FBS Australia Review 2024
Highlights of FBS AU
FBS AU is an Australian broker regulated by ASIC, ensuring a high level of security and reliability.
The broker is characterized by low spreads and commissions, which are advantageous for active traders. Opening an account is simple and fast, with access to numerous educational resources, including webinars and demo accounts, which help improve trading skills.
Pros and Cons of FBS AU
Pros
- Low spreads and commissions.
- Wide range of trading assets.
- Extensive database of educational materials and analytical tools.
Cons
- Limited choice of trading accounts.
- Limited trading platforms.
FBS AU Broker Overview
Foundation Year | 2007 |
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Official Website | https://fbsaustralia.com |
Regulated in Countries | Belize, Cyprus, Australia, South AfricaMore Details |
Minimum Deposit |
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Spread | from 0 points |
Max Leverage | 1:30 |
Trading Assets |
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Trading Platforms |
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Email Support |
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Hotline Phones | |
Social Media |
FBS Inc., the largest broker in Southeast Asia, was founded in 2008 by merging several dealing centres. Since 2009, FBS Inc. has been active in internet trading, providing services using STP technologies online.
FBS Inc. has attracted over 3 million traders as clients. The company has been repeatedly honoured as the best Asian broker and has received awards in prestigious Forex market categories.
FBS AU is in the top 10 of the following ratings:
FBS AU Review Summary
- Strong international and Australian ASIC regulation.
- Segregation of client funds.
- Transparency in operations.
During our review of the FBS broker, we strictly adhered to our proven evaluation methodology, which includes an analysis of several key aspects such as security, fees, platforms, markets, education, analytics, and support. This detailed and balanced approach lets us present you with the most comprehensive and objective picture, enabling you to make informed decisions. Continue reading to learn more about how FBS performed in these aspects.
Reliability and Regulation
FBS is regulated by several international regulators, ensuring transparency and security of client services.
Among the central regulators overseeing FBS activities are:
Legal Entity | Regulator | Review |
---|---|---|
FBS Markets Inc. FBS Markets Inc. | BFSC BFSC | FBS review |
Tradestone Limited Tradestone Limited | CySEC CySEC | FBS EU review |
Intelligent Financial Markets Pty Ltd. Intelligent Financial Markets Pty Ltd. | ASIC ASIC | Current review |
TRADE STONE SA (PTY) LTD. TRADE STONE SA (PTY) LTD. | FSCA FSCA | — |
These regulators set strict requirements for broker operations and monitor compliance with rules such as transparency and openness of information, client and broker funds segregation, and minimum capital requirements. All this makes FBS a reliable and controlled broker with whom clients can cooperate without fear for the safety of their funds and the integrity of trading.
Regulation in Australia
In Australia, FBS operates under the wing of Intelligent Financial Markets Pty Ltd, which is duly authorized and regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) with AFS Licence number 426359. This regulatory framework ensures that FBS adheres to the stringent standards set forth by one of the world's most respected financial regulatory bodies. ASIC's oversight guarantees that FBS maintains high levels of operational integrity, including implementing fair trading practices and providing transparent financial reporting. This level of regulation is instrumental in providing traders with the confidence that they are dealing with a broker that is not only reliable but also committed to upholding the highest standards of regulatory compliance.
Moreover, the regulatory environment in Australia offers additional layers of security to traders through mechanisms such as the Australian Financial Services Compensation Scheme. While FBS does not directly mention a compensation scheme on its platform, the regulatory framework in Australia is designed to protect investors and traders by providing a safety net in the unlikely event of the broker's financial failure. This includes segregating client and broker funds and ensuring that traders' capital is kept in separate accounts and cannot be used by the broker for operational purposes. These measures collectively make FBS a secure and trustworthy broker for Australian traders, reinforcing the safety of their funds and the integrity of their trading activities.
Account Opening
FBS offers a relatively simple and fast account opening process, but verification can take time.
Registration
The first step is to fill out the registration form on the official FBS website. You must provide your email and full name, then click the "Register as a trader" button. The information must be current and accurate, as it will be used later for identity verification.
Verification
After completing the registration form, you must complete the identity verification process. This is an essential step as it ensures the security of your funds and prevents fraud. For verification, you must provide copies of documents confirming your identity and residence. Typically, this would be a passport or driver's license and a utility bill or bank statement. Carefully follow the instructions on the FBS website and upload the necessary documents. Document review usually takes from several hours to several days.
Minimum Deposit
For comfortable trading, FBS recommends a deposit of 100 USD. However, this is just a recommendation. The minimum deposit for all trading accounts is 50 USD, AUD or EUR.
Account Types
FBS offers a diverse range of account types, including Standard, Pro, Cent, Demo, STP, and Islamic accounts, catering to the needs of most traders, from beginners to experienced market participants. These options provide flexibility in terms of spreads, commission structures, and leverage, ensuring that traders can select the account that best fits their trading strategy and experience level. However, it's notable that there are no investment accounts available for those looking to earn passively, such as through copy trading of successful traders, nor are there accounts with fixed spreads. This might limit options for traders interested in more passive investment strategies or those preferring the predictability of fixed spreads.
Trading Accounts
Standard | Cent | Ultra | |
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Account Currency | AUD, USD, EUR | ||
Minimum Deposit | 50 A$ | ||
Trading Platforms | MetaTrader 5FBS Trader | ||
Spread | floatingfrom 0.7 pipsfor EURUSD~ 0.9 pips | floatingfrom 0.6 pipsfor EURUSD~ 0.9 pips | floatingfrom 0 pipsfor EURUSD~ 0.1 pips |
Commission per Trade | per 1 lot3 $ | ||
Trading Assets | ForexIndicesStocksCryptocurrencyPrecious MetalsEnergy Carriers | ForexIndicesPrecious MetalsEnergy Carriers | ForexIndicesStocksCryptocurrencyPrecious MetalsEnergy Carriers |
Opened Positions | up to 400 | ||
Leverage | 1:1-1:30 | ||
Margin Call / Stop Out | 80% / 50% | ||
Order Execution | STP | MM | STP |
Demo Account | |||
Islamic Account | |||
Open AccountRegister | Open AccountRegister | Open AccountRegister |
The broker offers three distinct types of trading accounts, each designed to cater to the varied needs of different traders:
Standard Account. Market execution time is from 0.3 seconds, making it suitable for traders who prefer trading in larger volumes without additional costs per trade.
The Cent Account is designed for beginners who wish to trade smaller lots and gain market experience with minimal risk.
The Ultra Account is best suited for high-volume traders looking for the lowest possible spreads and willing to pay a commission for each trade.
Each account type is designed to meet traders' specific needs and preferences at different experience levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals. It offers a range of options in terms of spreads, commissions, and trading volumes.
Islamic Account
Beyond the standard account types, FBS also provides Islamic accounts (swap-free) for clients who adhere to Islamic banking principles. Customers can open An Islamic account based on the Standard or Cent account by contacting customer support.
Demo Account
FBS allows users to work on a training demo account without opening a real account. Standard and Cent accounts offered by FBS are accessible in demo mode.
An account may be forcibly closed if no transactions occur within 45 days.
Automated Trading
Company clients can access automated trading using advisors, robots, technical indicators, and oscillators. Trading can be conducted from both desktop and mobile devices.
Professional Clients
For traders confident in their skills and seeking more flexibility in their trading strategies, the transition from a retail client to a Professional category offers a range of benefits. While retail clients are protected under ASIC regulations, including leverage caps of up to 1:30, they face certain restrictions that may limit their trading potential. Experienced traders opting for the Professional category can access increased leverage of up to 1:500, among other exclusive features, albeit with some trade-offs regarding protections.
Retail vs. Professional Features Comparison
Features | Retail | PRO |
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Increased Leverage | No | Yes |
Negative Balance Protection | Yes | Yes |
Lower Stop-Out Level | No | Yes |
Access to VIP Analytics | No | Yes |
Priority Service | No | Yes |
Access to FSG and PDS | Yes | No |
Professional clients benefit from priority service, with all deposits processed first and customer support requests moved to the front of the queue. This ensures that professional traders receive assistance as quickly as possible.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Professional category, traders must meet specific criteria:
- Wealth Criteria. Possession of AUD 2.5 million net assets or a gross income of AUD 250,000 annually for the last two financial years.
- Sophisticated Investor Criteria. The annual income of at least AUD 100,000 or net assets of at least AUD 500,000, along with experience in the financial sector.
- Business Criteria. Utilization of services and products in connection with a business not classified as a small business.
- Professional Investor Criteria. Being a Financial Services Licensee, controlling at least $10 million, or meeting other Wholesale Investor criteria.
These criteria ensure that only genuinely experienced and financially stable traders can take advantage of the increased risks and rewards associated with the Professional category.
Commissions
FBS Broker's commissions are assessed as average. Additionally, it is essential to consider the possibility of a withdrawal fee being charged in some instances.
Spreads and Swaps
FBS has certain specifics regarding spreads and swaps. Spreads on FBS's standard account are slightly below the market average, which is advantageous for active traders. FBS swaps are the market average.
Asset | Average spread | Swap long | Swap short |
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AUDUSD | 1.5 pips | -6.34 pips | -0.90 pips |
EURUSD | 0.9 pips | -5.46 pips | 0.61 pips |
GBPUSD | 1.0 pips | -2.91 pips | -1.15 pips |
NZDUSD | 1.4 pips | -0.55 pips | -1.40 pips |
USDCAD | 1.5 pips | -1.17 pips | -2.98 pips |
USDCHF | 1.0 pips | 2.30 pips | -11.97 pips |
USDJPY | 1.1 pips | 6.25 pips | -28.74 pips |
Commission per lot
FBS imposes a commission on its Ultra account, charging $3 per lot for one side of the trade. This rate is considered average in the market.
Below is the commission per lot for the EURUSD pair at different Forex brokers.
Broker | IC Markets AURaw Spread | Pepperstone AURazor | FBS AUUltra | CMC Markets AUFX Active | Vantage AURaw |
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Commission per lot | $3.5 | $3.5 | $3 | $2.5 | $3 |
Withdrawal Commission
FBS typically does not charge a commission for fund withdrawal. However, the company reserves the right to withhold previously reimbursed amounts in case of abuse of the commission compensation policy or lack of trading activity. In the latter case, if you request a withdrawal, the company reserves the right to withhold an amount equivalent to any bank charges or 3% of the total withdrawal amount.
Deposit and Withdrawal
FBS offers various methods for depositing and withdrawing funds, allowing traders to choose the most convenient and rapid option.
Account Funding Methods
Payment System | Currencies | Deposit Fee | Operation Limit |
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Neteller | USDEURAUD | 3.9%+ 0.21 USD limitscommission limits | from 10 to 100000 USD |
Skrill | USDEURAUD | 0% | from 12 to 500000 USD |
Bank Transfer | USDEURAUD | 0% | — |
Visa | USDEURAUD | 0% | from 3 to 999999 USDfrom 4 to 50000 EUR |
Mastercard | USDEURAUD | 0% | from 3 to 999999 USDfrom 4 to 50000 EUR |
Withdrawal Methods
Payment System | Currencies | Withdrawal Fee | Operation Limit |
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Neteller | USDEURAUD | 4.99% limitscommission limits | — |
Skrill | USDEURAUD | 4.99% limitscommission limits | — |
Bank Transfer | USDEURAUD | 0% | — |
Visa | USDEURAUD | 0%+ 0.5 EUR limitscommission limits | — |
Mastercard | USDEURAUD | 0%+ 0.5 EUR limitscommission limits | — |
Withdrawal requests are processed within two business days.
Transaction processing time and fees can vary depending on the chosen method. It is recommended that you review the conditions of each method and select the one that is most convenient for you.
Markets and Products
FBS offers a diverse range of trading assets. However, the absence of soft commodities and a relatively limited selection of stocks and cryptocurrencies compared to some other brokers slightly diminishes the overall rating. Nonetheless, the range of products is reasonably sufficient for most traders.
Available Markets
Here are the main categories of trading assets available at FBS:
Broker | IC Markets AU | FBS AU | Pepperstone AU |
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Forex | 61 | 43 | 97 |
Precious Metals | 7 | 8 | 20 |
Energy Carriers | 5 | 3 | 4 |
Soft Commodities | 8 | — | 16 |
Indices | 25 | 11 | 26 |
Stocks | 2175 | 480 | 986 |
ETF | 38 | — | 108 |
Bonds | 10 | — | — |
Cryptocurrency | 21 | 5 | 30 |
The selection of trading assets at FBS enables traders of different levels of experience and interests to find suitable instruments for their trading strategies and goals, creating comfortable conditions for working in the Forex market.
Margin Requirements
Leverage may differ for different types of instruments.
Trading Instrument | Max. Leverage for Retail Traders | Max. Leverage for Pro Traders |
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Forex | 1:30 | 1:500 |
Precious Metals | 1:20 | 1:100 |
Energy Carriers | 1:10 | 1:100 |
Indices | 1:20 | 1:400 |
Stocks | 1:5 | 1:20 |
Cryptocurrency | 1:2 | 1:10 |
Trading Platforms
FBS offers its clients a variety of trading platforms to meet the needs of traders with different levels of experience and preferences. Here are the leading trading platforms available at FBS:
MetaTrader 5 (MT5): MetaTrader 5 is the successor to the MT4 platform, offering additional features such as advanced charting capabilities, more technical indicators, an economic calendar, and many others. MT5 also supports trading in stocks and futures, making it a more versatile platform than MT4. MT5 is also available on computers and mobile devices.
FBS Trader: FBS Trader is FBS's proprietary trading platform, designed to provide clients with a simple and convenient tool for Forex trading. It offers flexible chart settings, technical indicators, and risk management functions. FBS Trader is available for use on mobile devices.
WebTrader: WebTrader is a web version of the trading platform that allows traders to trade directly from the browser without downloading and installing additional software. WebTrader is suitable for those who prefer to trade from different devices or on the go.
FBS's choice of trading platforms allows traders to find the optimal solution for their trading strategy and style, ensuring maximum comfort and efficiency in the Forex market.
Analytics
FBS provides a variety of analytical tools and materials that can help traders make informed trading decisions and improve their skills:
Forex News: FBS offers up-to-date news related to the Forex market, including economic events, political decisions, and other factors influencing currency rates.
Daily Market Analysis: The FBS website publishes regular reviews and forecasts for various trading instruments, including analysis of the current market situation and trading recommendations.
Forex TV: FBS features video materials with analytical reviews, including expert opinions, market overviews, educational materials, etc. Forex TV helps traders stay informed of the latest news and market trends.
VIP Analytics: For clients with VIP status, FBS provides access to exclusive analytics, including personal consultations, overviews, and forecasts from experienced analysts.
Economic Calendar: FBS offers a convenient tool for tracking upcoming economic events and statistical data releases that can impact the market.
Forex Calculators: The FBS website offers various calculators that help traders calculate margins, swaps, pip values, and other parameters for optimal risk management and trading.
Currency Converter: FBS provides a convenient tool for quick and accurate currency conversion at current rates, which can help plan trades and make trading decisions.
FBS offers a relatively extensive and high-quality set of analytical tools and materials. This enables traders to get relevant information and develop their professional skills. While the level of analysis provided may vary depending on the specific broker and their services, FBS is a good choice for traders who value quality analytical resources and support throughout all stages of Forex trading.
Education
FBS offers its clients a diverse range of educational materials to help develop professional skills and deepen knowledge of the Forex market:
Guides for Traders: FBS provides detailed guides on Forex trading, from the basics to advanced strategies and techniques.
Tips for Traders: Numerous educational articles with advice and recommendations for trading, risk management, trading psychology, and other topics are available on the FBS website.
Webinars: FBS regularly conducts webinars on various topics, including market analysis, trading strategy development, and features of working with trading platforms. Experienced traders and analysts lead the webinars.
Video Tutorials: FBS offers educational video tutorials that cover a wide range of topics, from the basics of Forex to advanced trading strategies and analysis tools.
Seminars: FBS organizes seminars and master classes in different countries and regions, allowing traders to learn live from experienced professionals.
Glossary: The FBS website has a glossary with terms and definitions related to Forex and trading, which helps newcomers quickly understand trading concepts.
The extensive and varied educational resources make this broker attractive to traders of all experience levels. As a result, FBS earns a higher rating in the context of educational materials than many other brokers in the market.
Customer Support
FBS recognizes the importance of quality technical support for its clients and aims to provide them with a high level of service. The features of FBS's technical support include:
24/7 Availability: FBS's technical support is available around the clock, allowing clients to receive timely assistance at any time, regardless of location.
Multilingual Support: The technical support staff at FBS speak various languages, facilitating communication with clients worldwide and providing quality support in the most convenient language.
Various Communication Channels: FBS offers multiple channels for contacting technical support, including online chat, email, phone, and social media. This allows clients to choose the most convenient way to communicate with support.
Prompt Problem-Solving: FBS's technical support staff aims to address client questions and problems promptly and efficiently, providing accurate information and recommendations for resolution.
Professionalism: The technical support specialists at FBS possess the necessary knowledge and experience to assist clients with any issues related to trading on the platform, including technical difficulties, account questions, and trading conditions.
FBS's technical support provides its clients with a high level of service and strives to meet their needs during Forex trading. With its accessibility, multilingual capabilities, and professionalism, FBS's technical support earns positive feedback from traders.
How to Contact Support?
You can reach them via:
- Email: support@fbsaustralia.com
- Phone: 1300 735 125 (Australia) / +612 9190 7577 (International)
- Online chat on the website.
Conclusion
FBS Australia is a broker that prioritizes its clients' security and diversity of trading options, backed by stringent regulation and competitive trading conditions. Its commitment to education and analytical support further enhances its appeal, particularly to traders looking to expand their knowledge and trading skills.
FBS is a solid choice for traders at various levels who prioritize security, educational resources, and a wide range of trading assets.
FAQ
Is FBS AU legit?
Yes, FBS AU is a legitimate broker regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).
Which country is FBS AU from?
FBS AU is headquartered in Australia, specifically in Sydney.
Is FBS AU an ECN broker?
No, FBS AU is an STP broker.
How does FBS AU make money?
FBS AU makes money through spreads and commissions on trades. Additionally, they may earn from overnight swap fees and other service fees.
Is FBS AU good for beginners?
Yes, FBS AU is suitable for beginners. It offers a variety of educational resources, including webinars, tutorials, and a demo account to help new traders improve their skills.
Does FBS AU offer a demo account?
Yes, FBS AU offers a demo account which allows traders to practice and develop their trading strategies without risking real money.
How can I open an account with FBS AU?
To open an account with FBS AU, visit their official website, click on the 'Open Account' button, and follow the registration process which includes filling out personal information and verifying your identity.
How can I delete my FBS AU account?
To delete your FBS AU account, you need to contact their customer support team through email or live chat and request the closure of your account. Follow their instructions to complete the process.
What is the minimum deposit for FBS AU?
The minimum deposit for FBS AU starts from as low as AU$50.
What is the maximum leverage on FBS AU?
The maximum leverage offered by FBS AU is up to 1:30 for retail traders and up to 1:500 for pro traders.
How do I deposit funds in an FBS AU account?
You can deposit funds into your FBS AU account through various methods including bank transfers, credit/debit cards, and electronic payment systems like Neteller and Skrill.
How do I withdraw money from FBS AU?
To withdraw money from FBS AU, log in to your account, go to the 'Finance' section, select 'Withdraw Funds', choose your preferred withdrawal method, and follow the instructions.
Does FBS AU provide VPS?
Yes, FBS AU provides a Virtual Private Server (VPS) service to ensure stable and uninterrupted trading.
Is FBS AU suitable for scalping?
Yes, FBS AU is suitable for scalping. The broker supports scalping strategies and provides competitive spreads and fast execution.
Is FBS AU suitable for auto-trading?
Yes, FBS AU supports auto-trading through platforms like MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5, which allow the use of Expert Advisors (EAs) for automated trading.
Is FBS AU suitable for hedging?
Yes, FBS AU allows hedging, enabling traders to open multiple positions on the same instrument in different directions.