General Information & Regulation

TD Ameritrade Hong Kong Limited is a regulated brokerage firm authorized by the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) of Hong Kong. Holding a license for dealing in futures contracts, TD Ameritrade operates within the legal and regulatory framework of Hong Kong's financial markets. With an address at Room 1211-13, Two Exchange Square, 8 Connaught Place, Central, Hong Kong, the company can be contacted via email at help@tdameritrade.com.hk. The regulatory oversight provided by the SFC ensures that TD Ameritrade Hong Kong adheres to the established standards and practices in the industry.

TD Ameritrade offers a diverse range of market instruments to cater to the investment needs of its users. Investors can trade listed stocks online without any commissions, benefiting from real-time trade analysis and expert insights. The platform enables options trading at a cost of US$0.65 per contract, providing specialized tools and the assistance of U.S.-licensed options trading specialists. Additionally, TD Ameritrade provides access to over 2,000 ETFs across various asset classes and fund companies, along with U.S. Treasury bonds, corporate bonds, offshore mutual funds, American Depositary Receipts (ADRs), and foreign ordinaries.

TD Ameritrade provides various account types, including Individual, Joint, Trust, Corporate, and U.S. Retirement accounts. These accounts cater to different investment preferences and goals. The Individual Account is suitable for individuals who want to manage their portfolios independently, while the Joint Account is designed for opening accounts with another person. Trust Accounts are available for establishing trusts for investment purposes, and Corporate Accounts cater to companies and organizations. U.S. Retirement Accounts are specifically tailored for those interested in opening retirement accounts in the United States. TD Ameritrade also offers Demo accounts for users to test the platform's features and functionalities.

Pros and Cons

TD Ameritrade Hong Kong Limited, as a regulated brokerage firm operating within the legal and regulatory framework of Hong Kong's financial markets, offers a range of advantages and disadvantages for investors. On the positive side, the company holds a license from Hong Kong's Securities and Futures Commission (SFC), providing a sense of trust and assurance. They provide a diverse selection of market instruments, including stocks, options, ETFs, bonds, offshore mutual funds, ADRs, and foreign ordinaries. TD Ameritrade also offers various account types, multiple trading platforms with robust tools, and educational resources to enhance investors' knowledge. Moreover, clients have access to various funding methods for account deposits. However, there are also limitations. TD Ameritrade primarily operates within Hong Kong's market framework, which may restrict its services for investors outside Hong Kong. Additionally, their focus on futures contracts may not appeal to investors seeking broader investment options. The availability of trading platforms and customer support channels is relatively limited compared to other brokerage firms.

Latest News

On 28 February 2022, TD Ameritrade Hong Kong will close and will no longer maintain accounts.

Is TD Ameritrade Legit？

TD Ameritrade Hong Kong Limited is regulated by the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) of Hong Kong. The company holds a license for dealing in futures contracts, with license number BJO462. The regulatory oversight provided by the SFC ensures that TD Ameritrade Hong Kong operates within the established legal and regulatory framework of Hong Kong's financial markets. The license was issued on October 17, 2017, and there is no specified expiry date mentioned. The address of TD Ameritrade Hong Kong Limited is Room 1211-13, Two Exchange Square, 8 Connaught Place, Central, Hong Kong. The company can be contacted via email at help@tdameritrade.com.hk. Further information about TD Ameritrade Hong Kong Limited can be found on their website at www.tdameritrade.com.hk.

Market Instruments

TD Ameritrade clients can trade a wide variety of assets on the web platform as well as the mobile apps. This includes exchanged-traded funds (ETFs), stocks, options, futures, and cryptocurrency.

Stocks: TD Ameritrade allows users to trade listed stocks online with no commissions. They provide tools and research informed by Schwab experts to simplify stock selection. Users can benefit from real-time trade analysis provided by Schwab professionals.

Options: TD Ameritrade enables online options trading with a cost of just US$0.65 per contract and no base commission. They offer platforms and tools specifically designed for options traders, aiding in navigating the market. U.S.-licensed options trading specialists are also available to provide support.

Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs): TD Ameritrade provides access to over 2,000 ETFs across various asset classes and fund companies. Users can utilize the Schwab Personalized Portfolio Builder tool to easily create a diversified ETF portfolio. Additionally, European-domiciled UCITS ETFs are available for residents of the European Economic Area (EEA).

Bonds: TD Ameritrade offers access to a wide range of investments, including U.S. Treasury bonds and corporate bonds. Their Schwab BondSource® tool allows users to screen through 36,000+ bonds. Pricing is straightforward and easy to understand, ensuring users know what they are paying for.

Offshore mutual funds: TD Ameritrade provides a broad selection of funds that have been carefully screened by Schwab experts. Users can access premium independent research and analysis from Morningstar®. The platform also offers an advanced online screener tool that allows users to compare up to five funds simultaneously.

American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) and foreign ordinaries: TD Ameritrade offers trading of ADRs and foreign ordinaries, providing users with insights into the benefits, risks, and considerations associated with these international stock types. Advanced platforms and tools are available for trading stocks in local markets.

Account Types

Individual Account:

TD Ameritrade offers an Individual Account option for clients who wish to trade and invest on their own. This account type is suitable for individuals who want to manage their own portfolios and make independent investment decisions. The Individual Account does not have any specific minimum deposit requirements, although to open an Individual or Joint account, a minimum of US$25,000 is needed. Within the Individual Account category, there are two subtypes: Margin account and Cash account. The Margin account requires an initial deposit of at least 2000 USD, whereas the Cash account has no minimum deposit requirement.

Joint Account:

For clients who want to open an account with another person, TD Ameritrade offers a Joint Account option. The online application process is available for joint accounts with two account holders. However, if there are more than two account holders, it is necessary to contact TD Ameritrade to initiate the account-opening process.

Trust Account:

TD Ameritrade provides a Trust Account option for clients who want to establish a trust for investment purposes. Opening a Trust Account requires a minimum deposit of US$100,000. The online application process is available for trusts with two or fewer individual trustees and/or beneficiaries. If the trust has more than two individual trustees, a company trustee, or if the beneficiaries are greater than two and include a company or undisclosed parties, it is recommended to contact TD Ameritrade for further information.

Corporate Account:

TD Ameritrade offers a Corporate Account option for companies and organizations. To learn more about opening a Charles Schwab International corporate account, it is necessary to contact TD Ameritrade directly.

U.S. Retirement Account:

For clients interested in opening a retirement account in the United States, TD Ameritrade provides the U.S. Retirement Account option. To obtain more information about opening a U.S. retirement account with TD Ameritrade, it is advised to contact them directly. The U.S. Retirement Account includes Individual and Joint Account options.

TD Ameritrade also offers the option of Demo accounts, which allow both beginners and experienced traders to test the functionalities and features of the trading platform.

Demo Accounts Available

Demo accounts are available for both beginners and professionals to test trading platform's functionalities and features in a 100% risk-free trading environment.

How to Open an Account

To open an account with TD Ameritrade, follow these steps:

1. Visit the TD Ameritrade website and click on the “Open Your Account” button.

1. Select your country or region of residence from the provided list. This will connect you to the appropriate page for your location.

1. Begin the online application process, which typically takes around 15 minutes to complete.

2. Prepare the necessary documents for the application. These may include:

1. Tax ID Number or Social Security Number: Provide your tax identification number or social security number, depending on your country's requirements.

2. Passport or government ID: Have a valid passport or government-issued identification document ready for verification purposes.

3. Recent utility bill or proof of residency: Gather a recent utility bill (such as gas, electric, water, or cable) or any other document that serves as proof of your residency.

4. Employer's name and mailing address: If applicable, provide the name and mailing address of your employer.

1. Ensure you have access to a printer and scanner. You will need these to print, sign, and upload any required documents during the application process.

2. Select the Account Types.

3. Review the terms and conditions, disclosures, and any other relevant documents carefully before submitting your application.

4. After submitting your application, wait for confirmation and further instructions from TD Ameritrade regarding the status of your account.

Fees & Commissions

To open an Individual/Joint account, a minimum deposit of US$25,000 is required. Detailed information about fees and commissions can be found in the Charles Schwab Pricing Guide for Individual Investors.

For stocks and ETFs, the commission per trade for online trades is US$0, while broker-assisted trades incur a fee of US$25. Non-U.S. ETFs are not available for online trades and are subject to a transaction fee of US$50 for broker-assisted trades.

Regarding offshore mutual funds, there is no transaction fee for broker-assisted trades. However, a short-term redemption fee of US$49.95 may apply.

Options trading entails a commission per executed trade of US$0 plus US$0.65 per contract for online trades, while broker-assisted trades are subject to online pricing plus a fee of US$25.

In terms of fixed income, the transaction fee per trade for new issues is included in the offering price for both online and broker-assisted trades. For Treasuries, including Auction and Secondary, such as Treasury Bonds, Treasury Bills, Treasury Notes, and TIPS, the transaction fee is US$0 for online trades and US$25 for broker-assisted trades. Corporate Bonds, Municipal Bonds, Government Agencies, Zero-Coupon Treasuries (including STRIPS), incur a fee of US$1 per bond with a minimum of US$10 and a maximum of US$250 for online trades. Broker-assisted trades in this category are subject to online pricing plus a fee of US$25. Specialty products like Commercial Paper, Foreign Bonds, Asset-Backed Securities, Mortgage-Backed Securities, Collateralized Mortgage Obligations, and Unit Investment Trusts require contacting TD Ameritrade for specific information. For Preferred listed stocks and REITs, there is no commission for online trades, while broker-assisted trades incur a fee of US$25.

Pros and Cons

Minimum Deposit

TD Ameritrade Hong Kong Limited requires a minimum deposit of US$25,000 to open a brokerage account(Individual or Joint account).

Also, TD Ameritrade has a minimum deposit requirement of US$100,000 for its Trust Account.

Trading Platforms

TD Ameritrade offers a comprehensive trading platform that provides users with access to the U.S. market.

Web trading

One of their platforms is web trading, accessible through International.Schwab.com. This platform allows users to trade easily from anywhere with an internet connection. The website provides a user-friendly interface for accessing the U.S. market. Additionally,

StreetSmart Edge®.

One of the primary trading platforms provided by TD Ameritrade is StreetSmart Edge®. This platform is designed to cater to the needs of traders, offering powerful features and functionalities. It can be accessed either through downloadable software or online via the cloud.

Schwab Mobile.

In addition to the desktop platform, TD Ameritrade also offers mobile trading through Schwab Mobile. This mobile app enables users to stay connected to their U.S. investments on the go. It is available for Android™, iPhone®, iPad®, and Apple Watch™, allowing traders to access their accounts and make informed decisions wherever they are.

TD Ameritrade's trading platform is equipped with robust trading tools that help users translate insights into action. These tools are designed to assist traders in analyzing market trends and making informed trading decisions. The platform's features provide users with the necessary tools and resources to navigate the complexities of the U.S. market.

Educational Resources

TD Ameritrade offers a range of educational resources to help investors deepen their understanding of U.S. investing. These resources include workshops, webinars, U.S. market commentary, investing education, and daily updates.

The workshops and webinars provided by TD Ameritrade are designed specifically for international investors, catering to individuals at all levels of experience. These sessions offer the opportunity to learn directly from seasoned investment experts at TD Ameritrade. Whether attending an in-person workshop or participating in a live webinar, investors can benefit from the expertise shared during these educational events.

U.S. Market Commentary

To enhance U.S. investing intelligence, TD Ameritrade offers market commentary that provides insights into the U.S. and global markets. Through the Schwab Market Perspective, investors can gain valuable information to stay informed about the daily fluctuations of the stock market. This helps investors make informed decisions regarding U.S. investment opportunities.

Investing Education

TD Ameritrade's investing education aims to help investors apply their skills to U.S. markets. They provide resources that cover various aspects of investing, such as identifying favorable trends, conducting technical and fundamental analysis, and applying investment strategies. These educational materials can assist investors in making informed investment decisions in the U.S. market.

Additionally, TD Ameritrade offers daily updates, including the closing market update, which provides a summary of market movements and key events impacting the U.S. stock market. These updates help investors stay up-to-date with the latest developments and trends in the market, enabling them to make more informed investment decisions.

Pros and Cons

Payment Methods

TD Ameritrade provides a range of funding options for clients to deposit funds into their accounts. These options include FPS transfers, cheque deposits, telegraphic transfers (international wire), and account transfers from another broker (ACAT). It is important to note that all deposits must be made in U.S dollars.

In addition to these methods, TD Ameritrade accepts various payment options for clients to fund their accounts. These include Mastercard, Visa, Metro, Skrill, Neteller, AstroPay, eBay.bg, GiroPay, Neosurf, Euteller, SOFORT, ToditoCash, and others.

Customer Support

TD Ameritrade provides customer support through various channels to assist clients with their inquiries and concerns. To reach customer service by phone, clients can call +1-415-667-7870 if they are outside the United States, or 1-877-853-1802 if they are within the U.S. The customer service hours are from 5:30 p.m. on Sunday to 1:00 a.m. on Saturday, following the U.S. Eastern Standard Time (EST).

Clients can also contact TD Ameritrade's customer support via email by writing to the provided email address. For mailing purposes, applications, deposits, and other materials can be sent to the following address:

Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.

Attn: International Operations

1945 Northwestern Drive

El Paso, TX 79912-1108, USA

Additionally, TD Ameritrade offers phone-based services. Clients can use Schwab by Phone™ by calling 1-800-435-4000 to reach an investment professional or utilize automated phone services. TeleBroker® provides access to automated touch-tone services, and it can be reached at 1-800-2SCHWAB (1-800-272-4922). For specific services in different languages, clients can contact the respective numbers provided, such as 1-800-662-6068 for 中文 (Chinese) services and 1-800-786-5174 for servicios en español (Spanish services). International clients can call 1-415-667-8400 for services in English, 中文, or español.

To access customer support online, clients can visit the official TD Ameritrade website at schwab.com, chinese.schwab.com, or international.schwab.com. For those using web-enabled phones, they can find Schwab on their phone's web menu. Additionally, PDA users can consult schwab.com/wireless on their desktop for further assistance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, TD Ameritrade Hong Kong Limited is a regulated brokerage firm authorized by the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) of Hong Kong. It offers a diverse range of market instruments, including stocks, options, ETFs, bonds, offshore mutual funds, and ADRs/foreign ordinaries. The company provides various account types, such as Individual, Joint, Trust, Corporate, and U.S. Retirement Accounts, with different minimum deposit requirements. TD Ameritrade offers multiple trading platforms, including web trading, StreetSmart Edge®, and Schwab Mobile, to provide access to the U.S. market. They also offer educational resources, workshops, webinars, and market commentary to help investors enhance their understanding of U.S. investing. Payment methods include FPS transfers, cheque deposits, telegraphic transfers, and account transfers. Customer support is available through phone, email, and online channels.

FAQs

Q: Is TD Ameritrade regulated？

A: Yes, TD Ameritrade is regulated by the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) of Hong Kong.

Q: What market instruments does TD Ameritrade offer？

A: TD Ameritrade offers a diverse range of market instruments including stocks, options, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), bonds, offshore mutual funds, American Depositary Receipts (ADRs), and foreign ordinaries.

Q: What are the minimum deposit requirements for TD Ameritrade？

A: TD Ameritrade requires a minimum deposit of US$25,000 for Individual and Joint accounts, and US$100,000 for Trust accounts.

Q: What trading platforms does TD Ameritrade provide？

A: TD Ameritrade offers web trading, StreetSmart Edge®, and Schwab Mobile as its primary trading platforms.

Q: What educational resources are available at TD Ameritrade？

A: TD Ameritrade offers workshops, webinars, U.S. market commentary, investing education, and daily updates to help investors enhance their understanding of U.S. investing.

Q: What are the payment methods accepted by TD Ameritrade？

A: TD Ameritrade accepts FPS transfers, cheque deposits, telegraphic transfers, and account transfers from another broker. It also accepts payment options such as Mastercard, Visa, and various other methods.

Q: How can I contact TD Ameritrade's customer support？

A: You can contact TD Ameritrade's customer support via phone, email, or by mailing your inquiries to their designated address. They also offer phone-based services and online customer support through their official website.

What is Vantage？

Vantage is an online forex broker that offers trading services for individuals and institutions around the world. The company was founded in 2009 and is headquartered in Australia, with additional offices in the United Kingdom, Cayman Islands, and China. Vantage provides a variety of trading instruments, including forex, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies, and offers multiple trading platforms, such as MetaTrader4 and5. The broker also provides a range of educational resources and customer support services to help traders of all levels make informed trading decisions.

Pros & Cons

Vantage offers a good selection of trading instruments, competitive spreads, and multiple trading platforms. The broker is also well-regulated and offers a high level of security for client funds.

On the downside, some traders have reported issues with order execution and withdrawals. Additionally, some trading platforms may not be available to all clients based on their country of residence.

Note: This table is not exhaustive and there may be other pros and cons of Vantage depending on individual experiences and preferences.

Vantage Alternative Brokers

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

• Admiral Markets: An online trading platform offering a range of financial instruments, including forex, stocks, and commodities.

• AvaTrade: A regulated forex broker that provides trading services to clients worldwide, with a range of trading platforms and instruments available.

• Plus500: An online trading platform that offers CFD trading on various financial instruments, including forex, cryptocurrencies, and stocks, with a user-friendly interface and competitive spreads.

Ultimately, the best broker for an individual trader will depend on their specific trading style, preferences, and needs.

Is Vantage Safe or Scam？

Based on the available information, Vantage appears to be a reliable broker. It is regulated by top-tier authorities including ASIC and the FCA, offers negative balance protection, ensuring clients cannot lose more than their account balance. Vantage also has a range of trading platforms and tools, as well as competitive fees and spreads. However, there have been some negative reviews regarding customer service and the withdrawal process. Overall, it is important for individuals to conduct their own research and due diligence before deciding to use Vantage or any other broker.

Market Instruments

Vantage provides a diverse range of trading instruments to cater to the different trading needs of its clients. It offers trading in major, minor, and exotic forex currency pairs, as well as popular indices, such as S&P 500, NASDAQ, and Dow Jones. In addition, Vantage also offers trading in precious metals, including gold and silver, soft commodities, such as coffee, sugar, and wheat, and energy products, including crude oil and natural gas. Clients can also trade Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), share CFDs, and bonds. With this variety of instruments, traders can diversify their portfolio and capitalize on different market opportunities.

Accounts

Vantage offers three tiered trading accounts to satisfy different traders trading needs. Standard STP account is for novice traders who want direct market access with no commissions applied. Raw and Pro ECN accounts are designed for experienced traders who pursue high liquidity and ultra-low spreads. To open a Standard STP or Raw ECN account, you need $50, while Pro ECN account is designed for traders with high volume, which requires an account opening amount of $10,000. It also offers unlimited demo accounts.

Leverage

Vantage offers the maximum trading leverage of up to 500:1, a generous offering, ideal for professionals and scalpers. However, inexperienced traders are advised not to use such a high leverage level in case of heavy fund losses.

Spreads & Commissions

When it comes to the core part of the forex trading spread, it varies depending on the account type. The spread in the Standard STP account starts from 1.0 pips with no additional commissions. The spreads in the Raw and Pro ECN accounts start from 0.0 pips, but with additional commissions required, from $3 per lot per side and from $1.5 per lot per side respectively.

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

Please note that the spread and commission may vary depending on the account type and trading platform used.

Trading Platforms

Vantage offers traders the most popular online forex trading terminals on the market- MT4 and MT5 trading platforms. MT4 trading platform from VANTAGE FX comes with a wide range of powerful chart types and supports desktop, web, and mobile devices, etc. MT5 offers a full suite of trading needs, including forex, commodities, and indices, with all quotes from liquidity providers at your fingertips. MT5's two account types (Equity and Hedge) make it easier for traders to manage their accounts in the way they want.

Overall, Vantage'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:

Note: The table only includes some of the available trading platforms for each broker.

Trading Tools

Vantage offers a range of trading tools to assist traders in making informed trading decisions. These tools include market news and analysis, an economic calendar, sentiment indicators, smart trader tools for the MT4 and MT5 platforms, a range of calculators, Forex VPS, TradingView, trading signals, PRO Trader Tools, and PRO Trader Tutorials. These tools provide traders with comprehensive market insights and analysis to help them identify profitable trading opportunities. Additionally, the PRO Trader Tools offer advanced features such as trade management, sentiment analysis, and correlation matrix, making it an attractive option for professional traders looking for sophisticated trading tools.

Deposits & Withdrawals

Vantage offers several flexible payment options, consisting of Domestic EFT, Domestic Express Transfer (Australia only), International EFT, credit/debit cards of Visa/MasterCard, JCB, China UnionPay, Neteller, Skrill, AstroPay, Broker-to-Broker Transfer, FasaPay, and Thailand Instant Bank Wire Transfer.

Before submitting a withdrawal request, please ensure that the requested amount is equal to or above the minimum required amount for each withdrawal method shown in the table below. Otherwise, you may need to top up your account balance to or above the suggested minimum before withdrawing.

The broker does not charge any internal fees for any deposits and withdrawals. However, outgoing and incoming deposits from foreign banking institutions may be subject to brokerage fees for either party. These fees are not controlled by Vantage, and the user is responsible for the costs incurred.

Base currencies:

AUD – Dollars, USD – United States Dollar, EUR – Euro, GBP – British Pound Sterling, NZD – New Zealand Dollar, SGD – Singapore Dollar, JPY – Japanese Yen, CAD – Canadian Dollar

Vantage minimum deposit vs other brokers

Vantage Money Withdrawal

To withdraw funds, clients need to log in to their Vantage account and go to the “Withdrawal” section. From there, they can select the withdrawal method and follow the instructions provided. Withdrawal requests are typically processed within one business day, and the time it takes for the funds to reach the client's account depends on the withdrawal method used.

Fees

Vantage also charges an inactivity fee of $50 per quarter for accounts that have been inactive for 6 months or more. There are no deposit or withdrawal fees, but clients may incur charges from their payment provider.

See the fee comparison table below:

Note that the withdrawal fees for Vantage and Admiral Markets may vary depending on the withdrawal method chosen. It's important to check with each broker for the most up-to-date information on fees.

Customer Service

Vantage offers customer support 24/7 through various channels such as email, live chat, and phone. They also provide a comprehensive FAQ section on their website to answer common queries. Moreover, they are also some social media platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

Overall, their customer service is efficient and responsive, with quick response times and helpful support agents.

Note: These are general observations and experiences may vary depending on individual cases and circumstances.

Education

Vantage provides educational resources to its clients to help them improve their trading skills and knowledge. These educational resources include articles, webinars, and guides that cover various topics such as trading strategies, technical analysis, fundamental analysis, risk management, and more. Vantage also offers a free demo account to clients to practice their trading skills in a risk-free environment. Additionally, Vantage provides market analysis and research to its clients to help them make informed trading decisions.

Conclusion

Overall, Vantage offers a wide range of trading instruments and platforms, with competitive spreads and no commission on trades, making it an attractive option for traders. The broker also provides various educational resources for traders, including webinars and tutorials. However, Vantage's customer service could be improved, as some traders have reported slow response times and have difficulty withdrawing funds. Despite these drawbacks, Vantage has established a strong reputation for reliability, with stringent regulations in place to protect client funds. Overall, Vantage is a choice for traders looking for a reputable broker with a wide range of trading tools and educational resources.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)