What is HFM？

HFM, a trading name of HF Markets Group, founded in 2010, is a financial broker that provides both individual and institutional clients with online trading services. HFM has been headquartered in Cyprus but serves several global offices in Dubai, South Africa, and offshore entities in St Vincent and the Grenadines, all under respective regulatory authorities.

In the following article, we will analyse the characteristics of this broker in all its dimensions, providing you with easy and well-organised information. If you are interested, read on.

What Type of Broker is HFM？

HFM 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, HFM 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 HFM 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 HFM or any other MM broker.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• HFM is a well-regulated company by various reputable authorities, providing a high level of security to traders' funds and personal information.

• The company offers a wide range of trading instruments, including forex pairs, cryptocurrencies, commodities, and stocks, with over 3500 instruments to choose from.

• There are multiple account types available, including Premium, Pro, Zero, and Cent, catering to the different needs of traders.

• HFM offers rich educational resources such as webinars, video tutorials, and daily analysis, providing valuable insights for traders.

• The company provides multiple trading platforms including MetaTrader4, MetaTrader5, and their proprietary HFM platform, giving traders a wide range of options to choose from.

• HFM offers various customer channels, through multiple channels including email, phone, and live chat.

Cons:

• The maximum leverage offered by HFM is up to 1:2000, which can be risky for inexperienced traders.

• HFM does not provide services to residents of the USA, Canada, Sudan, Syria, North Korea, Iran, Iraq, Mauritius, Myanmar, Yemen, Afghanistan, Vanuatu and EEA countries.

Is HFM Safe or Scam？

• HF Markets (Europe) Ltd is regulated by Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission - CySEC, with regulatory license number 183/12

• HF Markets (UK) Limited, its UK entity, under the regulation of the Financial Conduct Authority - FCA in the UK (license number 801701)

• HF Markets (DIFC) Limited, the Dubai entity under regulation of Dubai Financial Services Authority - DFSA (license number F004885)

• HF Markets (Seychelles) Ltd, authorized and offshore regulated by the Seychelles Financial Services Authority (FSA), with Regulatory License No. SD015

HFA appears to be a serious player when it comes to offering protection measures for its clients. They provide market leading insurance, positioning themselves as an industry leader in financial safety.

In addition to this, they maintain their accounts with major banks and ensure the segregation of client funds for added security. They also provide protection against negative balances, helping traders avoid owing more than they've invested.

Along with these measures, HFA implements robust risk management strategies to further safeguard their clients' assets. This shows their commitment to providing a secure and reliable trading environment for their users.

Market Instruments

HFM offers a diverse range of more than 3500 instruments across various asset classes, including forex, commodities, metals, bonds, energies, ETFs, indices, cryptos, and stocks. This extensive offering provides traders with a wide range of investment opportunities and the ability to diversify their portfolio. Traders can access multiple asset classes within a single platform, making it convenient and efficient to trade across various markets.

Account Types

HFM indeed offers a range of accounts to suit various trading styles and levels. They provide the option of Premium, Pro, Zero, and Cent accounts, catering to both novice and experienced traders.

The Pro account requires an initial deposit of $/€100/₦50,000/¥13,000 to get started. Interestingly, HFM does not impose a minimum deposit requirement for its Premium, Zero, and Cent accounts, making them highly accessible options.

Alongside these, they also offer free demo accounts, allowing potential traders to test out their platform and develop their trading strategies before committing real money.

How to Open an Account？

Opening an account with HFM typically involves a few standard steps:

Step 1: Visit the HFM website and click on the “Register” button.

Step 2: Fill out the registration form with your personal information such as country of residence, email address, and password.

Step 3: Once you've completed the registration form, you'll need to submit some documents to verify your identity and address. This generally involves uploading a copy of your passport or national ID for identification and a utility bill or bank statement for proof of address.

Step 4: After identity verification, you can choose your account type. HFM offers Premium, Pro, Zero, and Cent accounts. The Pro account requires a minimum initial deposit of $/€100/₦50,000/¥13,000, while the other three types do not have a minimum deposit requirement.

Step 5: Once you've selected your account type, you can make the necessary deposit using your preferred method of payment.

Step 6: After your deposit is confirmed, your account should be set up and ready for trading.

Leverage

HFM offers a maximum leverage of up to 1:2000, which can be an attractive feature for traders looking to maximize their potential profits with a smaller investment. This high leverage also provides greater market exposure and trading opportunities, allowing traders to take advantage of price movements in various markets.

However, it is important to note that high leverage also comes with high risk and potential losses. Traders must exercise proper risk management and discipline to avoid margin calls and account liquidation. While this feature may attract experienced traders, it may not be suitable for all, especially beginners or those with limited capital.

Spreads & Commissions

HFM caters to different trading preferences with variable spreads across its account types.

The Premium and Cent accounts offer spreads starting from 1.2 pips. The Pro account has even lower spreads starting from 0.5 pips. The most versatile is the Zero account, which offers spreads from zero pips on forex and gold trading, providing an entry point for cost-effective trading.

However, specific information on the trading commissions is not disclosed directly. You might need to reach out to their customer service or check thoroughly on their website for further details on this.

Trading Platforms

HFM offers multiple trading platforms including the popular MetaTrader4 and MetaTrader5 platforms as well as their proprietary HFM mobile app.

The MetaTrader4 and MetaTrader5 platforms are widely used in the industry and provide traders with access to a wide range of trading tools and indicators.

The HFM mobile app is relatively new but has an intuitive user interface and advanced charting features. However, it may have limited customization options and a limited selection of third-party plugins and add-ons.

Some traders may find the platforms too complex to use, but overall, HFM's platform dimension offers a good variety of options for traders of all skill levels.

Deposits & Withdrawals

HFM indeed provides a variety of options to make deposit and withdrawal processes simple and flexible for its customers. They accept bank transfers, major credit/debit cards (Visa & MasterCard), and several electronic payment methods such as crypto, Fasapay, Neteller, PayRedeem, Skrill, and Bitpay.

The minimum deposit or withdrawal limit is quite low, set at $5 for most payment methods, which makes it convenient for traders of all sizes.

HFM minimum deposit vs other brokers

They also ensure cost-effectiveness by not charging for most deposits and withdrawals. The processing times for transactions can vary depending upon the chosen method. Importantly, they have a system in place where withdrawals submitted before 10:00am server time are processed the same business day between 7:00am and 5:00pm.

More details can be found in the below screenshots.

Education

HFM is deeply committed to trader education and offers a comprehensive suite of educational resources for traders at all levels. They provide in-depth trading courses that cover a wide range of topics, aiming to enhance traders' knowledge and trading skills.

Their portfolio of educational resources also includes engaging videos that explain intricate trading concepts in an easy-to-understand format.

They hold webinars and seminars (upcoming), giving both novice and experienced traders the opportunity to learn first-hand from industry experts.

Additionally, HFM provides insightful podcasts featuring discussions on various trading topics.

These educational offerings are designed to help traders better understand the markets and make well-informed trading decisions.

Customer Service

HFM offers multiple avenues of customer support to ensure all client queries and concerns are attended to. The live chat feature on their platform allows for real-time assistance, alongside a contact form for more comprehensive inquiries.

They can also be reached through their phone number: +44-2030978571 or via email at support@hfm.com.

For those who prefer social media interactions, they have an active presence on Facebook, Twitter, Telegram, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn where they post regular updates and users can interact with them.

Lastly, for common questions, their FAQ section could be of help as it covers a range of general queries.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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 provided in this review may be subject to change due to the constant updating of the company's services and policies.

Note: This company has been voluntarily dissolved.

Overview of AGEA

AGEA, a financial services company, has been operating in the trading industry for 5-10 years. Based in Montenegro, the company provides trading opportunities primarily through Contracts for Difference (CFDs). Despite its years in the industry, AGEA operates in an unregulated environment, meaning it may not be subject to oversight by financial regulatory authorities.

Traders can choose between two types of trading accounts: Standard and Cent. With a minimum deposit requirement of USD 100. The company offers a maximum leverage of 1:100.

AGEA provides traders with two trading platforms: Streamster and MetaTrader 4. Additionally, traders can access live support for real-time assistance with any inquiries or issues they may encounter.

In terms of funding options, AGEA supports various deposit and withdrawal methods, including bank wire transfer, credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and local payment methods such as Sofort Banking (Germany) and iDEAL (Netherlands).

For educational resources, AGEA provides the latest news to keep traders informed about market developments and trends.

Regulatory Status

AGEA operates as an unregulated trading platform. Unregulated financial institutions are not bound by the rules and regulations designed to protect consumers' interests. This leaves customers vulnerable to various risks such as fraud, mismanagement of funds, and unfair treatment.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Experienced Institution: With 5-10 years of industry experience, AGEA brings a solid foundation and understanding of the trading landscape.

2. Account Variety: AGEA offers a variety of account types, including Standard and Cent accounts.

3. Low Minimum Deposit: The minimum deposit requirement of USD 100 makes trading accessible to individuals with varying capital sizes.

4. Multiple Trading Platforms: AGEA provides traders with a choice of trading platforms, including Streamster and MetaTrader 4.

5. Different Deposit/Withdrawal Options: AGEA supports various deposit and withdrawal methods, including Bank Wire Transfer, Credit/Debit Cards, E-wallets, and Local Payment Methods, providing flexibility and convenience to traders.

Cons:

1. Unregulated: One significant drawback of AGEA is its unregulated status, consumer protection and the security of funds may be concerning.

2. Limited Educational Resources: AGEA may lack comprehensive educational resources to help traders improve their skills and knowledge, potentially hindering traders' ability to make informed decisions.

3. Higher Risk: The unregulated nature of AGEA introduces a higher level of risk for traders, as there may be fewer safeguards in place to ensure the stability and security of the financial institution.

4. Potential for Longer Dispute Resolution: Resolving disputes with AGEA may be more challenging and time-consuming due to the lack of regulatory oversight, leading to delays and frustrations for traders seeking resolution.

5. Limited Market Instruments: While AGEA offers CFD trading across various asset classes, it may have fewer market instruments compared to some other brokers, limiting trading opportunities for certain traders.

Market Instruments

AGEA offers Contract for Difference (CFD) instruments as part of its market offerings. CFDs are derivative financial products that allow traders to speculate on the price movements of various underlying assets, without actually owning the assets themselves.

With CFDs, traders can take positions on a wide range of financial instruments, including currencies, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. This flexibility enables traders to diversify their portfolios and capitalize on market opportunities across different asset classes.

Account Types

AGEA offers two distinct account types: Standard and Cent.

For the Standard account, the minimum balance requirement is set at USD 100, ensuring accessibility for traders with varying capital levels. On the other hand, the Cent account presents a lower entry point with balances ranging from USD 6 to 5,000, ideal for those starting with smaller amounts.

Both account types share identical leverage options, ranging from 1:1 to 1:100, initially set at 1:100. This flexibility allows traders to adjust their positions relative to their capital, amplifying their potential gains or losses accordingly.

Neither account type imposes commissions, providing traders with a cost-effective trading environment. Additionally, trade sizes are consistent across both accounts, ranging from 1,000 to 100,000 units, enabling traders to execute trades according to their strategies and risk preferences.

How to Open an Account？

Opening an account with AGEA is a straightforward process that can be completed online in a matter of minutes. Here's a breakdown of the steps involved:

1. Visit the AGEA website and click “Open Account.”

2. Fill out the online application form: The form will request your personal information Be sure to have your identification documents (passport or ID card) and proof of address handy for uploading.

3. Fund your account: AGEA offers various deposit methods, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and e-wallets. Choose your preferred method and follow the instructions to complete the deposit.

4. Verify your account: Once your account is funded, you'll need to verify your identity and address. This typically involves submitting scanned copies of your ID documents and proof of address.

5. Start trading: Once your account is verified, you're ready to explore the AGEA trading platform and start making trades.

Service / Product Fees

1. Withdrawal by Wire Fee - $10.00: This fee is applicable when you make a withdrawal transaction through bank wire transfer. We charge $10.00 for each withdrawal processed via wire transfer.

2. Withdrawal by Electronic Money Fee - $7.00: For withdrawals processed through non-wire processors, such as electronic money services, we charge a fee of $7.00 per transaction.

3. Inactivity Fee (SUSPENDED) - $30.00 per Month: Please note that the Inactivity Fee of $30.00 per month, which applies for each 1-month period without account activity, is currently suspended. We'll notify you in advance if there are any changes to this policy.

Trading Platform

1. Streamster: Streamster is a user-friendly trading platform suitable for traders of all levels. Streamster stands out with its unique international multi-channel chat, allowing traders to discuss market trends and receive real-time customer support. It also seamlessly integrates live and virtual trading desks within a single account, ensuring consistency between demo and live trading experiences. With no balance limits or commissions, Streamster covers Crypto, Currency, Index, and Commodity CFDs, operating from Sunday 22:15 to Friday 21:00 GMT, and offers leverage ranging from 1:10 to 1:100.

2. MetaTrader 4 (MT4): MetaTrader 4 (MT4) is a customizable trading platform designed for proficient traders. It provides tools for price analysis, trade execution, and automated trading through Expert Advisors (EAs). MT4 offers various chart timeframes and built-in indicators for technical analysis. With its proprietary programming language, MQL4, traders can develop custom EAs tailored to their strategies. Supporting currency, index, and commodity CFDs, MT4 operates within the same trading hours as Streamster. Margin interest, execution types, and position limits vary between standard and cent accounts on MT4, providing flexibility for traders with different risk levels. Additionally, MT4 supports multiple account currencies, enhancing accessibility for global traders.

Deposit & Withdrawal

AGEA offers a range of deposit and withdrawal options including Bank Wire Transfer, Credit/Debit Cards, E-wallets, and Local Payment Methods such as Sofort Banking (Germany) and iDEAL (Netherlands).

1. Bank Wire Transfer: Traders can securely transfer funds to and from their AGEA accounts using bank wire transfers, providing a traditional and reliable method for depositing and withdrawing funds.

2. Credit/Debit Cards: AGEA accepts major credit and debit cards, offering a convenient and widely used method for instant deposits and withdrawals, facilitating seamless transactions for traders.

3. E-wallets: Traders can utilize various e-wallet services to deposit and withdraw funds from their AGEA accounts, providing a fast, secure, and convenient payment solution for managing their trading accounts.

4. Local Payment Methods (Sofort Banking and iDEAL): AGEA supports local payment methods such as Sofort Banking (Germany) and iDEAL (Netherlands).

Customer Support

Customer support at AGEA is comprehensive and easily accessible, ensuring traders receive assistance whenever needed.

Live Support: Traders can engage with AGEA's support team in real-time through the Live Support feature, allowing for immediate assistance with any inquiries or issues.

Phone Support: AGEA provides phone support through two contact numbers: +382 (20)664-320 and +382(20)664-320. Traders can directly reach out to speak with a representative for personalized assistance.

Email Support: For non-urgent inquiries or detailed requests, traders can contact AGEA's support team via email at support@agea.com. This allows for thorough communication and resolution of queries.

Educational Resources

AGEA offers valuable educational resources through its Latest News section, keeping traders informed about important developments and events. This section provides updates on various company announcements and actions, including notices to shareholders, invitations to general meetings, updates on voluntary dissolution procedures, and more.

By staying updated with the Latest News, traders can gain insights into the company's operations, corporate decisions, and regulatory compliance. This information can help traders make informed decisions and stay ahead of market trends.

Here are some examples of educational resources provided by AGEA through its Latest News section:

1. Notice to Shareholders on the Payment of Dividends: Traders can learn about dividend payments and their impact on the company's financial performance.

2. Invitation to General Meetings: Traders can stay informed about upcoming general meetings and participate in discussions regarding company matters.

3. Update on Voluntary Dissolution: Traders can understand the implications of voluntary dissolution procedures and how they may affect the company's future operations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, AGEA has its ups and downs:

On the positive side, AGEA has solid experience in trading, offering various account types and a low minimum deposit of USD 100, making it accessible to traders.

But there are drawbacks to consider. AGEA operates without regulation, which might worry some traders about the safety of their funds. Plus, their educational resources are limited, which could affect traders' success. The lack of regulation also means there's more risk involved, and resolving disputes may take longer.

FAQs

Question: What documents do I need to provide to verify my account？

Answer: To verify your account, you'll need to provide a copy of your identification document (such as a passport or driver's license) and proof of address (such as a utility bill or bank statement).

Question: What trading platforms does AGEA offer？

Answer: AGEA offers two main trading platforms: Streamster and MetaTrader 4 (MT4). Streamster is user-friendly and suitable for traders of all levels, while MT4 is more advanced and customizable, ideal for experienced traders.

Question: How can I deposit funds into my AGEA account？

Answer: You can deposit funds into your AGEA account using various methods, including bank wire transfer, credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and local payment methods such as Sofort Banking and iDEAL.

Question: What is the minimum deposit required to open an account？

Answer: The minimum deposit required to open an account with AGEA is USD 100. This ensures accessibility for traders with varying capital levels.

Question: Does AGEA offer educational resources for traders？

Answer: Yes, AGEA provides educational resources to help traders improve their skills and knowledge. These resources include articles, tutorials, webinars, and market analysis tools.

Question: How can I contact AGEA's customer support？

Answer: You can contact AGEA's customer support team through live chat, phone (+382 (20)664-320), or email (support@agea.com). Our support team is available to assist you with any inquiries or issues you may have.