Forex Broker: GFC Markets Review

History and Background
GFC Markets is a forex broker owned and operated by SafeCap Investments, an investment firm headquartered in Cyprus. SafeCap Investments was previously known as Arbat Capital Limited, but assumed its new name in 2009, upon the granting of regulatory approval to GFC Markets in 2009.

The firm is regulated by CySec in Cyprus and by the FSA in the UK.

Please note that GFC Markets does not accept U.S. clients. therefore, if you are located in the U.S. we suggest choosing another top rated broker.

Unique Features of Trading with GFC Markets
Some of the interesting, if not unique features of GFC Capital include regulation by multiple institutions, the "welcome bonuses" that reward customers for high trading volume, a low initial deposit requirement of $50, and three separate trading packages tailored to client's lifestyle and expectations. GFC Markets does not stand out in any one respect, but leaves the impression of an overall solid firm with no obvious weaknesses.

Account Types
The minimum initial deposit requirement at GFC Markets is $50 for the mini account, while maximum leverage is fixed at 200:1 (keep in mind that increasing the leverage as part of your strategy also increases risk). There are three types of accounts available to forex clients based on funding:

As mentioned, the mini account requires a minimum deposit of $50 dollars, however, traders who deposit at least $100 can receive a $50 bonus. Owners of a mini account can receive mobile alerts for a fee. GFC Markets provides a welcome bonus of up to $250 (depending on the initial deposit amount) to holders of this type of account which can be withdrawn when the trade volume in the client's account reaches a predetermined value.

Accounts funded with $2,500 are subject to the terms of a standard account. Standard clients receive up to a $2,000 welcome bonus from GFC Markets and also receive the News to Mobile trade alerts feature for free.

Finally, traders who fund their accounts with a sum in excess of $20,000 receive VIP status at GFC Markets. Apart from a higher welcome bonus which is determined by negotiation between the trader and the firm, GFC Markets provides free FX Signals to VIP clients via SMS.

Another interesting feature is that trading by phone calls through the dealing desk or online interaction with the system through no dealing-desk (NDD) trading are both possible at GFC Markets

Trading Software
The trading platform of GFC Markets comes in three different formats. Although each platform offers the same technical analytical capabilities for the most part, their accessibility and security features vary widely.

The GFC Trader is the equivalent of a standard trading software for home use. The software comes equipped with highest functionality, and features some of the most advanced safety technologies for online trading, but is also based on an assumption that it will be used at home by the trader. This platform is Windows-based, downloadable and easy to install and operate. A drag-and-drop interface enables one click orders for traders who are active and require fast reaction times from the software.

The GFC Java Trader is a groundbreaking option, especially for those who are on the move. As a Java-based platform it offers the highest degree of safety to a trader who must resort to public computers at times, while sacrificing nothing from functionality. The GFC Java Trader does not require installation. The broker's demo platform is also based on the Java Trader software which adds to the value of their demo account.

The GFC Mobile is mostly used by those in a hurry, on occasions when a trader desires instant access to the markets in order to exploit an emerging opportunity, or to liquidate a losing position. It is not as functional as the other two platforms, but it serves its purpose well.

Deposits and Withdrawals
GFC Markets accepts deposits via Visa, MasterCard and Diner's Club credit cards. It is also possible to transfer funds by wire or WebMoney, in addition to negotiable options for local transfer channels.

There are no fees involved in the deposit and withdrawal process and credit card deposits or withdrawals are instantly credited. The firm reports that there may be some delays during wire transfers arising out of routine problems in the interbank market, however this pertains to most brokers. For any deposit exceeding $2,500, GFC Markets is committed to reimbursing the client for any transaction fees charged by banks or similar intermediaries.

Withdrawals are expected to take place within three days at most with wire transfers, although the aforementioned delays in the banking system can cause this period to be lengthened in some unusual cases. In order to initiate a withdrawal, the client must submit the relevant form which can easily be downloaded from the website of the broker.

Customer Support
GFC Markets provides excellent customer and beginner support with a staff that is available 24 hours a day during the working week.  They offer over 25 local phone numbers from various countries, several email addresses to different departments and a live chat that makes getting in touch with a representative relatively simple in comparison to other brokers. Client concerns are addressed in the caller's native language and although the employees of the firm are not authorized to give investment advice, they do provide guidance, information and support depending on the trader's knowledge level.

Conclusion
GFC Markets stands out from other brokers in the industry being that they are regulated by two credible EU authorities; the FSA and the CySec. The firm has been active for the past three years, which is about average for a new firm in the forex brokerage business. The $50 initial deposit requirement is considered relatively low. Superior customer service, educational resources and leverage as high as 200:1 (increasing leverage, increases risk) tailors to both professional, as well as beginner traders.

The Java-based platform and mobile trading options are interesting features, and the basic software package, the GFC Trader platform is overall a competent system for a typical trader's needs. For traders looking to open an account with larger sums of money, you are rewarded with access to more features such as free signals etc.

The website of the broker provides more than sufficient information about just about any question that you may have about the firm's business, and you're invited to take a look yourself if you are interested in learning more about GFC Markets and opening an account.