Focus Markets
Focus Markets Review 2025 – Is It a Safe Forex Broker?
Thinking of trading with Focus Markets? In this detailed review, we examine Focus Markets’ regulations, account types, spreads, fees, platforms, and more. By the end, you’ll know whether Focus Markets is a suitable broker for your trading needs in 2025.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Broker Name | Focus Markets |
| Founded | 2019 (approx.) |
| Headquarters | Australia (claims), with offshore entities |
| Regulations | Claims ASIC license (AFSL 514425) but often operates offshore (SVG) |
| Minimum Deposit | $100 |
| Account Types | Standard, Raw (MT5), Islamic (Swap-Free) |
| Trading Platforms | MetaTrader 5 (MT5) |
| Instruments Offered | Forex, Indices, Commodities, Metals, Crypto CFDs |
| Leverage | Up to 1:500 (depending on region) |
Regulation & Safety
Focus Markets claims to operate under ASIC oversight (Australia), but many users are onboarded through an offshore entity in Saint Vincent & the Grenadines. This results in weaker protection for most global traders. The following points summarize safety:
- Claims ASIC Australia license – AFSL 514425
- Many clients handled through offshore (SVG) entity
- No guaranteed negative balance protection for all regions
- Segregation of client funds is claimed but not always confirmed
- Regulatory transparency is weaker compared to major brokers
Account Types Offered
| Account Type | Platform(s) | Spreads From | Commission | Minimum Deposit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | MT5 | ≈ 1.0 – 1.4 pips | No commission | $100 |
| Raw | MT5 | 0.0 pips | ≈ US$3.50 per lot per side (≈ US$7 round-turn) | $100 |
| Islamic (Swap-Free) | MT5 | Same as Standard or Raw | Admin fee instead of swaps | $100 |
Trading Platforms
- MetaTrader 5 (MT5) only
- Fast execution environment
- Supports EAs, indicators, and automated strategies
- Available on web, desktop, and mobile
Instruments You Can Trade
- Forex major, minor & exotic pairs
- Indices & commodities
- Metals like Gold (XAU/USD) and Silver
- Crypto CFDs (BTC, ETH, others)
- CFDs only (no physical shares)
Spreads, Fees & Commission
- Spreads: Raw spreads from 0.0 pips; Standard spreads from 1.0–1.4 pips
- Commissions: Raw accounts ~US$3.50 per lot per side
- Swap Fees: Charged on overnight trades; Islamic accounts use admin fees
- Deposit/Withdrawal Fees: Some methods may charge
- Inactivity Fee: None reported
Security & Measures
- Claims segregated accounts
- Secure MT5 trading environment
- No proven investor compensation scheme
- Weaker protection for offshore users
Deposit & Withdrawal Options
| Method | Processing Time | Fees / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Credit / Debit Card | Instant | No or low fees |
| Bank Transfer | 1–3 business days | Bank charges may apply |
| E-wallets (Skrill, Neteller, etc.) | Instant to same day | Free or low fees |
| Crypto Deposits | Minutes to hours | Blockchain fees apply |
Customer Support
- Live Chat (response times vary)
- Email support
- No reliable 24/7 coverage reported
- Mixed user feedback on support quality
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Raw spreads from 0.0 pips
- Low minimum deposit ($100)
- Supports MT5 for advanced trading
- Scalping & EA-friendly
- Crypto CFD trading available
Cons
- Regulation not fully transparent
- Many traders onboarded via offshore entity
- Withdrawal complaints reported by users
- No MT4, cTrader, or IRESS platforms
- Limited educational and research materials
Is Focus Markets Right for You?
Focus Markets offers attractive spreads and MT5 trading, but regulatory transparency and offshore registration raise concerns. The broker may be suitable for experienced traders who understand the risks of offshore brokers, but beginners and long-term investors should consider more strictly regulated alternatives.
If you decide to choose Focus Markets:
Open Live Account with Focus Markets
FAQs About Focus Markets
Is Focus Markets regulated?
The broker claims ASIC regulation, but many traders are registered under its offshore entity.
What is the minimum deposit?
The minimum deposit is $100.
Does Focus Markets offer Islamic accounts?
Yes, swap-free Islamic accounts are available.
How tight are the spreads?
Raw spreads start from 0.0 pips; Standard spreads range from 1.0–1.4 pips.
Are there withdrawal issues?
Some traders report slow or problematic withdrawals, especially under the offshore entity.
Disclaimers
CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. Only trade with money you can afford to lose, especially with offshore entities.
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