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, and regulated by CNMV under license number 3427

• 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.

However, with such a large number of instruments available, it can be overwhelming for beginner traders and may require more in-depth knowledge of multiple asset classes and their underlying factors to create effective trading strategies. Additionally, some instruments may have low liquidity or high volatility, leading to higher risks, and certain instruments may have high spreads or commissions, increasing trading costs.

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.

Remember, HFM also offers a demo account for practicing trading strategies without risking real money. It's recommended to start there if you're new to trading or this platform.

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.

Overall, the maximum leverage offered by HFM can be a valuable tool for traders, but it must be used responsibly and with caution.

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.

In addition, the date on which this review was generated may also be an important factor to consider, as information may have changed since then. Therefore, readers are advised to always verify updated information directly with the company before making any decision or taking any action. Responsibility for the use of the information provided in this review rests solely with the reader.

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.

Overview of FXCC

FXCC (Forex Central Clearing Ltd) is a brokerage firm specializing in foreign exchange (forex) trading. Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Limassol, Cyprus, FXCC is regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) under license number 121/10, ensuring compliance with financial and operational standards to safeguard client interests.

With a focus on providing a robust trading experience, FXCC offers a diverse range of tradable assets, including forex pairs, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies. Traders can access major, minor, and exotic currency pairs, enabling them to diversify their portfolios and explore various market opportunities.

FXCC caters to different trading preferences by offering multiple account types. These include standard accounts, ECN (Electronic Communication Network) accounts, and Islamic accounts suitable for traders adhering to Shariah principles. Each account type may have specific features and trading conditions tailored to meet the needs of different traders.

Is FXCC regulated？

FXCC (Forex Central Clearing Ltd) is a regulated brokerage firm. It is authorized and regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) under license number 121/10 and Nevis with registration number C 55272. Being regulated by CySEC signifies that FXCC operates in compliance with the regulatory framework and standards set forth by the CySEC.

Regulation by CySEC is significant as it ensures that the company adheres to strict financial and operational guidelines designed to protect the interests of clients. It includes measures such as segregation of client funds, ensuring transparency in pricing and execution, and implementing risk management protocols.

The regulatory oversight provided by CySEC aims to maintain the integrity of the financial markets and foster a fair and secure trading environment for investors. It also offers a certain level of recourse for clients in case of disputes or issues that may arise during the course of their trading activities.

Pros and Cons

FXCC, a regulated broker authorized by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), offers several advantages and disadvantages. On the positive side, FXCC provides a wide range of tradable assets, including forex, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies, allowing for diversification and trading opportunities. The broker also offers competitive leverage ratios, multiple trading platforms such as MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5), and various channels of customer support, ensuring prompt assistance.

However, some drawbacks include limited account types, a non-transparent fee structure that may make it challenging for traders to understand costs, limited educational resources compared to other brokers, limited bonus offerings, and the possibility of withdrawal fees. Traders should carefully consider these factors and conduct their own research to determine if FXCC aligns with their specific needs and preferences.

Market Instruments

FXCC offers a range of market instruments for trading. Here are some common market instruments that the company typically provides:

Forex Currency Pairs: FXCC specializes in forex trading and offers a wide selection of currency pairs. This includes major currency pairs like EUR/USD, GBP/USD, and USD/JPY, as well as minor and exotic currency pairs such as USD/ZAR or AUD/NZD. These currency pairs allow traders to participate in the global foreign exchange market and take advantage of currency fluctuations.

Commodities: FXCC may provide trading opportunities in various commodities such as gold, silver, crude oil, natural gas, and agricultural products. Trading commodities allows investors to speculate on the price movements of these tangible assets, which are influenced by factors such as supply and demand dynamics, geopolitical events, and economic indicators.

Indices: FXCC may offer trading on popular stock market indices like the S&P 500, Dow Jones Industrial Average, FTSE 100, or Nikkei 225. Trading indices allows investors to gain exposure to a basket of stocks representing a particular market or sector, providing opportunities to profit from the overall performance of the index.

Cryptocurrencies: As cryptocurrencies gain popularity, FXCC may provide trading opportunities in digital currencies such as Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), and others. Trading cryptocurrencies allows investors to speculate on their price movements without owning the underlying assets.

Main Account Types

FXCC typically offers multiple account types to cater to different trading preferences, including ECN XL Accounts in either Standard Account type Islamic Account type. While the specific account types may be subject to change or updates, the website primarily provides information on the ENC XL Account type. Here is a short description of ENC XL Accounts and each common account type that FXCC may provide:

ECN XL Accounts: ECN (Electronic Communication Network) XL accounts are known for providing direct market access. These accounts typically offer tighter spreads and faster order execution since they connect traders directly to liquidity providers, such as banks and financial institutions. ECN accounts may have variable spreads and charge a commission per trade.

Standard Accounts: Standard accounts are designed for traders who prefer a straightforward trading experience. These accounts typically have fixed or variable spreads and may require a minimum deposit to open. They offer access to the available tradable instruments and basic trading features.

Islamic Accounts: FXCC may offer Islamic accounts for traders who adhere to Shariah principles. Islamic accounts operate in compliance with Islamic finance principles, ensuring that no interest (swap) charges are applied on overnight positions. These accounts may have specific terms and conditions to meet Shariah requirements.

According to their website, the main type of account launched is the ECN XL type. The ECN XL type is described as including no minimum deposit with a 100% first deposit bonus, a Lot Size of 0.01 and a 1:500 max leverage. The ECN XL account also allows hedging as well as gives the option between a Standard Account and an Islamic Account.

In conclusion, FXCCs offered ECN XL account gives primary deposit incentive, the ability to hedge funds, and a choice between two account types.

Set-by-set on opening an account

1. Visit the FXCC official website: Use a web browser to navigate to the official website of FXCC. (https://www.fxcc.com/)

2. Locate the “Open Account” button: Look for a prominent button or link on the website's homepage that leads to the account registration process. It's often located in the top right corner or the main navigation menu.

3. Choose the account type: Select the desired account type based on your trading preferences and requirements. FXCC may offer different account options, such as standard accounts, ECN accounts, or Islamic accounts. Review the account types available and choose the one that suits you best.

Leverage

FXCC typically provides leverage ratios ranging from 1:1 up to 1:500. However, it's important to note that leverage requirements can be subject to change and may be adjusted based on regulatory guidelines and market conditions.

Spreads & Commissions (Trading Fees)

The specific trading fees charged by FXCC can vary depending on various factors such as the type of account, trading instruments, and market conditions. A spread commission, also known as a spread markup, is a fee charged by a broker for executing trades on behalf of traders. It is a common pricing model used in financial markets, particularly in forex trading. FXCC typically charges spreads, which is the difference between the bid and ask price of a trading instrument. Spreads can vary based on market liquidity, volatility, and the type of account. ECN accounts usually have tighter spreads compared to standard accounts but may charge a commission per trade. ECN accounts at FXCC may have a commission structure where a fixed fee is charged per lot traded. This commission is separate from the spreads and is applicable to trades executed in ECN account types. The specific spread and commission rates can vary based on the account type, trading instrument, and market conditions. Traders should carefully review the details provided by FXCC to understand the applicable spreads and commissions for their trading activities. It's important to consider the spread and commission model, along with other factors such as execution speed and overall trading conditions, when assessing the cost of trading with FXCC.

Bonuses

Typically, FXCC offers bonuses which may include welcome bonuses for new clients, deposit bonuses that provide additional funds based on the amount deposited, and loyalty or referral bonuses for existing clients who refer new traders or maintain a long-term relationship with the broker. These bonuses can provide traders with additional trading capital or rewards, potentially enhancing their trading experience.

It's important for traders to thoroughly review the terms and conditions associated with any bonuses offered by FXCC, as there are usually requirements that need to be fulfilled before the bonus can be withdrawn. Such requirements may include minimum trading volumes, specific timeframes, or other criteria set by the broker.

Trading Platform

FXCC typically offers popular trading platforms to its clients. While the specific platforms provided may vary or evolve over time, here are some common trading platforms that FXCC may offer:

MetaTrader 4 (MT4): MT4 is a widely used and highly regarded trading platform in the industry. It offers a user-friendly interface, advanced charting tools, a wide range of technical indicators, and automated trading capabilities through Expert Advisors (EAs). MT4 is known for its stability, customization options, and extensive community support.

Multi Account Manager (MAM): MAM is a money manager that can execute trades on the master account, and those trades are automatically replicated in the connected client accounts. This allows for efficient management and execution of trades across multiple accounts without the need to individually place trades for each client.

Deposit & Withdrawal

FXCC's minimum deposit requirement typically starts from $100 or its equivalent in other currencies. However, it's important to note that the minimum deposit amount can vary based on the chosen account type and the payment method used. Different account types may have different minimum deposit requirements, and certain payment methods may have their own minimum deposit limits imposed by the respective payment processors.

FXCC may charge withdrawal fees, but the exact fees and conditions can vary depending on several factors, including the withdrawal method, the account type, and the amount being withdrawn. It's advisable to review the information provided on the official FXCC website or contact their customer support directly for the most accurate and up-to-date details regarding withdrawal fees.

Customer Support

FXCC offers customer support to assist their clients with inquiries, technical issues, and other concerns. The company provides various channels through which customers can reach their customer support team. Here are some common customer support options provided by FXCC:

Phone Support: FXCC may offer phone support, allowing customers to directly speak with a representative. The contact numbers for phone support are typically provided on their website or in the client portal. Customers can call the provided phone numbers during the specified working hours to seek assistance.

Email Support: Customers can contact FXCC's customer support team via email. This method allows customers to describe their queries or issues in detail and receive a response from the support team. The email address for support is typically available on the FXCC website.

Live Chat: FXCC may offer a live chat feature on their website. This enables customers to engage in real-time text-based conversations with a support representative. Live chat is often preferred for its convenience and quick response times.

Online Contact Form: Some brokers, including FXCC, may provide an online contact form on their website. Customers can fill out the form with their details and submit their queries or concerns. The support team will then respond via email or the preferred communication method.

Educational Resources

FXCC may offer a range of educational resources to assist traders in enhancing their knowledge and skills. Here are some potential education resources that FXCC may provide:

Video Tutorials: FXCC may offer video tutorials covering various trading topics, including platform tutorials, trading strategies, technical analysis, and risk management. These videos can provide visual and step-by-step guidance for traders.

Webinars: FXCC may conduct webinars on a regular basis, featuring market experts and experienced traders. Webinars can cover a wide range of topics, including market analysis, trading techniques, and risk management. Participating in webinars allows traders to gain insights and interact with industry professionals.

Trading Tools: FXCC may provide traders with access to trading tools, such as economic calendars, market analysis tools, and indicators. These tools can help traders make informed trading decisions and analyze market trends.

eBooks: FXCC may offer educational eBooks covering various aspects of trading, including trading psychology, technical analysis, fundamental analysis, and risk management. eBooks provide in-depth information and can be a valuable resource for traders of different experience levels.

Glossaries: FXCC may provide a glossary of trading terms and definitions. This can be helpful for new traders or those who want to clarify specific trading terminology.

Trading Academies: FXCC may have a dedicated trading academy or educational section on their website. These academies often provide structured learning materials, courses, quizzes, and interactive learning resources to help traders develop their skills.

Market Insights: FXCC may offer regular market insights, including market analysis, daily/weekly market summaries, and economic news updates. These insights can provide traders with a better understanding of market trends and potential trading opportunities.

Conclusion

FXCC is a regulated forex broker headquartered in Cyprus. They offer a wide range of financial services, including forex, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies. Traders can access these markets through popular platforms like MT4 and MT5. With multiple account types and competitive leverage ratios, FXCC caters to different trading preferences. They provide customer support via phone, email, live chat, and online forms. FXCC also offers educational resources such as tutorials, webinars, and market insights.

FAQs

Q: Is FXCC a regulated broker？

A: Yes, FXCC is a regulated broker authorized and supervised by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC).

Q: What is the minimum deposit requirement at FXCC？

A: The minimum deposit requirement at FXCC typically starts from $100 or its equivalent in other currencies, although it may vary based on the chosen account type.

Q: What trading platforms does FXCC offer？

A: FXCC offers popular trading platforms such as MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5), providing traders with a reliable and feature-rich trading environment.

Q: Can I trade multiple asset classes with FXCC？

A: Yes, FXCC offers a range of tradable assets including forex, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies, allowing traders to diversify their portfolios.

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

A: You can reach FXCC's customer support through various channels, including phone support, email support, live chat on their website, or by filling out an online contact form.