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)

Overview of eXcentral

eXcentral, founded in 2018 and based in South Africa, is a financial services company that has had its regulation revoked. The firm requires a minimum deposit of $1,000 and offers trading in Forex, commodities, and indices.

eXcentral provides various account types including Classic, VIP, and Gold, catering to different levels of traders. The company offers leverage of up to 1:30 and boasts competitive trading conditions with spreads ranging from 0.06 to 0.1 pip, without charging commissions.

Traders have access to both MT4 and MT5 platforms, popular choices for their robust features and user-friendliness. A demo account is also available for practice trading. Customer support can be reached via email at inquiriesaexcentral-int.com or by phone at +278 71 951005.

For deposits and withdrawals, eXcentral accepts bank transfers, debit/credit cards, and third-party payments. However, the revocation of its regulation takes about its credibility and the safety of client funds.

Is eXcentral Limited Legit or a Scam？

eXcentral, operating under the licensed institution OM BRIDGE (PTY) LTD, had its regulatory status revoked by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority in South Africa.

The company, which held the license number 48296 since June 6, 2017, was categorized as a Financial Service Corporate. The revocation of its license raises significant concerns regarding its compliance with financial regulatory standards and the overall safety and legitimacy of its operations.

The licensed institution is located at UNIT 6C3, 159 Rivonia Road Sinosteel Plaza, Morningside Ext 39 Sandton, and can be contacted at the phone number 27072 216 2542. However, given the revocation of its regulatory status, caution is advised when considering any engagement with eXcentral.

The reason for the revocation and the current operational status of the company would require further investigation for anyone considering their services.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Diverse Market Instruments: Offers trading in Forex, commodities, and indices, providing a range of options for traders.

2. Multiple Account Types: Availability of Classic, VIP, and Gold accounts caters to different levels of traders, offering flexibility and tailored trading experiences.

3. Competitive Spreads: Claims to offer low spreads ranging from 0.06 to 0.1 pip, which can be beneficial for cost-effective trading.

4. Access to MT4 and MT5 Platforms: Both platforms are well-regarded in the trading community for their advanced features and user-friendly interfaces.

5. Demo Account Availability: Provides a demo account, allowing new traders to practice and get acquainted with the platforms without financial risk.

Cons:

1. Regulation Revoked: The revocation of its regulatory status by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority in South Africa is a major red flag, indicating potential issues with compliance and reliability.

2. High Minimum Deposit: A minimum deposit of $1,000 might be relatively high for beginner traders or those looking to test the waters with smaller investments.

3. Uncertain Operational Status: The revocation of its license raises questions about the current operational status and the safety of client funds.

4. Limited Information on Licensed Institution: Lack of detailed information about the licensed institution OM BRIDGE (PTY) LTD, including its website and email address, hinders transparency.

5. Potential Risk to Investors: Given regulatory concerns, there is a heightened risk for anyone considering investing or trading with eXcentral.

Market Instruments

eXcentral offers trading in a range of market instruments, which include:

1. Forex: This includes a variety of currency pairs, allowing traders to speculate on the changing values of currencies against each other.

2. Commodities: These typically involve trading in natural resources such as gold, silver, oil, and agricultural products. Commodities trading can be a way to diversify a trading portfolio beyond forex and indices.

3. Indices: Trading in indices involves speculating on the price movements of index funds, which represent the aggregated performance of a selection of stocks. Indices usually reflect the performance of a particular sector or the broader market.

Account Types

Classic Trading Account:

The Classic Trading Account at eXcentral is designed for entry-level traders, offering leverage up to 1:30. It features a 2.5 spread on EUR/USD and a $0.10 spread on Crude Oil, catering to those who prefer trading in major forex pairs and commodities.

This account includes negative balance protection, which can be a safety net for traders against going into debt. Additionally, it comes with free trading education, providing resources for beginners to learn and develop their trading skills.

VIP Account:

eXcentral's VIP Account is tailored for more advanced traders, maintaining the same leverage of up to 1:30. It offers narrower spreads, with 0.9 on EUR/USD and $0.06 on Crude Oil, which can be appealing for more frequent or experienced traders.

This account enhances the trading experience with added features like educational webinars, SMS MTE trading signals for timely market insights, and weekly account overviews for a regular summary of trading performance.

The VIP Account is a step up for those seeking more in-depth market analysis and educational support.

Gold Account:

The Gold Account at eXcentral is geared towards serious, committed traders, providing leverage up to 1:30. It offers competitive spreads of 1.8 on EUR/USD and $0.08 on Crude Oil.

Alongside the benefits found in the VIP Account, the Gold Account introduces a monthly account overview for comprehensive performance tracking and the services of a dedicated senior account manager for personalized trading support.

Exclusive one-on-one sessions are a standout feature, offering bespoke guidance and strategy discussion, making this account suitable for those seeking a highly tailored trading experience.

How to Open an Account？

Opening an account with eXcentral typically involves the following four steps:

1. Account Selection:

   Begin by choosing the type of trading account that best suits your trading needs and experience level. eXcentral offers Classic, VIP, and Gold accounts, each with different features and spreads.

2. Registration Process:

   Complete the registration form on eXcentrals website. This process usually requires providing personal information such as your name, address, contact details, and possibly some financial information to assess your trading experience and risk tolerance.

3. Verification (KYC Process):

   As part of the Know Your Customer (KYC) process, submit the necessary documents for identity verification. This typically includes a government-issued ID (like a passport or drivers license), proof of residence (such as a utility bill or bank statement), and possibly additional financial documents.

4. Fund Your Account:

   Once your account is verified, deposit funds to meet the minimum deposit requirement, which is $1,000 for eXcentral. Choose a suitable deposit method from the options available, such as bank transfer, debit/credit card, or third-party payment methods.

After completing these steps, youll be able to access the trading platform (MT4 or MT5) provided by eXcentral and start trading with the chosen account type.

Leverage

eXcentral offers leverage of up to 1:30 across its trading accounts, which includes the Classic, VIP, and Gold account types. This level of leverage allows traders to control a larger position with a relatively smaller amount of capital.

For example, with a leverage of 1:30, a trader can hold a position worth up to 30 times their account balance. While this can amplify potential profits, it also significantly increases the risk of losses, especially in volatile market conditions.

Therefore, it's important for traders to use leverage cautiously and understand its implications fully. Leverage is a powerful tool in trading, but it requires a good understanding of risk management to use effectively, particularly for less experienced traders.

Spreads & Commissions

eXcentral offers trading conditions with competitive spreads and no commission fees. The specifics of their spreads and commissions are as follows:

• Spreads

eXcentral advertises spreads as low as 0.06 to 2.5 pip, which is quite tight and can be beneficial for traders looking to minimize their trading costs.

For example, the spread for EUR/USD ranges from 0.06 pip in the VIP account to 2.5 pips in the Classic account. Similarly, the spread for Crude Oil varies from $0.06 in the VIP account to $0.10 in the Classic account.

Such low spreads are particularly advantageous for high-frequency traders or those who trade large volumes.

• Commissions:

The company states that it charges no commissions on trades. This means that traders don't have to pay a separate fee for each trade they execute, which is a cost-effective feature for active traders.

While these trading conditions appear attractive, especially for those looking to keep their trading costs low, it is crucial for traders to consider the overall context of the brokerage, including its regulatory status and reliability.

Trading Platform

eXcentral offers its clients two well-regarded trading platforms: MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5).

1. MT4 Platform: MT4 is one of the most popular trading platforms in the forex and CFD trading community. It is known for its user-friendly interface, robust technical analysis tools, a wide array of charting options, and support for automated trading through Expert Advisors (EAs).

2. MT5 Platform: As the successor to MT4, the MT5 platform offers extended features and capabilities. It supports more types of trading orders and has additional timeframes for analysis. MT5 also provides access to more indicators and analytical tools, along with enhanced charting capabilities.

Both platforms offer mobile versions, allowing traders to manage their accounts and trade from anywhere. The choice between MT4 and MT5 typically depends on the trader's preference, trading style, and the specific instruments they wish to trade.

Deposit & Withdrawal

eXcentral offers various options for deposit and withdrawal, including a specific minimum deposit requirement:

1. Minimum Deposit: The minimum amount required to open an account with eXcentral is $1,000. This sets a relatively high entry barrier, especially for novice traders or those who prefer to start with a smaller capital investment.

2. Payment Methods:

1. Bank Transfer: Allows for direct transfer of funds from a trader's bank account to their trading account. This method is typically secure but may take several days to process.

2. Debit/Credit Card: Offers a quick and convenient way to deposit funds using widely accepted cards like Visa and MasterCard.

3. Third-Party Payment: Accepts deposits via various third-party payment systems, which could include digital wallets or online payment services. These methods often provide quick and easy transactions.

Customer Support

eXcentral provides customer support through multiple channels, aiming to assist clients with their queries and issues. Customers can reach out via email at inquiriesaexcentral-int.com, offering a direct line of communication for support, queries, or feedback.

Additionally, they provide phone support at +278 71 951005, which can be beneficial for immediate assistance or for discussing more complex issues. The availability of these support options suggests a commitment to maintaining accessible customer service.

Conclusion

In summary, eXcentral, based in South Africa and founded in 2018, offers Forex, commodities, and indices trading on both the MT4 and MT5 platforms, with account options including Classic, VIP, and Gold. They provide leverage up to 1:30 and competitive spreads with no commission fees.

However, a significant concern is their revoked regulatory status, which poses serious questions about the firm's credibility and the safety of client investments.

While they offer a minimum deposit of $1,000 and multiple channels for customer support, potential clients should approach with caution and thoroughly evaluate the risks due to the regulatory concerns.

FAQs

Q:What trading platforms does eXcentral offer？

A:eXcentral provides the MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5) platforms for trading.

Q:What is the minimum deposit required to open an account with eXcentral？

A:The minimum deposit required to open an account with eXcentral is $1,000.

Q:What types of trading accounts does eXcentral offer？

A:eXcentral offers three types of accounts: Classic, VIP, and Gold, each with different features and spreads.

Q:What leverage does eXcentral offer？

A:eXcentral offers leverage up to 1:30 across all its trading accounts.

Q:How can I deposit or withdraw funds from eXcentral？

A:Deposits and withdrawals can be made via bank transfer, debit/credit card, or third-party payment methods.

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

A:Customer support can be reached via email at inquiriesaexcentral-int.com or by phone at +278 71 951005.