Saxo Review Summary in 10 Points
Founded	1992
Headquarters	Hellerup, Denmark
Regulation	ASIC, FCA, FSA, SFC, BDF, CONSOB, FINMA, MAS
Market Instruments	Forex, stocks, futures, options, bonds, ETFs and CFDs
Demo Account	Available
Leverage	1:100
EUR/USD Spread	0.4 pips
Trading Platforms	SaxoInvestor, SaxoTraderGO, SaxoTraderPRO
Minimum deposit	HKD10,000
Customer Support	24/5 phone, email

What is Saxo？

Saxo is a Danish investment bank founded in 1992. It provides online trading and investment services in multiple assets, including stocks, bonds, forex, options, futures, and CFDs, through its proprietary trading platforms. The bank operates in over 100 countries and has offices in major financial centers worldwide, including Copenhagen, London, Singapore, and Tokyo. Saxo Bank is regulated by several financial authorities, including the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority, the UK Financial Conduct Authority, and the Monetary Authority of Singapore. The bank also has a banking license and is a member of the Danish guarantee fund for depositors and investors.

What Type of Broker is Saxo？

Saxo is a multi-asset broker that offers access to a wide range of financial instruments, including forex, stocks, bonds, ETFs, futures, options, and more. The broker provides trading services through its advanced trading platforms and caters to both retail and institutional clients. Saxo operates as a hybrid broker, offering both direct market access (DMA) and market making services.

Pros & Cons

Saxo is a well-established and reputable broker with a range of trading platforms, instruments, and research tools.

However, the broker's high fees, minimum deposit requirement, and lack of negative balance protection may not be suitable for all traders. Additionally, some users have reported poor customer service experiences.

Pros	Cons
• Wide range of financial instruments available	• High minimum deposit requirement
• Access to multiple markets and exchanges	• Fees and commissions may be higher than competitors
• User-friendly trading platforms	• Inactivity fee for dormant accounts
• Advanced trading tools and research	• Limited educational resources
• Regulated by top-tier financial authorities	• Limited customer support options

Overall, it is important for traders to carefully consider their own needs and preferences before choosing Saxo or any other broker.

Saxo Alternative Brokers

There are many alternative brokers to Saxo, each with their own unique features and benefits. Some popular alternatives include:

• Interactive Brokers: A well-established broker with a wide range of trading instruments and low commissions.

• TD Ameritrade: Offers a powerful trading platform and a variety of educational resources.

• E*TRADE: A popular broker with a user-friendly platform and no account minimums.

• IG: A global leader in online trading, offering a wide range of markets and advanced trading tools.

• Plus500: A broker known for its user-friendly platform and tight spreads.

Ultimately, the best alternative broker for you will depend on your specific trading needs and preferences. It's important to research and compare different brokers to find the one that best fits your individual needs.

Is Saxo Safe or Scam？

Saxo is a legitimate and reputable broker with a long track record of providing reliable trading services. It is regulated by top-tier financial authorities such as the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK and the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority (DFSA). Additionally, Saxo is a member of several investor protection funds, such as the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) in the UK, which protects clients' funds up to a certain amount in case of the broker's insolvency. Therefore, based on its regulation and investor protection measures, Saxo can be considered a legitimate broker.

How are you protected？

Saxo is a regulated broker, with licenses from multiple reputable regulatory authorities and a long-standing history of providing financial services. The broker takes extensive measures to protect client funds, including segregating them from the company's assets and offering negative balance protection.

Additionally, Saxo offers various security features, such as two-factor authentication and encryption, to ensure secure trading.

More details can be found in the table below:

Security Measures	Description
Regulation	FSA, FINMA, FCA, ASIC, DFSA
Segregated Accounts	Client funds are held in segregated bank accounts to protect them in case of insolvency.
Two-Factor Authentication	As an extra layer of security for client accounts
SSL Encryption	The Saxo website and platform are secured with SSL encryption to protect user data
Investor Compensation Scheme	A member of the Danish Investor Compensation Scheme, which provides additional protection to clients in case of insolvency

It's important to note that while these measures provide some level of protection for clients, there is always some level of risk involved in trading financial instruments, and clients should always be aware of the risks before making any trades.

Our Conclusion on Saxo Reliability:

Based on the information available, Saxo appears to be a reliable and trustworthy broker. It is regulated by reputable authorities, has been in operation for several years. However, we also find that some users complain about their bad experience with Saxo. Take care!

Market Instruments

Saxo offers a wide range of trading instruments across multiple asset classes, including

• Forex: More than 180 currency pairs, including majors, minors, and exotics.

• Stocks: Over 40,000 stocks from 36 global exchanges, including NYSE, NASDAQ, LSE, and more.

• Futures: Over 200 futures and options across a variety of asset classes such as commodities, indices, and bonds.

• Options: A wide range of options on stocks, indices, and futures.

• Bonds: Trade a wide range of government and corporate bonds, including sovereign bonds from developed and emerging markets.

• ETFs and CFDs: Access to over 3,000 ETFs and CFDs on indices, commodities, and stocks.

Accounts

Saxo offers a range of account types designed to suit the different needs of its clients. The account types offered by Saxo are:

• Classic Account: A traditional account with minimum funding of HKD10,000, which offers a range of trading tools and resources.

• Platinum Account: A premium account for high-net-worth individuals, with a minimum funding requirement of HKD 1,500,000.

• VIP Account: An exclusive account for ultra-high-net-worth individuals, with a minimum funding requirement of HKD 8,000,000.

• Islamic Account: A Sharia-compliant account for clients who follow Islamic finance principles.

• Corporate Account: An account for companies, partnerships, and other legal entities.

• Joint Account: An account for two or more individuals who want to trade together.

Each account type has its own unique features and benefits, such as lower pricing, higher leverage, and dedicated account managers. Saxo also offers a free demo account for clients to practice trading before committing to a live account.

Opening an account with Saxo Bank

It takes only about five minutes and a short online form to open an account. Clients will need to submit the standard verification documents required by KYC and AML rules, but the procedure should be quick and easy, and they will have access to their account in minutes.

Leverage

Saxo offers leverage up to 1:100 for forex trading. Professional clients are entitled to leverage of 1:40 for the primary index, 1:33 for the secondary index, 1:33 for gold, 1:10 for equities, and 1:25 for commodities. Retail clients are entitled to leverage of 1:20 for the primary index, 1:10 for the secondary index, 1:20 for gold, 1:5 for equities and 1:10 for commodities.

However, the maximum leverage may vary depending on the instrument being traded and the client's location. It is important to note that trading with high leverage carries a higher level of risk, and traders should always exercise caution and use risk management strategies.

Spreads & Commissions

Saxo offers variable spreads, which means that the spreads can change depending on market conditions. The typical minimum spreads for popular instruments are as follows:

EUR/USD: 0.4 pips

USD/JPY: 0.6 pips

GBP/USD: 0.9 pips

AUD/USD: 0.6 pips

USD/CHF: 1.2 pips

USD/CAD: 1.5 pips

Saxo also charges commissions on some products, including stocks, ETFs, and futures. The commission fees vary depending on the specific market and the size of the trade. Commissions start at $3 per share for equities, as low as $0.85 per lot for commodities, and $3 per share for ETFs. Futures commissions start as low as $0.85 per lot, bonds commissions start at 0.05%, listed options commissions start as low as $1.25 per lot, and mutual funds commissions are $0 for custody and platform fees.

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

Broker	EUR/USD Spread	Commission per lot
Saxo	0.4 pips	$3
Interactive Brokers	0.1 pips	$2
TD Ameritrade	0.7 pips	free
E*TRADE	1.0 pips	free
IG	0.75 pips	free
Plus500	0.8 pips	free

Please note that commission rates may vary depending on the specific account type and trading volume. Additionally, some brokers may offer different spreads and commissions for other currency pairs or financial instruments. It's important to do your own research and carefully consider the costs and fees of each broker before making a decision.

Trading Platforms

Saxo offers its own proprietary trading platform called SaxoTraderGO. It is a web-based platform that can be accessed from any device with an internet connection. In addition to SaxoTraderGO, Saxo also offers SaxoTraderPRO, a desktop-based trading platform that is designed for advanced traders who require additional functionality.

SaxoTraderGO is highly customizable, allowing traders to arrange the interface to suit their preferences. It provides access to a wide range of trading tools and features, including charting tools, technical analysis indicators, and news feeds. The platform also includes a comprehensive range of order types, including market, limit, stop, and trailing stop orders.

SaxoTraderPRO is a professional-grade trading platform that offers advanced trading tools and features. It is designed for active traders and includes a range of tools that allow traders to monitor multiple markets and instruments simultaneously. The platform also includes advanced charting tools and a range of order types, including conditional orders and algorithmic trading capabilities.

Saxo also offers SaxoInvestor, which is a user-friendly trading platform suitable for beginner investors who are interested in a wide range of asset classes. It provides a simple and intuitive interface with basic research tools and features, making it easy for investors to buy and sell stocks, ETFs, bonds, and mutual funds. However, advanced traders may find the platform's lack of advanced tools and customization options limiting.

Overall, Saxo's trading platforms are well-designed, user-friendly, and offer a range of advanced features suitable for both beginner and experienced traders. See the trading platform comparison table below:

Broker	Trading Platform
Saxo	SaxoTraderGO, SaxoTraderPRO, SaxoInvestor
Interactive Brokers	Trader Workstation, WebTrader, IBKR Mobile
TD Ameritrade	Thinkorswim, Web Platform, TD Ameritrade Mobile App
E*TRADE	Power E*TRADE, E*TRADE Web, E*TRADE Mobile
IG	IG Trading Platform, IG Web Platform, IG Trading App
Plus500	Plus500 WebTrader, Plus500 Mobile App

Deposits & Withdrawals

Saxo Bank supports several deposit and withdrawal methods, including Visa, MasterCard, Visa Debit, Visa Electron, MasterCard Debit, Maestro (for UK residents), Visa Dankort (for Denmark residents), Carte Bleue (for France residents). The company does not charge any fees for deposits and withdrawals, but if an investor makes a withdrawal request via manual withdrawal, a processing fee of 40 EUR will be charged.

Minimum deposit requirement

Saxo has different minimum deposit requirements depending on the type of account you open and your country of residence. For example, the minimum deposit for the Classic account is HKD10,000.

However, these amounts can vary depending on your location and the specific account type. It's important to check with Saxo directly or on their website for the most up-to-date information on minimum deposit requirements.

Saxo minimum deposit vs other brokers

	Saxo	Most other
Minimum Deposit	HKD10,000	$100

Saxo Money Withdrawal

To withdraw funds from your Saxo account, you need to follow these steps:

Step 1: Log in to your Saxo account using your credentials.

Step 2: Click on the “Account” tab located on the top right corner of the screen.

Step 3: Click on “Withdraw Funds” from the account menu options.

Step 4: Select the account you wish to withdraw funds from, enter the amount you want to withdraw, and select the currency you want to withdraw in.

Step 5: Choose the preferred withdrawal method from the available options and provide the necessary details such as bank account information or credit/debit card information.

Step 6: Review the details of your withdrawal request and click on “Submit.”

Note that Saxo may require additional verification or documentation before processing your withdrawal request. The processing time for withdrawals may vary depending on the chosen method and your bank's processing time.

Fees

Swap costs, sometimes called overnight fees, are assessed on overnight open positions at Saxo Bank. These are expressed as interest and, depending on the trader's position, might be either charged to or credited to his or her account.

Traders of the Muslim faith, for whom the payment of interest is forbidden, are out of luck with Saxo Bank because they don't have the option of opening an Islamic account. With the wide variety of deposit currencies offered by Saxo Bank, customers will have a decreased chance of incurring conversion fees.

Amounts credited to your account are converted from their original currency at the mid-point FX Spot rate plus/minus the margins and spreads indicated below. This includes both trading fees and profits/losses incurred as a result of your trading activities.

Fees for account inactivity are also a reality for inactive accounts. After the initial six months, the rate increased to $150, which is quite a bit.

See the fee comparison table below:

Broker	Deposit Fee	Withdrawal Fee	Inactivity Fee
Saxo	Free	Free	$150 after six months of inactivity
Interactive Brokers	Free	$0-$10	$20/month if account balance < $2,000
TD Ameritrade	Free	Free	Free
E*TRADE	Free	$0-$25	Free
IG	Free	Free	$18/month after 24 months of inactivity
Plus500	Free	Free	$10/month after 3 months of inactivity

Customer Service

Saxo provides customer support through several channels, including phone, email, and social media (Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube). The broker offers 24/5 customer service in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Saxo also provides a comprehensive help center on its website that includes an extensive knowledge base, FAQs, trading guides, and video tutorials. The broker's customer service is generally considered to be of high quality, with knowledgeable representatives who are responsive and helpful.

Pros	Cons
• 24/5 customer service through multiple channels	• No 24/7 support service
• Dedicated support for VIP clients	• Phone support may have long wait times
• Extensive FAQ section on the website	• No dedicated account manager for non-VIP clients
• Personalized support for complex trading needs	• No local offices in some countries
• Multilingual support available for non-English users

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

Education

Saxo Bank provides excellent market research in addition to a wealth of instructional resources like video courses, webinars, and events. Saxo Bank's SaxoStrats Experts group consists of eight analysts and strategists who are tasked with providing coverage of the various asset classes available to customers. It's apparent that this broker places a high value on its research team and recognizes the significance of this service, both for its clients and as a global investment bank. The classes are a wonderful way for newcomers to get their feet wet and become acquainted with the resources that are at their disposal. Videos are easy to follow and understand, helping novice traders quickly get up to speed and lay a solid groundwork from which to expand their knowledge. Saxo Bank specialists will be hosting webinars.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Saxo is a well-established broker. The broker offers a wide range of trading instruments, including forex, stocks, options, futures, and CFDs, and provides access to various markets worldwide. Saxo also offers an advanced trading platform and a user-friendly mobile app, making it easy for traders to access the markets on the go.

While Saxo has some of the highest fees in the industry, the broker's competitive spreads and tight execution make it a popular choice for traders. Additionally, Saxo's robust educational resources and customer support make it an ideal choice for traders of all skill levels who want to improve their knowledge and skills in trading.

Overall, Saxo is a multi-asset broker that offers a comprehensive suite of trading tools and services to help traders achieve their investment goals. However, potential clients should carefully consider the fees and minimum deposit requirements before opening an account. Also, dont forget check their user reviews on the Internet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q 1:	Is Saxo regulated？
A 1:	Yes. It is regulated by ASIC, FCA, FSA, SFC, BDF, CONSOB, FINMA, MAS.

Q 2:	Does Saxo offer demo accounts？
A 2:	Yes.

Q 3:	Does Saxo offer the industry-standard MT4 & MT5？
A 3:	No. Instead, it offers SaxoInvestor, SaxoTraderGO, and SaxoTraderPRO.

Q 4:	What is the minimum deposit for Saxo？
A 4:	The minimum initial deposit to open an account isHKD10,000.

Q 5:	Is Saxo a good broker for beginners？
A 5:	Yes. It is a good choice for beginners because it is regulated well and offers various trading instruments with competitive trading conditions. Also, it offers demo accounts that allow traders to practice trading without risking any real money.

Aspect	Information
Registered Country/Area	Japan
Founded year	2005
Company Name	Matsui Securities Co., Ltd.
Regulation	Regulated in Japan
Minimum Deposit	Not specified
Maximum Leverage	Not specified
Spreads	Not specified
Trading Platforms	Japanese Equity App, U.S. Stocks App, Investment Trust App, Forex App, Futures OP App, Netstock High Speed, FX Trader Plus
Tradable assets	Japanese stocks, US stocks, mutual funds, FX, futures/options, NISA/Tsumitate NISA, iDeCo, Japanese equities products, MMF, ETFs/REITs
Account Types	Not specified
Demo Account	Not specified
Customer Support	Email: kouza-kaisetsu@matsui.co.jp
Payment Methods	Netlink Deposit, Deposit Transfer, Time Deposit, Bank Transfer Deposit
Educational Tools	“Learn to Invest” program

Overview of Matsui

Matsui Securities Co., Ltd. is a regulated brokerage firm based in Japan. It holds a Retail Forex License and operates under the jurisdiction of the Kanto Local Finance Bureau. The company has been in operation for 15-20 years and has a good capital ratio, indicating its financial stability. Matsui Securities has established partnerships with various financial institutions, including NatWest, XTX Markets, Deutsche Bank AG, HSBC, Morgan Stanley, and others.

Matsui Securities offers a range of investment products and services. It provides access to the Japanese stock market, allowing investors to trade stocks listed on Japanese exchanges in real-time. Additionally, the company offers the opportunity to trade US stocks, mutual funds, foreign exchange, futures, options, NISA/Tsumitate NISA accounts, iDeCo retirement savings plans, Japanese equities products, money market funds, and ETFs/REITs.

To open an account with Matsui Securities, interested individuals can visit the company's website and follow the account opening process. The brokerage charges fees and commissions based on the specific trading services and products used. Deposit and withdrawal options are available through methods such as Netlink Deposit, Deposit Transfer, Time Deposit, and Bank Transfer Deposit.

Matsui Securities provides a range of trading platforms, including smartphone apps dedicated to Japanese stocks, US stocks, investment trusts, and forex trading. It also offers platforms for futures and options trading, as well as PC/tablet-based platforms for comprehensive trading features.

Overall, Matsui Securities Co., Ltd. is a regulated brokerage firm in Japan, offering a variety of investment options and trading services to investors.

Pros and Cons

Matsui Securities Co., Ltd is a financial institution that offers a range of investment services in Japan. While Matsui Securities has certain advantages, it also has some limitations to consider. On the positive side, Matsui Securities is regulated by the Financial Services Agency, ensuring compliance with financial regulations. Additionally, the company holds a Retail Forex License and provides access to Japanese and US stocks, facilitating diversification. Matsui Securities also offers tax-advantaged investment accounts, such as NISA and iDeCo, and various deposit and withdrawal options. However, it is important to note that the company has limited information available on its website and email address, and there is a lack of transparency regarding fees, commissions, and withdrawal details. The contact options are limited to email, and there is limited information about customer support. The company's trading platforms and capital ratio also have limited details. To summarize, while Matsui Securities offers certain benefits, prospective customers should carefully evaluate its limitations before making investment decisions.

Pros	Cons
Regulated by the Financial Services Agency in Japan	Limited information available about the company's website and email address
Holds a Retail Forex License	No information provided about the expiry date of the license
Offers access to Japanese and US stocks	Lack of transparency regarding fees and commissions for different services
Provides tax-advantaged investment accounts (NISA and iDeCo)	Limited contact options (only email provided)
Wide range of Japanese equities products and trading services	No information about withdrawal fees and limits
Various deposit and withdrawal options	Limited details about the trading platforms offered

Is Matsui Legit？

Based on the information provided, Matsui Securities Co., Ltd. (松井証券株式会社) is regulated by the Financial Services Agency in Japan. It holds a Retail Forex License and is regulated under the jurisdiction of the Kanto Local Finance Bureau (関東財務局長(金商)第164号). The effective date of the license is September 30, 2007.

However, there is no information available regarding the expiry date, website, or email address of Matsui Securities Co., Ltd. The company's address is located in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, at 1-4 Kojimachi. The phone number provided for the licensed institution is 0352160606.

Market Instruments

Japanese stocks:

Matsui Securities provides investors with access to the Japanese stock market, allowing them to trade stocks listed on Japanese exchanges through spot trading. This enables investors to buy and sell shares of Japanese companies in real-time, taking advantage of market movements.

US stocks:

In addition to Japanese stocks, Matsui Securities also offers investors the opportunity to trade US stocks. This means that investors can access major US stock exchanges and trade shares of American companies, providing diversification and exposure to international markets.

Mutual fund:

Matsui Securities offers mutual funds as an investment option. Mutual funds pool money from multiple investors to invest in a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, or other assets. By investing in a mutual fund, investors can gain exposure to a wide range of securities, managed by professional fund managers.

FX (Foreign Exchange):

Matsui Securities facilitates foreign exchange trading, allowing investors to trade currencies. Foreign exchange trading involves buying and selling different currencies with the aim of profiting from fluctuations in exchange rates. This service provides opportunities for investors to engage in currency speculation and hedge against foreign exchange risks.

Futures/Options:

Matsui Securities offers futures and options trading. Futures contracts are agreements to buy or sell assets at a predetermined price and date in the future, while options contracts provide the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell assets. These derivative instruments allow investors to speculate on price movements and manage risk in various financial markets.

NISA/Tsumitate NISA:

Matsui Securities provides the NISA (Nippon Individual Savings Account) and Tsumitate NISA services. These are tax-advantaged investment accounts in Japan that encourage long-term investing by offering tax exemptions on capital gains and dividends. Investors can contribute to these accounts annually and invest in various financial products.

iDeCo:

Matsui Securities offers the Individual Defined Contribution Pension (iDeCo) system. iDeCo is a retirement savings plan in Japan that provides tax advantages for individuals. It allows investors to contribute a portion of their income towards retirement and invest in a range of financial instruments, aiming to grow their retirement savings.

Japanese equities Products and trading services:

Matsui Securities provides a wide array of Japanese equities products and trading services. This includes offerings such as initial public offerings (IPOs) and public offerings (POs), which allow investors to participate in the primary market and buy shares of newly listed companies. Additionally, the company provides stock lending services, off-auction distribution, PTS (Proprietary Trading System) for alternative trading, and other services related to Japanese equities.

MMF (Money Market Funds):

Matsui Securities offers money market funds, which are low-risk investment vehicles that invest in short-term, highly liquid assets such as Treasury bills, commercial paper, and certificates of deposit. Money market funds provide investors with a relatively stable investment option and easy access to cash.

ETFs/REITs:

Matsui Securities offers exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and real estate investment trusts (REITs). ETFs are investment funds that trade on stock exchanges, tracking the performance of a specific index or sector. REITs, on the other hand, allow investors to pool their money to invest in a portfolio of income-generating real estate properties. These investment options provide diversification and exposure to different asset classes.

Pros	Cons
Access to Japanese stock market	Limited information about the company's website and email address
Facilitates foreign exchange trading	No information provided about fees and commissions
Offers iDeCo retirement savings plan	Limited contact options (only email provided)
Provides NISA and Tsumitate NISA services	Limited information about the company's capital ratio and influence

How to Open an Account？

To open an account with Matsui Securities, you can follow these steps:

1. Visit the Matsui Securities website and click on the “口座開設(無料)account opening” link, which means “Account Opening (Free)”.

2. Depending on your customer type, choose the appropriate option. Matsui Securities offers account opening for private customers, minors, and corporate customers.

3. On the website, you can find a flowchart explaining the steps involved in the account opening process. This will give you an overview of the entire procedure.

4. If you are interested in opening a NISA account, there is a separate section where you can check the process specific to NISA accounts.

5. Prepare the necessary documents for account verification, such as your My Number verification documents and separate identity verification documents.

6. In Step 1 of the application process, you will be prompted to select the application method. Follow the instructions provided on the website.

7. In Step 2, you will need to register your email address as part of the application process.

8. Once you complete Step 3, your email address registration will be considered completed, and the application process will be finished online. You will be able to start trading within as little as three days.

9. Alternatively, you can choose to apply by mailing the application form provided by Matsui Securities. In this case, the process may take around one week.

10. Matsui Securities will send you the necessary application form based on the information you have entered during the online application process.

Fees & Commissions

Physical Trading: The commission for physical trading is determined by the total daily contract price of the exchange and PTS trading. The fee is fixed within certain ranges based on the total daily contract price, irrespective of the trading volume.

Japanese Stocks Spot Trading: The fees for spot trading and margin trading are determined by the total contract price for one day. The fees are fixed and do not depend on the trading frequency. There are different fee tiers based on the total contract price, ranging from 0 yen to 100,000 yen for individuals aged 26 and above.

Margin Trading: Margin trading fees depend on the total contract price for one day. There are different fee tiers based on the total contract price, ranging from 0 yen to 100,000 yen for individuals aged 26 and above. There are also specific commission systems for margin trading with a NISA account, trading less than one unit of shares, buying off-auction shares, and telephone transactions.

Improvement Success Fee: When the contract price improves, an improvement success fee is charged, which is calculated as 30% (33% including tax) of the improved contract price. There is no minimum commission for this fee.

IPO and PO: There is no purchase fee for IPO (Initial Public Offering) and PO (Public Offering/Secondary Offering). However, a fee will be charged at the time of sale.

Off-Auction Distribution: There is no purchase fee for off-auction distribution, but a fee will be charged at the time of sale.

Fractional Shares: A fee of 0.5% (0.55% including tax) of the contract price is charged for fractional shares. There is no minimum commission for this fee, and transactions over the phone have a different fee structure.

Profit and Loss Accounting Support Service: A fee of 2 times (2.2 times including tax) the contract price is charged for the Profit and Loss Accounting Support Service. The minimum fee is 4,950 yen (tax included).

US Stocks: Trading fees for US stocks are determined based on the contract price per trade. The fee is 0.45% (0.495% including tax) of the contract price, with a minimum fee of USD 0 and a maximum fee of 20 USD (22 USD including tax).

Mutual Fund: There is no purchase fee for mutual funds.

FX: There is no commission fee for FX trading.

Futures and Options Trading: Fees for futures and options trading vary depending on the specific contracts. The fees are calculated based on the contract price and range from 0.04% to 1.5% (including tax), with minimum fees ranging from 1,100 yen to 11,000 yen (tax included).

NISA/Tsumitate NISA: There is no trading commission fee for NISA and Junior NISA accounts. There is also no purchase fee for investment trusts within these accounts.

Telephone Transaction Fee: A fee is charged for each contract in telephone transactions. The fees vary depending on the type of transaction, such as Japanese stocks, improvement success fee, fractional shares, and futures and options trading.

Pros	Cons
Transparent fee structure for physical trading, Japanese stocks spot trading, and margin trading	Lack of information about fees for specific types of transactions
No commission fee for FX trading	Limited details about fees for IPO and off-auction distribution
No purchase fee for mutual funds	Lack of information about trading commission fees for NISA and telephone transactions
Reasonable fee tiers based on the total contract price for various trading services	No information about fees for profit and loss accounting support service
No minimum commission for improvement success fee	Limited details about fees for futures and options trading

Deposit & Withdrawal

Deposit and withdrawal options at Matsui Securities are available to investors through four different methods: Netlink Deposit, Deposit Transfer, Time Deposit, and Bank Transfer Deposit. These options allow for transactions without any additional charges.

Net Link Deposit is a service that facilitates real-time transfers from a bank account to a securities account. It can be accessed through various platforms such as the customer site, smartphone site, Japan stock app, and stock touch. The service is available during specified hours, and it supports transactions with multiple financial institutions including Japan Post Bank, Mizuho Bank, Bank of Mitsubishi UFJ, and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation.

Raku-Raku Transfer Deposit enables instant transfers and deposits to a securities account by establishing an account transfer contract with a partnering financial institution. This service can be accessed through the customer site, smartphone site, Japan stock app, and stock touch. The supported financial institutions include Mizuho Bank, Mitsubishi UFJ Bank, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, and Japan Post Bank. The transfer deposit limit ranges from 10,000 yen to less than 100 million yen.

For recurring deposits, investors can opt for the Regular Deposit service. This service automatically withdraws a specified amount from a linked financial institution account on the 27th of each month (or the next business day if it falls on a holiday) and deposits it into the securities account five business days later. Account registration for withdrawal needs to be completed at least 8 business days before the withdrawal date. Various platforms such as the customer site, investment trust customer site, and investment trust app support recurring deposits, and investors can choose from over 100 available financial institutions across Japan.

Bank Transfer Deposit allows customers to transfer funds from an ATM or a counter of a financial institution to a dedicated bank account specified by Matsui Securities. This method ensures secure transactions by utilizing the established banking infrastructure.

In terms of withdrawals, Matsui Securities offers two options. Withdrawals made after the next business day are free of charge, while instant withdrawals incur a procedure fee of 300 yen (including tax). The timing of reflection and withdrawal limits depend on the reception time and vary between next business day and immediate availability. The withdrawal minimum amount is 1,000 yen for withdrawals after the next business day and 10,000 yen or more for instant withdrawals. Customers can make up to 5 instant withdrawals per day, with a maximum limit of 2 million yen per day.

Pros	Cons
Multiple deposit methods available (Netlink, Raku-Raku, etc.)	Limited information about withdrawal processing times and limits
Automatic recurring deposit option available	Instant withdrawals incur a procedure fee
No additional charges for deposit and withdrawal transactions	Limited details about the withdrawal minimum amount
Wide range of supported financial institutions	Limited number of instant withdrawals allowed per day

Trading Platforms

Matsui Securities offers a range of trading platforms tailored to meet various investment needs. These platforms are designed to provide essential functions and features for trading. Let's explore each platform briefly:

1. JAPANESE EQUITY APP: Matsui Securities' Japanese Equity App is a smartphone application that focuses on Japanese stock trading. It offers users access to market price information, charts, news reports, order placement, stock search, corporate information, IPO information, shareholder benefits, and a personalized user page. The app boasts a user-friendly interface and comprehensive features, allowing users to gather information and execute trades with ease.

2. U.S. STOCKS APP: The U.S. Stocks App by Matsui Securities is dedicated to trading U.S. stocks. It provides real-time stock price information, charts, news reports, order placement, stock search, and a personalized user page. The app is designed to be easily understandable, making it suitable for users who are new to trading U.S. stocks. It ensures a confident trading experience with its user-friendly interface.

3. INVESTMENT TRUST APP: Matsui Securities' Investment Trust App offers all the necessary functions for investing in mutual funds. Users can access market price information, place orders, search for funds, and manage their investments through their personalized user page. The app allows beginners to start their investment journey with ease, as it enables investing in funds starting from 100 yen.

4. FOREX APP: The Forex App provided by Matsui Securities caters specifically to trading in the foreign exchange market. It offers market price information, charts, news reports, and order placement features. The app also includes a personalized user page for managing trades. Notably, it incorporates features like “Speed Order” for quick order placement and “Chart Speed Order” for placing orders while viewing the chart.

5. FUTURES OP APP: Matsui Securities' Futures OP App supports futures and options trading. It provides market price information, charts, news reports, order placement, stock search, and a personalized user page. The app is designed with an intuitive and user-friendly interface, allowing users to easily gather information and execute trades.

6. For PC/tablet: In addition to the mobile trading platforms, Matsui Securities also offers a computer-based platform called “Netstock High Speed” and the “FX Trader Plus” platform exclusively for Forex trading. These platforms provide features for checking exchange rates, charts, order placement, and analysis.

Pros	Cons
Multiple specialized apps for different types of trading	Limited information available about platform features
User-friendly interfaces for ease of use	Lack of transparency regarding platform fees and charges
Access to real-time market price information, charts, and news reports	Limited customization options for personalized user experience
Order placement and stock search functionalities	Insufficient information about available analysis and research tools
Personalized user pages for managing investments and trades	Limited information about customer support and assistance
“Speed Order” and “Chart Speed Order” features for quick trading	No information about platform compatibility with different operating systems
Computer-based platforms for desktop and tablet users with additional features	Limited details about the platform's security measures and data protection

Educational Resources

Matsui provides a range of educational resources to support individuals who are interested in learning about investment and Japanese stocks. One such resource is the “Learn to Invest” program, which caters to beginners looking to understand the basics of investing. The program covers topics such as the fundamentals of Japanese stocks, the first installment investment process, and information about seminars that delve deeper into investment strategies. Another valuable resource offered by Matsui is the contribution of Mr. Takeuchi, who shares his expertise through the “Let's Learn about Investment” initiative. This initiative provides insights into various aspects of investment, including how to choose suitable stocks for investment. Matsui also emphasizes the importance of integrating investment knowledge into one's lifestyle, offering resources that demonstrate how to incorporate investment practices seamlessly. Additionally, the company introduces first-time shareholder benefits, enabling individuals to explore the perks of owning stocks for the first time. For those seeking information on specific brands or stores, Matsui provides resources that highlight the company names associated with various investment opportunities. Moreover, Matsui emphasizes the appeal of high dividend stocks, providing insights and guidance on how to identify these potential investments. Lastly, Matsui offers a Q&A section specifically tailored to investment beginners, providing a simple and comprehensive collection of commonly asked questions to support their learning journey.

Customer Support

Matsui Securities provides customer support services through different channels based on the account holders' status. For individuals who already have an account with Matsui Securities, they can enjoy free customer support by calling the dedicated hotline at 0120-953-006 or using IP phone at 03-6387-3666. The customer support service is available on weekdays from 8:30 to 17:00.

For those who do not have a Matsui Securities account, there is a separate hotline at 0120-021-906, and an alternative contact number for IP phone users at 03-6387-3601. This customer support service is also available on weekdays from 8:30 to 17:00.

To learn more about the stock trading consultation services provided by Matsui Securities, individuals can contact kouza-kaisetsu@matsui.co.jp for further information.

Conclusion

Matsui Securities Co., Ltd. is a regulated company in Japan, holding a Retail Forex License under the jurisdiction of the Kanto Local Finance Bureau. While it has a good overall score, there are some disadvantages to consider. The lack of available information regarding the expiry date, website, and email address raises concerns about transparency and communication. Additionally, the absence of specific details about fees and commissions may make it difficult for potential clients to assess the costs associated with trading. However, Matsui Securities provides a variety of market instruments, including access to Japanese and US stocks, mutual funds, foreign exchange trading, futures/options, tax-advantaged accounts, and Japanese equities products. The company offers a range of trading platforms, tailored to different investment needs. It is important for individuals considering Matsui Securities to conduct further research and carefully evaluate the available information before making a decision.

FAQs

Q: Is Matsui Securities Co., Ltd. regulated？

A: Yes, Matsui Securities Co., Ltd. is regulated by the Financial Services Agency in Japan and holds a Retail Forex License.

Q: What is the capital ratio of Matsui Securities？

A: Matsui Securities has a great capital ratio, indicating its financial strength and stability.

Q: How many brokers does Matsui Securities compare to？

A: Matsui Securities compares to three brokers.

Q: What are the market instruments offered by Matsui Securities？

A: Matsui Securities offers Japanese stocks, US stocks, mutual funds, FX (Foreign Exchange), futures/options, NISA/Tsumitate NISA, iDeCo, MMF (Money Market Funds), and ETFs/REITs.

Q: How can I open an account with Matsui Securities？

A: To open an account with Matsui Securities, you can visit their website and follow the account opening process specific to your customer type. The process can be completed online or through mailing the application form.

Q: What are the fees and commissions associated with trading on Matsui Securities？

A: The fees and commissions vary depending on the type of trading. For example, Japanese stocks spot trading and margin trading have fixed fees based on the total contract price. FX trading has no commission fees. It is recommended to refer to Matsui Securities' fee schedule for detailed information.

Q: What deposit and withdrawal options are available at Matsui Securities？

A: Matsui Securities offers Netlink Deposit, Deposit Transfer, Time Deposit, and Bank Transfer Deposit options for transactions without additional charges.

Q: What are the trading platforms provided by Matsui Securities？

A: Matsui Securities offers various trading platforms, including the Japanese Equity App, U.S. Stocks App, Investment Trust App, Forex App, Futures OP App, as well as PC/tablet platforms like “Netstock High Speed” and “FX Trader Plus.”

Q: What educational resources does Matsui Securities provide？

A: Matsui Securities offers educational resources, including the “Learn to Invest” program, to support individuals interested in learning about investment and Japanese stocks.