Best FOREX Broker in Japan for 2024
With many years of meticulous FOREX broker testing, Arincen stands out as a voice of authority. Our analyses, shaped by exhaustive data collection, are trusted by many. Each year, we gather 120 data points from more than 100 brokers. Our team of more than 20 people collaborate extensively to produce high-quality broker reviews like this one. For a detailed explanation of how we test brokers, navigate to the bottom of this article.
As a new trader or even as an experienced one, it can be easy to become overwhelmed by the sheer amount of broker choices. Every broker's Website is well-laid out and is popping with color. Each broker claims it is the best FOREX broker and that it has the best online trading app. Who do you believe? Is there a way to cut through all the competing claims to arrive at a decision that works for you?
The answer is yes. With some research, you can decide which is the best online broker in Japan. At Arincen, we are committed to guiding traders like you along their trading journey. As someone interested in engaging with a top FOREX broker in Japan, you've come to the right place. In this article, we will be listing the best FOREX brokers in Japan today. This FOREX broker ranking is the result of our detailed review process. We will share our review methodology so traders can understand why our experts are so convinced about the calls they've made.
The answer is yes. With some research, you can decide which is the best online broker in Japan. At Arincen, we are committed to guiding traders like you along their trading journey. As someone interested in engaging with a top FOREX broker in Japan, you've come to the right place. In this article, we will be listing the best FOREX brokers in Japan today. This FOREX broker ranking is the result of our detailed review process. We will share our review methodology so traders can understand why our experts are so convinced about the calls they've made.
Best FOREX Brokers in Japan in 2024
| Company name | Regulations | Minimum deposit | Main branch | Open account |
|---|---|---|---|---|
ICM Capital |
500$ | United Arab Emirates | ||
Tradeview |
250$ | USA | ||
XTB |
500$ | UK | ||
IG |
500$ | UK |
| Company name | ICM Capital |
| Regulations | |
| Minimum deposit | 500$ |
| Main branch | United Arab Emirates |
| Company name | Tradeview |
| Regulations | |
| Minimum deposit | 250$ |
| Main branch | USA |
| Company name | XTB |
| Regulations | |
| Minimum deposit | 500$ |
| Main branch | UK |
| Company name | IG |
| Regulations | |
| Minimum deposit | 500$ |
| Main branch | UK |
Top Tips for Selecting the Best FOREX Brokers in Japan
In Japan, the FOREX market is filled with a selection of premium brokers offering excellent services. To safeguard and grow your investments in today's volatile markets, it's crucial to work with a broker with a verifiable record of success. You need to carry out comprehensive research to make the best decision. When considering a FOREX broker in Japan, you should be thinking about these factors:
• The broker should fall under a reputable regulatory authority, such as Japan's Financial Services Agency (FSA), or another global regulatory body.
• You must assess the broker's fee structure to make sure it is both competitive and transparent. It must work for you.
• Choose a broker that provides a wide variety of tradable financial assets.
• Your chosen broker must be able to provide a good customer service desk.
• You should verify that you have access to top-notch research tools and educational materials to enhance your market intelligence.
• You must assess the broker's fee structure to make sure it is both competitive and transparent. It must work for you.
• Choose a broker that provides a wide variety of tradable financial assets.
• Your chosen broker must be able to provide a good customer service desk.
• You should verify that you have access to top-notch research tools and educational materials to enhance your market intelligence.
Best FOREX Brokers in Japan for 2024
Take a look at our experts' top FOREX brokers in Japan for 2024:
ICM - Capital 91.10: Best Deposit and Withdrawal Broker
Tradeview: 90.00: Trusted broker that offers very low trading costs as well as comprehensive financial literacy materials for its clients.
XTB - 85.55: Best Customer Service Broker
IG - 85.45: Best Regulations Broker plus Convenient Platform
Saxo Bank - 80.09: Excellent Private Trading Platform
CMC Markets - 80.07: More than 9,000 Assets
ThinkMarkets - 80.05: Aimed at the Audience of Traders
ICM capital Broker
ICM Capital is considered the industry leader in deposits and withdrawals, whereby each withdrawal does not take more than five business days. Moreover, the company offers its customers a handy credit card to withdraw their profits, in addition to enabling customers to use various deposit methods. The company, which is licensed by the UK's FCA, has several branches around the world. Among other things, it has a rich portfolio of assets, especially stocks, offers a low spread, as well as the ability to use MT4.
| Broker Evaluation | 8.11 |
| Regulatory Bodies | |
| Minimum Deposit | 500$ |
| Islamic Account | yes |
| Payment Methods | Bank transfer - credit card - Electronic Banks - Crypto |
| Main Branch | United Kingdom |
| Customer Service | 24/5 |
| Demo account | yes |
| Trading Platforms | MT4 - MT5 - C TRADER -Web Platform |
Pros
-
Segregated client funds.
-
Regulated by the UK’s FCA.
-
Established in 2009.
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More than 10,000 ICM Capital users and traders.
-
Reasonable minimum deposit from $500.
-
Decent funding options.
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No swaps.
-
MetaTrader4 (MT4) desktop and mobile download.
Cons
-
Does not allow scalping.
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Not ASIC-regulated.
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Relatively limited range of instruments.
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Slow live-chat service.
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Relatively high trading fees.
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Limited range of trading tools and resources
Dukascopy Broker
Tradeview Forex, interchangeably known as Tradeview Markets, was established in 2004 and is headquartered in the Cayman Islands, setting itself up as a significant player in the online FOREX and CFD trading world. Regulated by the Cayman Island Monetary Authority (CIMA) and the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), Tradeview Forex is a reliable platform in a competitive market. The broker’s commitment to offering a broad and accessible trading environment shines through with its low deposit requirement and how it provides various advanced trading platforms to clientele.
| Broker Evaluation | 7 |
| Regulatory Bodies | |
| Minimum Deposit | $450 |
| Islamic Account | Yes |
| Payment Methods | Bank transfer - credit card - Electronic Banks - Crypto |
| Main Branch | USA |
| Customer Service | 24/5 |
| Demo account | Yes |
| Trading Platforms | Proprietary Platform-MT4 - MT5 -Web Platform |
Pros
-
Established in 2004.
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Variety of trading platforms, such as MT4, MT5, cTrader, and Currenex, catering to different trading preferences and strategies.
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Low minimum deposits.
-
beginners and experienced traders looking to refine their strategies.
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Supports automated trading through the use of Expert Advisors (EA) on MT4 and MT5 platforms.
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Decent leverage levels of 1:200 available in some jurisdictions.
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Regulated by CIMA, MFSA, and will soon be regulated by the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
Cons
-
While regulated by CIMA and the MFSA, the broker is still in the final stages of becoming regulated by the tier-one FCA.
-
Trades on the Innovative Liquidity Connector® account are subject to commission charges, which may add to trading costs.
-
While offering high leverage up to 400:1 can be an advantage, it also introduces significant risks, especially for new traders.
XTB Broker
What distinguishes XTB is the fact that it offers the best customer experience among all the companies we have surveyed. Indeed, it boasts the fastest response rate from all the companies under investigation. This is especially relevant, since the market is always on-the-go, and so you need to act fast. XTB offers lots of asset classes, as well as the ability to use the MT4 trading platform. Finally, it maintains a relatively low spread, which is suitable for quick deals.
| Broker Evaluation | 8.55 |
| Regulatory Bodies | |
| Minimum Deposit | 500$ |
| Islamic Account | yes |
| Payment Methods | Bank transfer - credit card - Electronic Banks |
| Main Branch | United Kingdom |
| Customer Service | 24/5 |
| Demo account | yes |
| Trading Platforms | MT4 - MT5 -Web Platform |
Pros
-
Long history of operation.
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Globally recognized, having won multiple awards.
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Some of the lowest FOREX spreads in the market.
-
Regulated by the FCA (UK).
-
Offers protection for client accounts.
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Emphasis on customer service.
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Excellent support, learning and research tools.
Cons
-
Does not accept US clients.
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Non-FOREX spread costs are relatively high.
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No GSLO.
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No back-testing or automated trading capabilities.
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Conditions vary according to regulation and entity.
ig markets Broker
IG is arguably the best broker when it comes to security and trust, boasting, as it does, licenses from 10 regulatory bodies, including the all-important FCA from the UK. The company is also a bank and is a publicly traded company in London. It is known for offering more than 10,000 asset classes of currencies, commodities, future contracts, ETFs, indices, cryptocurrencies etc. Further, it has its own state-of-the-art trading platform and offers a relatively low spread.
| Broker Evaluation | 7.54 |
| Regulatory Bodies | |
| Minimum Deposit | 250$ |
| Islamic Account | yes |
| Payment Methods | Bank transfer - credit card - Electronic Banks |
| Main Branch | United Kingdom |
| Customer Service | 24/5 |
| Demo account | Yes |
| Trading Platforms | Proprietary Platform -MT4 - Web Platform |
Pros
-
Easy-to-navigate platform that is simple for beginners to master.
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Margin rates are easy to understand and affordable.
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Mobile and tablet platforms offer full functionality of the desktop version.
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Accepts US clients.
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Access to more than 100 currency pairs
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Emphasis on education and research.
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Regulated by the FCA (UK), as well as the CFTC and the NFA (US).
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Offers protection for UK/EU client accounts.
Cons
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US traders can currently only trade FOREX.
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No GSLO for US-based traders.
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No account protection for US clients.
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Relatively high share-CFD fees.
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No copy trading or back-testing integration on IG platform.
SAXO BANK Broker
Saxobank is considered one of the best investment banks in the area of financial markets and currencies, as it offers the very best trading platform and tools from all the companies we have reviewed. Meanwhile, its spread is very low and, as such, suitable for short-term deals; and it offers a large number of asset classes, including currencies, commodities, indices etc. Finally, its customer service is excellent and very responsive to traders' needs.
| Broker Evaluation | 6.09 |
| Regulatory Bodies | |
| Minimum Deposit | 10000$ |
| Islamic Account | No |
| Payment Methods | Bank transfer - credit card |
| Main Branch | Copenhagen, Denmark |
| Customer Service | 24/5 |
| Demo account | No |
| Trading Platforms | SaxoTrader |
Pros
-
Extensive range of offerings.
-
Regulated by the FCA (UK) and other top regulators.
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Great trading platform.
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Among the industry’s best research.
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Superior user interface.
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Offers protection for client accounts.
Cons
-
High bond, options and futures fees.
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Lack of emphasis on customer service.
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Confusing instrument fee structures.
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High minimum deposit.
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Does not accept US clients.
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No MT4.
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Lacks live chat.
CMC MARKETS Broker
CMC Markets is thought of as one the best companies, offering some 9,000 asset classes that encompass currencies, commodities, indices, cryptocurrencies, bonds and stocks. The company offers a relatively low spread, the MT4 platform, and fast customer service. It is most suited for traders looking for diversity in asset classes.
| Broker Evaluation | 7.07 |
| Regulatory Bodies | |
| Minimum Deposit | 0$ |
| Islamic Account | No |
| Payment Methods | Bank transfer - credit card - Electronic Banks |
| Main Branch | United Kingdom |
| Customer Service | 24/5 |
| Demo account | not |
| Trading Platforms | Proprietary Platform -MT4 - Web Platform |
Pros
-
Extensive range of offerings.
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Regulated by the FCA (UK).
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Low FOREX fees.
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Emphasis on education and customer service.
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Great Web and mobile platforms.
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Offers protection for client accounts.
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Research amenities are industry leading.
Cons
-
Does not accept US clients.
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Limited product portfolio.
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High stock CFD fees.
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High CFD spreads for certain indices.
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Differences between Next Generation and MT4.
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Complicated account verification.
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No back-testing or automated trading capabilities.
think markets Broker
Originally founded in New Zealand in 2010, and moving to Australia within the space of their first two years, Think Markets is a global online brokerage focusing on FOREX and CFD trading. In addition to a range of major and minor currency pairs. Think Markets has an array of CFDs on offer. This includes indices, as well as hard and soft commodities.
| Broker Evaluation | 8.05 |
| Regulatory Bodies | |
| Minimum Deposit | 0$ |
| Islamic Account | yes |
| Payment Methods | Bank transfer - credit card - Electronic Banks - Crypto |
| Main Branch | Australia |
| Customer Service | 24/5 |
| Demo account | not |
| Trading Platforms | Proprietary Platform -Web platform-mt4- mt5 |
Pros
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Beginner assistance offered through 24/6 channels.
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Spreads are as low as 0.0 pips.
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24/7 expert customer service.
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CFD shares and indices come at no extra fee.
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Zero broker fees for FOREX trading.
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Technical analysis and quality market information.
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Percentage allocation management module (PAMM) and Multi-account manager (MAM) accounts available.
Cons
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Direct share trading is on a separate platform.
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No binary options offered.
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Commissions charged for two account types.
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After a strong early start, ThinkTrader user ratings have slid to 3.4 stars.
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No US, Canada or Japan clients allowed.
There is a high degree of risk involved in trading securities like FOREX, or CFDs, which are highly complex instruments. As a trader, you could be exposed to excessive leverage, questionable broker tactics, market volatility, and limited regulatory protection. Despite your best trading techniques and risk management strategies, your efforts may not be profitable, and you could suffer losses.
What is FOREX and Why Do We Need a Broker to Trade?
The foreign exchange market is a decentralized marketplace where global currencies are bought and sold. Currency trading is conducted electronically over the counter (OTC). This means that all transactions occur via computer networks between traders all over the world rather than on one centralized exchange. The FOREX market operates 24 hours a day and five days a week (Monday to Friday), except for international holidays. The FOREX market is the largest financial market in the world with some six trillion dollars changing hands daily. FOREX brokers in Japan play a key role in this marketplace by enabling clients to buy and sell through a trading platform. Most trading platforms are accessible in web and mobile format.
How Do I Choose the Best FOREX Broker in Japan?
Japan is a highly developed free market economy. It is the third-largest economy in the world by GDP. The country has a population of 125 million people, many of whom are well-educated and upwardly mobile. It is, therefore, no surprise to learn that Japan is a hotbed for FOREX trading and has an illustrious history of brokerage firms allowing traders to make money from this activity.
It is often ranked among the world's most innovative countries. It leads several measures of global patent filings. Japan is a well-resourced and orderly society. Along these lines, Japanese authorities retain a controlling hand on the financial markets in the country to maintain its prosperity and stability.
Owing to this strong oversight and legislation, many of the best FOREX brokers in Japan have been attracted to work in the country’s world-class financial ecosystem. As the flagbearer of the country’s financial market infrastructure, the Tokyo Stock Exchange is well-known and highly respected. Indeed, it is now the third-largest stock exchange in the world, behind the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq.
In 1998, Japan’s Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Control Law was amended to make FOREX trading more accessible to everyday citizens. Since then, the Japanese yen has grown to make up almost 17% of the total global FOREX market.
FOREX Regulation and Licensing in Japan
Due to its time zone, Japan is one of the first global financial markets to open during a trading day. Thus, it sets the tone for the Asian trading session. With some $1 trillion in FOREX transactions taking place on Japanese markets daily, it is one of the most important parts of the global FOREX ecosystem.
Regulated FOREX brokers in Japan must obtain this licensing from the Financial Services Agency (FSA), a government-controlled authority that regulates and supervises all types of financial firms operating in the Japanese financial markets.
One of the FSA’s main objectives is to maintain the integrity of the Japanese economy by keeping close watch on the daily management of financial firms within the banking, insurance, securities and investments sectors.
The FSA is a 22-year-old organization that operates under the control of the Ministry of Finance, with direct reporting lines to the highest levels of government in Japan. Many observers say that this apparatus makes it one of the most mature and developed financial centers in the world. This renders the FSA a tier-1 regulator for FOREX brokers in Japan.
Ensure that your chosen broker is regulated by the FSA. FOREX brokers must be regulated by the same regulators that regulate other financial assets, such as crypto, commodities, and indices. If you want to learn more about some of the best-regarded regulators around the world, not just Japan, read our article on regulation here. Remember that you do not have to use a broker with international regulation if your local broker is regulated by a solid local regulator. In the case of Japan, you will be happy to know that the FSA enjoys a fine reputation and is regarded as a tier-one regulator.
Always Be Careful of Non-Regulated Brokers
It is important to learn more about regulatory bodies and their role in the FOREX market. Their role is two-fold:
1. Observing and regulating the work environment in the FOREX market; and
2. Protecting investors and their funds.
Therefore, working with a regulated broker isn't merely a matter of preference—it's a protective measure. When a broker is regulated, it undergoes stringent assessments to ensure transparency, fair trading practices, and due care of your financial security. Opting for an unregulated broker brings with it significant risks.
To ensure that your broker is legit, you can follow these steps:
- Ask if the broker is licensed to sell you FOREX
- Check if the broker is registered with a top-tier regulator or at least the applicable regulator in your area
- Ask if your broker is part of a compensation scheme
- Check your statements regularly to ensure that everything is in order
Remember that it's important to comply with all applicable requirements, including any self-regulatory organizations to which brokers belong, and not just those mentioned here.
Be Careful of Non-Regulated Brokers
Your broker should be regulated by a reputable authority who has a history of strong oversight. Your broker does not have to be regulated by an overseas watchdog, you can also go with a regulator in your jurisdiction. To check if your broker is registered with a regulator, navigate to the regulator’s official website.
Leverage
There are many important regulators around the world. Depending on the regulatory framework within which your broker operates, you'll encounter varying leverage rules. Several key regulators have introduced specific guidelines to safeguard retail traders.
Let's take a look at some of these leverage rules set by major regulators:
FSA in Japan:
25:1 for major currency pairs
10:1 for non-major currency pairs
10:1 for gold
10:1 for major stock market indices
10:1 for commodities (excluding gold)
5:1 for equities (stocks)
2:1 for cryptocurrencies
Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) in Australia:
30:1 for major currency pairs
20:1 for non-major currency pairs, gold, and major stock market indices
10:1 for commodities other than gold and minor stock market indices
5:1 for equities (stocks) and other underlying assets
2:1 for cryptocurrencies
Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) in Switzerland:
FINMA doesn't specify leverage limits like ASIC. However, Swiss brokers must strictly adhere to robust capital and risk management requirements, ensuring that they do not offer excessively high leverage that could endanger their financial stability or their clients' funds.
Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK:
30:1 for major currency pairs
20:1 for non-major currency pairs, gold, and major indices
10:1 for commodities (excluding gold) and non-major equity indices
5:1 for individual equities and other reference values
2:1 for cryptocurrencies
It's important to note that these regulations primarily apply to retail clients. Professional or institutional clients may have access to different leverage levels based on the regulatory environment and the broker's policies. As you can see, responsible regulators closely monitor leverage levels.
Leverage, while offering handsome profits, significantly increases potential losses. Engaging in high leverage trading without a robust risk management strategy is like navigating treacherous financial waters without a safety net. Approach leverage with caution, employ sound trading strategies, and always try to develop a comprehensive understanding of market behaviors and how they affect your portfolio when you trade on leverage.
Stop out
You never want to go into a negative balance as a trader. Therefore, it’s vital to know about the most important terms you will encounter as a FOREX trader. The term "stop out" refers to a situation where the most responsible and best FOREX brokers will automatically close some or all of your open positions to prevent your account from going into a negative balance.
This is most relevant for traders using leverage. The stop-out level is typically expressed as a percentage, representing the margin level at which the broker starts to close out open trades.
0% Stop Out Level:
At this level, when the margin level of the account drops to 0%, the broker will automatically close all open positions. This is the most aggressive stop out level. Essentially, as soon as the equity in the account equals the required margin, the positions get liquidated. This gives no room for your positions to recover even if the market turns in your favor immediately after reaching this level.
50% Stop Out Level:
Here, if the margin level drops to 50%, the broker will start closing out positions.
It offers a bit more flexibility compared to the 0% level. The broker will typically close the most unprofitable positions first, and if that's not enough to bring the margin level back above 50%, more positions will be closed until it's achieved.
100% Stop Out Level:
A 100% stop out level means that when a trader's equity equals the margin required for the open positions, the broker will start closing those positions. It’s important to know that this is similar to the 0% level but might be worded differently based on broker terminology.
In any case, the specific percentage and the order in which positions are closed can vary among brokers, so it's essential for traders to be aware of their broker's policy on stop-out levels.
It's worth noting that while stop-out procedures are meant to protect traders from negative balances, they can lead to significant losses in volatile markets if positions are closed automatically, especially if the market quickly reverses after the stop out. As such, using protective measures like stop-loss orders and not over-leveraging is always a good ploy.
Commissions and Fees
Trading fees can sometimes be hard to understand. Be sure to check how these fees compare with industry standards:
Spreads: There are two main kinds of spread, one is fixed and the other is variable. Generally, the spread refers to the gap between two prices, such as the bid/ask rate in a currency exchange rate. If you are getting a spread of 1.4 pips for the EUR/USD, you can rest easy that you are getting a good deal at present market rates. The narrower the better, this means that a spread of 1.4 pips is better than a spread of 2 pips. This article explains more about this important concept.
Commission: This is nothing more than the service charge that top FOREX brokers require for carrying out transactions on behalf of their clients.
Rollover Fees: When you leave a trade open overnight, the broker normally charges a rollover fee for the facility of holding your trade open for that period. This is because they assume the risk of the market changing adversely.
Withdrawal and Deposit Fees: Some platforms might charge fees for depositing or withdrawing funds. Pay attention to this. It's important to be aware of these and any associated limits or conditions.
Subscription or Inactivity Fees: Certain platforms have monthly charges or fees for inactive accounts. Ensure you're aware of these potential costs.
To keep track of trading fees, you can follow these steps:
- Research different brokers and trading platforms.
- Compare the fees and charges of each platform.
- Choose a platform that offers competitive fees and suits your trading needs.
Remember that trading fees can have a significant impact on your trading profits, so it's important to choose a platform that offers competitive fees and suits your trading needs.
| Spread | Commission | Swap | Islamic Account | |
| Currencies | Starting from 1.3 Pips | 0$ | No | Available |
| Stocks | Starting from 18 Pips | 0$ | Yes | Unavailable |
| Commodities | Starting from 2.3 Pips | 0$ | No | Available |
| Indices | Starting from 4 Pips | 0$ | Yes | Unavailable |
| Spread | Commission | Swap | Islamic Account | |
| Currencies | Starting from 0.14 Pips | $0 | No | Available |
| Stocks | Starting from 0 Pips | $0 | No | Available |
| Commodities | Starting from 2 cent | $0 | No | Available |
| Indices | Starting from 0.2 Pips | $0 | No | Available |
| Spread | Commission | Swap | Islamic Account | |
| Currencies | Starting from 0.2 Pips | 0$ | No | Available |
| Stocks | Not Mentioned | 0$ | Yes | Unavailable |
| Commodities | Starting from 8 Pips | 0$ | No | Available |
| Indices | Starting from 4 Pips | 0$ | Yes | Unavailable |
| Spread | Commission | Swap | Islamic Account | |
| Currencies | Starting from 0.6 Pips | 0$ | Yes | Unavailable |
| Stocks | Starting from 2.4 Pips | 0$ | Yes | Unavailable |
| Commodities | Starting from 0.1 Pips | 0$ | Yes | Unavailable |
| Indices | Starting from 0.2 Pips | 0$ | Yes | Unavailable |
| Spread | Commission | Swap | Islamic Account | |
| Currencies | Starting from 0.9 Pips | $0 | Yes | Unavailable |
| Stocks | Starting from $0.02 | $6 | Yes | Unavailable |
| Commodities | Starting from $0.6 | $6 | Yes | Unavailable |
| Indices | Starting from $0.7 | $6 | Yes | Unavailable |
| Spread | Commission | Swap | Islamic Account | |
| Currencies | Starting from 0.5 Pips | $0 | Yes | Unavailable |
| Stocks | Starting from $0.2 | $10 | Yes | Unavailable |
| Commodities | Starting from 0.2 Pips | $0 | Yes | Unavailable |
| Indices | Starting from 0.5 Pips | $0 | Yes | Unavailable |
| Spread | Commission | Swap | Islamic Account | |
| Currencies | Starting from 0.4 Pips | $0 | Yes | Unavailable |
| Stocks | Starting from 0.1% | $0 | Yes | Unavailable |
| Commodities | Starting from $0.19 | $0 | Yes | Unavailable |
| Indices | Starting from 0.4 Pips | $0 | Yes | Unavailable |
Payments, Deposits, and Withdrawals in Japan
Transacting from your FOREX account in Japan is very easy. As we have mentioned, the banking industry in this country is highly developed and secure. All payment providers in the value chain are mature enough to offer comprehensive services. As such, local brokers accept all major payment methods. These include credit and debit cards, wire transfers, as well as all major eWallets.
| Method | Credit Card | Wire Transfer | Skrill | Neteller | Cryptocurrency | PayPal |
| Deposit fee | 0$ | $0 + Bank commission | 1.9% | 2.5% | Unavailable | 3.75% |
| Withdrawal fee | 0$ | $15 | 1% | $0 | Unavailable | 2% |
| Method | Credit Card | Wire Transfer | Skrill | Neteller | Cryptocurrency | PayPal |
| Deposit fee | 0$ | 0$ | 1.9% | 2.5% | $0 | 3.75% |
| Withdrawal fee | 0$ | 0$ | 1% | $0 | $0 | 2% |
| Method | Credit Card | Wire Transfer | Skrill | Neteller | Cryptocurrency | PayPal |
| Deposit fee | 0$ | $0 + Bank commission | 1% | 1% | Unavailable | Unavailable |
| Withdrawal fee | 1.5% | 30$ | 1% | 1% | Unavailable | Unavailable |
| Method | Credit Card | Wire Transfer | Skrill | Neteller | Cryptocurrency | PayPal |
| Deposit fee | 0$ | $0 + Bank commission | Unavailable | Unavailable | Unavailable | 3.4% + fixed fee |
| Withdrawal fee | 0$ | $0 + Bank commission | Unavailable | Unavailable | Unavailable | 3.4% + fixed fee |
| Method | Credit Card | Wire Transfer | Skrill | Neteller | Cryptocurrency | PayPal |
| Deposit fee | 0$ | $0 + Bank commission | Unavailable | Unavailable | Unavailable | Unavailable |
| Withdrawal fee | 0$ | $0 + Bank commission | Unavailable | Unavailable | Unavailable | Unavailable |
| Method | Credit Card | Wire Transfer | Skrill | Neteller | Cryptocurrency | PayPal |
| Deposit fee | 0$ | $0 + Bank commission | Unavailable | Unavailable | Unavailable | Unavailable |
| Withdrawal fee | 0$ | $0 + Bank commission | Unavailable | Unavailable | Unavailable | Unavailable |
| Method | Credit Card | Wire Transfer | Skrill | Neteller | Cryptocurrency | PayPal |
| Deposit fee | 0$ | $0 + Bank commission | 0$ | 2.5% | Not mentioned | Unavailable |
| Withdrawal fee | 0$ | $0 + Bank commission | 5.50$ | 0-7.5% | Not mentioned | Unavailable |
FOREX Trading Customer Service
As timing is key to FOREX trading, you must pick the best online broker that can provide good customer support around the clock. This most notably includes the company representatives being easy to reach, fast and polite, which will, in turn, spare you the trouble of having to worry about problems down the road.
| Live Chat | Phone | |||
| Available | Available | Available | Available | Available |
| Quick response | Very Fast | Very Fast | Very Fast | Very Fast |
| Live Chat | Phone | |||
| Available | Available | Available | Available | Available |
| Quick response | Quick response | Fast | Fast | Fast |
| Live Chat | Phone | |||
| Available | Available | Available | Available | Not Available |
| Quick response | Very Fast | Moderate | Moderate | Not Available |
| Live Chat | Phone | |||
| Available | Available | Available | Available | Not Available |
| Quick response | Very Fast | Very Fast | Moderate | Not Available |
| Live Chat | Phone | |||
| Available | Available | Not Available | Available | Not Available |
| Quick response | Slow | Not Available | Moderate | Not Available |
| Live Chat | Phone | |||
| Available | Available | Not Available | Available | Not Available |
| Quick response | Moderate | Not Available | Moderate | Not Available |
| Live Chat | Phone | |||
| Available | Available | Available | Available | Not Available |
| Quick response | Moderate | Fast | Moderate | Not Available |
Technical Aspects of the Broker’s Website
When it comes to sharing sensitive personal information online, such as a credit card, cyber security is paramount. You should, therefore, always be on the lookout for SSL certification and two-factor authentication (especially when registering with a new site). Your broker should implement robust encryption and data protection measures to safeguard your information, such as personal details and financial data. Additionally, it's always best practice, especially in today's world, to make your password as strong as possible and not to store it anywhere it can be found.
Ask Other Traders on Our Network
Arincen has created a user-friendly Website that boasts an engaging social network where traders can learn from each other in an informed and supportive community. Every trader’s journey starts with small steps, and it helps to be able to watch and study the trades of more experienced investors with good track records. This important feature has allowed many traders to make their learning journey smoother.
Recommended Brokers
Which FOREX broker has the best platform?
MetaTrader’s pioneering MT4 platform has been providing excellent features and functionality in the FOREX trading world for many years. It is trusted by scores of brokers, whose clients, in turn, come to love the interface. Some of MT4’s best known features include powerful charting tools and insightful analytical packages. However, if you are open to trying a new approach, you can try a proprietary platform. If you go this way, Saxo Bank offers advanced trading features and high-performing tools with unrivaled market analysis.
Which FOREX broker charges the lowest fees?
We can attest that ICM’s ECN is unmatched in terms of low fees. No matter the experience level of the trader, they can find pricing that suits their pocket, while still getting all the best the broker has to offer.
Which FOREX broker offers the most CFDs?
After conducting thorough research, we can say with confidence that CMC Markets and IG offer the widest range of CFD selections and are some of the best trading platforms in Japan.
Which FOREX broker offers the most assets?
CMC Markets and IG are the two best FOREX brokers in Japan we would recommend for the broadest and most comprehensive range of financial assets.
Which FOREX broker is best for professionals?
Professional traders have worked hard to be successful in their field. As such, they are always on the lookout for online brokerages that have worked just as hard to offer the best features they can.
These features normally include fast execution speeds, deep liquidity, and responsive customer support. Research and educational resources are two key areas that experienced traders try to make the most of as they can make better and faster decisions with reliable and expertly curated information. In this case, you should look for brokers that use MT4, an industry icon that offers all the above.
FOREX Trading Scams and How to Avoid Them
The role of the FSA is to ensure the stability of Japan's financial system as well as the protection of depositors, insurance policyholders, and securities investors. Like many alert regulators, the FSA runs an information-sharing service where it reveals detailed information on the latest scams. On its Website, this information is labeled under “Investor alert.” The FSA also shares contact numbers for traders to use if they need to make a report or lodge a dispute.
The FSA encourages informed participation by investors and consumers. With such oversight, FOREX scams are difficult to launch in a country with so many safeguards. The FSA can also withdraw the licenses of brokers it deems a threat to the smooth functioning of the marketplace.
Will Your Money be Protected If Your Broker Becomes Insolvent?
Noting that, “Compensation practices at large financial institutions are one factor among many that contributed to the financial crisis that began in 2007,” the FSA seeks to lay out clear best practices for compensating affected consumers.
The FSA mandates that all financial firms working under its purview institute compensation practices according to its guidelines. The FSA does not state an explicit amount for which traders must be compensated but instead lays out detailed guidelines by which firms must abide. It is clear that firms must offer traders some form of compensation, but the exact amount is linked to the riskiness of the assets under trade, and the volumes at which they are traded, among other considerations.
The Dos and Don’ts of FOREX Brokers
One of the first things a new FOREX trader ought to do is to check the extent to which the FOREX company abides by the rules and regulations governing its operation. Emphasis must be placed on what it can and cannot do.
There are seven things brokerage firms cannot do:
- The FOREX brokerage firm cannot recommend a buy or sell;
- The FOREX brokerage firm must not provide price or market expectations (rise/fall);
- The FOREX firm cannot control your financial dealings (deposit/withdrawal);
- The FOREX brokerage firm should not “manage” your portfolio under any circumstance;
- The FOREX brokerage firm cannot grant a client a bonus unless there are clear terms guiding it from beforehand;
- The brokerage firm must not use bank accounts not under its name; and
- FOREX brokerage firms cannot have or offer the service of account managers.
In short, the role of brokerage firms is strictly confined to facilitating buyers and sellers to come together toward an agreed-upon commission. FOREX brokerage firms that violate any of the seven rules aforementioned should be avoided. However, should the trader wish to receive any of the above-mentioned services, our advice is to seek an expert Website like Arincen, something we will delve into toward the end of this article.
Recommended Brokers
What Trading Platforms, Tools, and Features Should a Broker Offer?
It's important to consider a range of features that cater to both novice and seasoned traders when choosing a platform. Here are some elements of the best trading brokers to keep in mind:
Technical analysis tools: The platform should have robust technical indicators to help traders make informed decisions.
Customization and user interface: Traders should be able to mold the platform according to their preferences, allowing them to set up their trading environment precisely how they want.
Platform accessibility: A top-notch trading platform should offer flexibility in terms of access, whether it's web-based or a downloadable application.
Risk-management tools: Trading inherently comes with risks, and a high-quality platform should provide instruments that allow traders to set stop-losses, take-profits, and other crucial order types.
Performance and reliability: Beginner traders especially need a platform that operates seamlessly with minimal downtimes or glitches. This ensures a smooth trading journey, allowing them to focus on market movements rather than technical hiccups.
Learning and educational resources: The best brokers will offer platforms that are not only intuitive but also come with tutorials, guides, and responsive customer support to assist traders in navigating any challenges they might face.
To choose the perfect trading platform, you can follow these steps:
- Decide on your trading style and needs
- Research different platforms such as MT4 and MT5, and compare their features
- Test the platforms with a demo account to see which one suits you best
- Choose a platform that offers the features you need and is user-friendly
- Ensure that the platform is reliable and has a good reputation in the industry
Remember that the trading platform you choose can have a significant impact on your trading success, so it's important to choose wisely.
Tip: Invest in Your knowledge
For every aspiring retail trader, knowledge is key to a successful trading journey. We invite you to delve into Arincen's goldmine of insights, strategies, and expert analyses. Whether you're just embarking on your trading venture or trying to level up your trading game, our resources are designed to give you all the information you need. Visit our educational resources here.
What Tradable Assets and Instruments Should My Broker Offer?
Online trading offers a wide range of financial instruments, each with its own opportunities and challenges. Here are some of the most common:
- FOREX: By reading this article, you are already curious about FOREX. This type of trading involves buying and selling currencies from different countries on the foreign exchange market with the goal of making a profit. This is done through a broker with an online platform, like MT4 or MT5. FOREX brokers provide tools to traders for executing buy and sell orders in the currency markets. Retail FOREX traders typically look for some popular features when identifying and using a currency trading platform. Traders look for ease of installation and use, which can lead to comparisons of web-based platforms versus downloadable platforms. Fees can be an important consideration as well because the costs can range broadly depending on individual systems.
- CFDs: CFDs allow you to speculate on the future market movements of an underlying asset without actually owning or taking delivery of the asset. CFDs are traded on margin, meaning the broker allows you to borrow money to increase leverage or the size of your position to amplify gains.
- Equities or stocks: These represent ownership in a company and trading them involves buying and selling shares of publicly traded companies.
- Commodities: Items of value such as gold, oil, wheat, and coffee can be traded through a broker or online trading platform.
- Indices: These are a measure of the performance of a group of stocks or other assets. Trading indices involve buying and selling a basket of stocks or other assets that make up the index.
- Bonds: These are debt securities issued by companies or governments to raise capital. When you buy a bond, you are lending money to the issuer, who promises to pay you back with interest later.
- Options: Options are contracts that give the buyer the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell an underlying asset at a predetermined price and time.
- Futures: These types of contracts obligate the buyer to purchase an underlying asset at a predetermined price and time in the future. This is done through a broker or online trading platform.
To start trading with any of the top brokers in Japan, take note of these vital steps:
- Determine which financial instruments you want to trade.
- Research different brokers and trading platforms.
- Open a trading account with a reputable broker.
- Fund your account and start trading.
Remember that trading involves risks, and it's important to have a solid understanding of the financial instruments you're trading and the risks that come with the territory.
| Brokers | Currency pairs | Stocks | Indices | Commodities | Crypto | ETFs |
| ICM Capital | 67 Pairs | 89 Shares | 17 Indices | 12 Commodity | 6 Coins | Unavailable |
| Tradview | 80 Pairs | 5000 Shares | 10 Indices | 10 Commodity | 30 Coins | Unavailable |
| XTB | 57 Pairs | 1848 Shares | 36 Indices | 22 Commodity | 22 Coins | 135 ETFs |
| IG | 108 Pairs | 20000 Shares | 200 Indices | 20 Commodity | 5 Coins | 200 ETFs |
| Saxo Bank | 320 Pairs | 22000 Shares | 200 Indices | 200 Commodity | 9 Coins | 6700 ETFs |
| CMC Markets | 330 Pairs | 8000 Shares | 80 Indices | 100 Commodity | 18 Coins | 200 ETFs |
| Think Markets | 46 Pairs | 3750 Shares | 15 Indices | 11 Commodity | 21 Coins | 350 ETFs |
Who is Arincen and What Do We Do?
Put simply, Arincen is a social networking platform that brings together traders and experts to exchange expertise and ideas. Together, we evaluate the best FOREX companies in the world while offering a comprehensive suite of services and tools, all in one place, either via a computer or a mobile app. The platform is so rich that you can create your own private portfolio of traders and experts you like and, at the same time, follow their recommendations and investment sentiments.
Further, thanks to Arincen, users can keep an eye on market-price developments, as well as the latest news. Users can also benefit from the network’s educational courses on offer, to say nothing of exciting Webinars – all done in a modern and fast-paced work environment. Get everything you need in one place. Our motto: We Meet to Simplify the Trading World.
Conclusion
You are at the start of an exciting journey. There will be highs and lows. If you stay the course, you will encounter both the pain of suffering losses and the thrill of making profits. If anything, the key message to take away from this article is that, for you, the best FOREX broker in Japan will be one that is legally licensed and well-regulated. That's the best way to protect yourself. From there, make sure you investigate the tools and platforms your chosen broker offers. The best FOREX brokers should offer you a good deal in terms of fees, and they should have a fully equipped customer service desk and a range of educational materials for your convenience. You can keep referring to this article as you build a checklist of the most important items to remember.
Arincen’s Review Methodology
The team at Arincen collected more than 120 pieces of data covering more than 100 licensed FOREX companies. Data collection was done in three ways:
- Companies’ Websites.
- Other Websites that have ranked FOREX companies.
- A survey questionnaire (referred to here as Survey “1”) was sent to the companies invited to participate in the exercise. We have identified 13 criteria for our assessment, each containing several aspects and carrying its own relative weight. These include licensing, deposits and withdrawals, number of assets etc.
Afterwards, we validated the data by:
- Registering with FOREX companies as a secret shopper and/or as Arincen.
- Survey number “2,” in which we asked these companies’ customers for important feedback and past experience.
The next step saw us evaluate and rank each company, relying on the hard work of 15 Arincen employees. We were careful in ensuring the most accurate assessment possible, including taking into account different languages, as well as the various mobile-app operating systems, e.g., Apple, Samsung, etc.
To add credibility to our research project, we sent a final and third survey (referred to here as Survey “3”) to enable participating FOREX companies to evaluate our research and whether it accurately reflects the realities on the ground. We were fortunate enough to receive a mark of 9.9 out of 10! We have kept to a minimum the margin of error, which stood at a measly 1%. To learn more about how we came up with the evaluation, please click here.
Forex Risk Disclaimer
Trading foreign exchange on margin carries a high level of risk, and may not be suitable for all investors. The high degree of leverage can work against you as well as for you. Before deciding to trade foreign exchange you should carefully consider your investment objectives, level of experience, and risk appetite. The possibility exists that you could sustain a loss of some or all of your initial investment and therefore you should not invest money that you cannot afford to lose. You should be aware of all the risks associated with foreign exchange trading, and seek advice from an independent financial advisor if you have any doubts.
FAQ
Is FOREX trading legal in Japan?
Yes, trading FOREX trading is legal in Japan. Brokers must comply with national laws by registering with the appropriate regulator, the FSA. Only then can they offer their services to traders living in Japan.
What is FOREX?
The FOREX market is a place where global currencies are bought and sold. It is a large and active marketplace that requires technologically superior tools if you are to participate as a retail trader. The market operates 24 hours a day and five days a week (Monday through Friday), except international holidays.
What is FOREX trading?
FOREX trading involves buying and selling different worldwide currencies for a profit. Retail traders select a currency pair and, in anticipation of market-driven changes in value, wait for the right moment to make a sale for a profit.
What costs and commissions are associated with FOREX trading?
The best FOREX brokers charge any combination of commissions, spreads, and financing fees. Brokers can either charge a spread (the difference between the buy and sell price of a currency pair) and include their facility fee in the spread, or they can charge only a market rate spread and levy a commission per trade outside the spread.
Financing fees come into play if you hold your position overnight. You must pay a financing cost for the benefit of keeping your positions open for an extended time.
How important is good customer service in FOREX trading?
Good customer service is important to FOREX traders operating in such a fast-moving marketplace. Having access to expert customer service agents means they will always have someone ready to help them resolve any problems. Customer service staff members should be readily accessible, well-trained, and knowledgeable.
Do FOREX traders pay tax?
FOREX trading is taxable in Japan. Traders are compelled to keep a close eye on their earnings because profits above a certain level attract both regional and state taxes. Speak to a tax expert for more information.
Written by
Adrian Ashley
Adrian Ashley is a seasoned business and finance writer. With a corporate career spanning over 20years, he has developed deep experience in such diverse areas as investing, business, finance,technology and macroeconomics. He is passionate about captu...
Edited by
Marwan Kardoosh
The Editorial Department at Arincen makes an important contribution to the world-class content that...
Fact Checked by
Bahaa Khateeb
Bahaa Khateeb is currently the CEO of Arincen, a start-up Fintech company based in Haifa. Baha...
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