on the specific features and benefits of each account type. Traders may find it helpful to have more detailed insights into the advantages and differences between the account options to make an informed decision based on their trading goals and preferences. Nonetheless, the flexibility of having multiple account choices is advantageous, allowing traders to select the account that aligns best with their individual trading needs.

Trading platform

easyMarkets offers traders a variety of platform options to cater to their trading needs. The easyMarkets web platform, mobile app, and easyMarkets MT4 trading software provide flexibility and convenience. The platforms are user-friendly and packed with features, suitable for both new and experienced traders. Traders can benefit from features like free guaranteed stop loss, fixed spreads, and real-time market dynamics and pricing.

The easyMarkets MT4 platform supports over 80 markets, including currencies, metals, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies, offering one-click CFD trading and customizable trading templates. The platforms are accessible on multiple devices, including iPhone, iPad, Android phones, tablets, and PCs, ensuring traders can stay connected and trade from anywhere. While specific information about platform features may be limited, the overall advantages of easyMarkets' platform options make it a convenient and comprehensive choice for traders.

Trading Platform	easyMarkets Platform (Web & App)	TradingView	MT4 & MT5 Platforms
Features	- Tight fixed spreads- Free guaranteed stop loss and take profit- Zero Slippage- No commissions or hidden fees	- Tight fixed spreads- Access to a vast social network for traders- Advanced charting & analytics- No commissions or hidden fees	- Tight fixed spreads on MT4- Variable spreads starting from 0.5 pips on MT5- Expert Advisors allowed- No commissions or hidden fees

Deposit and Withdrawal: methods and fees

easyMarkets provides various payment methods for deposits and withdrawals, including wire transfers, MasterCard, VISA, Maestro, and popular e-wallet processors like Skrill, Neteller, and PayPal. These options offer convenience and flexibility to traders in managing their funds.

However, the broker's website lacks specific information and clarity on the deposit and withdrawal processes, leading to ambiguity. The speed of withdrawing funds from a forex broker is an essential factor that contributes to the broker's reputation. While easyMarkets supports widely accepted payment methods, the lack of transparency regarding processing times and potential fees associated with certain methods raises concerns. Traders should be cautious and seek additional clarification from the broker to ensure a smooth and efficient deposit and withdrawal experience.

Educational resources in easyMarkets

easyMarkets offers a variety of educational resources to enhance traders' knowledge and skills. These resources include webinars, technical and fundamental analysis insights, knowledge articles, and strategies. The availability of webinars provides traders with interactive learning experiences and the opportunity to gain insights from industry experts. The technical and fundamental analysis materials can assist traders in making informed trading decisions. Additionally, the knowledge articles and strategies cover a wide range of topics to cater to different learning styles. However, some drawbacks of easyMarkets' educational resources include the lack of specificity or depth in some materials and the absence of comprehensive educational courses or programs. It's important for traders to consider the relevance and timeliness of the information, as older educational materials may contain outdated content. While the resources provided by easyMarkets offer valuable insights, there may be limited options for personalization or customization to meet individual learning preferences.

Customer service of easyMarkets

easyMarkets provides customer service options to assist traders with their inquiries and concerns. The customer service is available 24/5, allowing traders to reach out for support during trading hours. Multiple contact options are available, including telephone, email, and fax, providing flexibility in communication. The direct phone line for the Dealing Room in Sydney enables direct access to the trading desk for immediate assistance. Additionally, a Sydney-based address is provided, allowing for in-person interactions if needed. However, it should be noted that customer support outside of English may be limited, which may pose challenges for non-English-speaking traders. Response time for inquiries may also vary, potentially resulting in some delays. While easyMarkets has a presence on various social media platforms, the extent of their engagement and support through these channels may be limited. Overall, the customer care dimension of easyMarkets offers convenient and accessible options for traders to seek assistance, with some considerations for language support and response time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, easyMarkets is a reputable forex broker with a strong regulatory framework and a history of 15-20 years in the industry. With its diverse range of trading instruments, including forex, global indices, energies, metals, and cryptocurrencies, traders have access to various markets to suit their trading preferences. The company provides a user-friendly trading platform and offers multiple account options to cater to the needs of different traders. Additionally, easyMarkets offers educational resources, customer support in English, and has a physical presence in Sydney, Australia. While there are certain areas such as transparency around spreads and additional trading costs that could be improved, overall, easyMarkets provides a reliable and accessible trading environment for both novice and experienced traders. With its focus on customer satisfaction, regulatory compliance, and a wide range of trading opportunities, easyMarkets remains a popular choice among traders looking to participate in the global financial markets.

Frequently asked questions about easyMarkets

• Q1: What is the minimum deposit required to open an account with easyMarkets？

• A1: The minimum initial deposit required to open an account with easyMarkets is 200 AUD.

• Q2: What trading platforms are available at easyMarkets？

• A2: easyMarkets offers a range of trading platforms including the easyMarkets web platform, mobile app, and the easyMarkets MT4 trading software.

• Q3: Is easyMarkets regulated？

• A3: Yes, easyMarkets is regulated by CYSEC and ASIC, providing traders with a regulated and secure trading environment.

• Q4: Can I trade cryptocurrencies on easyMarkets？

• A4: Yes, easyMarkets offers the opportunity to trade cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ripple, and Ethereum, along with other trading instruments like forex, global indices, energies, and metals.

• Q5: What are the customer service hours at easyMarkets？

• A5: The customer service at easyMarkets is available 24/5, allowing traders to reach out for assistance during trading hours.

• Q6: Are there educational resources available for traders？

• A6: Yes, easyMarkets provides a variety of educational resources such as webinars, technical analysis, fundamental analysis, articles, and strategies to support traders in their learning and development.

• Q7: What are the available deposit and withdrawal methods？

• A7: easyMarkets offers various deposit and withdrawal methods including bank wire transfer, local bank credit/debit cards, and e-wallet processors such as Skrill, Neteller, and PayPal.

What is Trade245？

Trade245 is a forex and CFD broker that offers trading services in forex, indices, commodities, and stocks. The broker is registered in South Africa. It offers the popular MetaTrader4 (MT4) and MetaTrader5 (MT5) trading platforms. Trade245 claims to offer competitive spreads, fast execution, and various account types and educational resources for traders. It is said to be authorized and regulated by South Africa Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA), but it seems to be a suspicious clone.

Pros & Cons

Trade245 offers several advantages such as a wide range of trading instruments, multiple account types, and user-friendly trading platforms. However, there are also several drawbacks, such as lack of regulation and transparency. Traders should carefully consider these factors before deciding to trade with Trade245.

Note: It is important to conduct thorough research and due diligence before choosing a broker to trade with. The above table is just a summary of the pros and cons of Trade245 and should not be taken as a recommendation to trade with or against the broker.

Trade245 Alternative Brokers

There are many alternative brokers to Trade245 depending on the specific needs and preferences of the trader. Some popular options include:

• Forex.com - a globally trusted broker that is regulated in multiple jurisdictions and offers a user-friendly platform, competitive pricing, and a range of educational resources.

• FXTM - a popular broker that is regulated in multiple jurisdictions and offers a range of trading instruments, including forex, CFDs, and cryptocurrencies, with competitive pricing and excellent customer support.

• IC Markets - a well-regulated broker that offers a range of trading instruments, including forex, CFDs, and cryptocurrencies, with tight spreads and fast execution.

Is Trade245 Safe or Scam？

There is no definitive answer to whether Trade245 is safe or a scam, as opinions and experiences vary among traders. There are concerns about the authenticity of their FSCA license, and some negative reviews from users about difficulties with withdrawals. Therefore, it is essential for traders to do their due diligence and thoroughly research Trade245 or any other broker before investing their funds.

Market Instruments

Tradable financial instruments available on the Trade245 platform include FX pairs, indices, stocks and commodities CFDs and more. Many other brokers could even offer richer instruments, like metals, cryptos, options, etc.

Accounts

Trade245 offers six types of trading accounts that cater to the diverse needs of traders. These accounts include Bonus 100, No Bonus, Swap Free, Zero Spread, Cent, and VIX 75 accounts.

The Bonus 100 account offers a 100% deposit bonus, while the No Bonus account has no deposit bonus but offers lower trading costs. The Swap Free account is designed for traders who want to avoid paying overnight swap fees, while the Zero Spread account offers traders the lowest possible spreads. The Cent account is tailored for traders who want to trade in smaller amounts, and the VIX 75 account is specifically designed for trading the volatility index.

Notably, there is no minimum opening deposit requirement for any of these accounts, providing traders with greater flexibility.

It is important to note that the Swap Free and VIX 75 accounts are limited-time offers, so traders should take advantage of them while they are available.

VIX 75 accounts are available for the MT5 platform, while other left account types are available for MT4 platform.

Leverage

All account types offered by Trade245 have a maximum leverage of 1:500. This means that traders can potentially increase their profits or losses by up to 500 times their initial investment. However, it is important to note that high leverage also increases the risk of significant losses. Therefore, it is crucial for traders to use leverage responsibly and manage their risk effectively. Traders should also ensure that they understand the risks and implications of using high leverage before trading with Trade245 or any other broker.

Spreads & Commissions

Trade245 offers variable spreads which start from as low as 1 pip for some account types (except for Zero Spread accounts from 0 pips). The spreads may vary based on the trading instrument, account type, and market conditions. Trade245 does not charge any commission fees for its trades. Instead, it includes its costs within the spread. However, the Zero Spread account type may charge an unspecified commission fee.

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

Note: The above data is based on the information available on the respective brokers' websites and is subject to change. Spreads and commissions may vary depending on the account type, trading platform, and market conditions.

Trading Platforms

Trade245 offers its clients the popular and widely used MetaTrader4 (MT4) and MetaTrader5 (MT5) trading platforms. Both platforms are available for download on desktop, mobile, and tablet devices. These platforms provide a user-friendly interface, advanced charting tools, and a wide range of technical analysis indicators. MT4 and MT5 are well-known for their fast execution speeds, reliable order execution, and a range of trading tools to enhance the trading experience.

Additionally, the platforms support automated trading through expert advisors (EAs) and allow traders to customize their trading strategies using their preferred programming language.

Overall, Trade245 provides a comprehensive trading experience for both novice and experienced traders with the support of two of the most popular trading platforms in the industry.

See the trading platform comparison table below:

Note: The table is based on the information available on the official websites of the brokers, and is subject to change.

Deposits & Withdrawals

Trade245 offers various deposit and withdrawal methods to its clients, including Visa, MasterCard, mPESA, ozow, Skrill and various cryptocurrencies. There is no minimum deposit requirement. There are no deposit fees charged by Trade245.

Withdrawals are said to be processed within hours, and there are no withdrawal fees charged by Trade245. However, clients should be aware that some payment providers may charge fees for their services.

Multiple Trading Currencies

ZAR, USD, GBP

Trade245 minimum deposit vs other brokers

Fees

Trade245 charges fees for several services as follows:

• Overnight Financing Fees: Also known as swap fees, overnight financing fees are charged for holding positions open overnight. The fees are calculated based on the trading instrument being traded and the position size.

• Inactivity Fees: Trade245 charges an inactivity fee of $50 per month for accounts that have been inactive for 3 months or more.

• Deposit & Withdrawal Fees: Trade245 does not charge any fees for deposits and withdrawals. However, third-party fees may apply, depending on the method used.

It's worth noting that the fees charged by Trade245 may vary depending on the type of account opened and the trading platform used. It's important to read the terms and conditions carefully before opening an account with Trade245 to fully understand the fees charged.

See the fee comparison table below:

Customer Service

Trade245 offers 24/5 customer support through various channels including email and phone. Their website also has an FAQ section where clients can find answers to common questions. You can also follow them on some social networks such as Facebook and Instagram.

Education

Trade245 offers some educational resources to its clients, including a glossary of commonly used trading terms and articles on various topics related to trading. These resources are aimed at helping traders of all levels to gain a better understanding of the financial markets and improve their trading skills. Overall, Trade245's educational offerings are a valuable resource for traders who are looking to improve their trading performance and achieve their financial goals.

Conclusion

Overall, Trade245 appears to offer a competitive trading environment with a wide range of trading instruments, multiple account types, and popular trading platforms including MT4 and MT5. However, the fact that their FSCA license is a suspicious clone raises some concerns about the legitimacy of the broker. In addition, there are some negative reviews from users reporting difficulties with withdrawals, which is certainly a red flag. As with any broker, it is important to conduct thorough research and exercise caution before investing any funds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)