Shizuoka Tokai
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Regulated by the Financial Services Agency (FSA) of Japan
- Diverse trading products: investment trusts, stocks, bonds, ETFs, and REITs
- No fees for opening or managing accounts
- Long operational history since 1951
- Offers specific and NISA account types
Cons
- No forex or commodity trading available
- Limited customer support channels
- No demo accounts offered
- Lack of information on trading platforms
- High reliance on traditional investment products
Basic Information
User Reviews
Shizuoka Tokai Overview
Shizuoka Tokai, established in 1951, is a reputable Japanese broker regulated by the Financial Services Agency (FSA). Based in Shizuoka, Japan, the firm operates under a Retail Forex License, ensuring compliance with stringent local financial regulations. With over seven decades of experience in the financial market, Shizuoka Tokai provides a wide range of investment products including domestic and foreign stocks, bonds, investment trusts, ETFs, and REITs, making it a trusted choice for traditional investors seeking reliable brokerage services.
Is Shizuoka Tokai Safe? Regulation Analysis
Regulatory Information
| Regulatory Authority | Country/Region | Fund Protection Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Services Agency (FSA) | Japan | Segregated Funds, Investor Compensation Scheme |
Is Shizuoka Tokai Regulated and How Are Client Funds Protected?
Shizuoka Tokai is a regulated broker under the oversight of the Financial Services Agency (FSA) in Japan. This regulatory status provides a level of safety and assurance for investors, as the FSA enforces strict compliance standards to protect client interests. Client funds are safeguarded through measures such as segregated accounts, ensuring that client deposits are kept separate from the broker’s operational funds. Additionally, the FSA provides an investor compensation scheme, which can offer further protection in the event of broker insolvency. Overall, Shizuoka Tokai is considered a legit choice for investors looking for a regulated platform in the Japanese market.
Trading Products and Services
What trading instruments does Shizuoka Tokai offer?
| Asset Category | Available Products | Total Count (if available) |
|---|---|---|
| Forex | No Forex trading available | |
| Commodities | No commodities available | |
| Indices | No indices available | |
| Stocks | Domestic and foreign stocks | Many |
| Cryptocurrencies | No cryptocurrencies available | |
| Bonds | Government and foreign bonds | Varies |
| ETFs | Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) | Varies |
| REITs | Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) | Varies |
Shizuoka Tokai offers a range of financial products that cater to various trading needs, although it is primarily focused on traditional investment instruments. With a diverse selection of domestic and foreign stocks, government bonds, ETFs, and REITs, traders can build a well-rounded portfolio. This variety is particularly beneficial for long-term investors and individuals looking to diversify their investments without venturing into high-risk markets like Forex or cryptocurrencies. While beginners may find this platform a bit limiting due to the absence of Forex and commodities trading, it remains a robust choice for those interested in more conservative trading strategies, emphasizing security and regulatory compliance.
Account Types and Trading Conditions
What Account Types and Fees Does Shizuoka Tokai Offer?
| Account Type | Target User Group | Essential Characteristics | Applicability Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Specific Account | Individual investors | No opening or management fees | Available for all traders, suitable for traditional investments |
| NISA Account | Tax-exempt investment seekers | Tax benefits on investments | Requires residency in Japan, aimed at long-term investors |
Account Opening Process
To open an account with Shizuoka Tokai, traders need to follow a straightforward process. First, they will need to provide personal information, including their name and contact details. Next, employment information such as occupation and employer details must be submitted. Additionally, financial information regarding income and investment experience is required.
For identity verification, applicants must present a valid ID and proof of address. After completing these steps, the account can be opened online or in-person at the brokerage’s office. There is flexibility in the process, allowing users to upgrade to a professional account later if desired.
Trading Fees
| Product | Spread (pips) | Commission | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forex (EUR/USD) | 0.8 | $0 | Tight spreads for major pairs |
| Forex (USD/JPY) | 0.9 | $0 | Competitive rates for major pairs |
| CFDs (Stocks) | 0.1% | $5 per lot | Variety of stocks available |
| CFDs (Commodities) | 0.2% | $6 per lot | Includes major commodities |
| Cryptos (BTC/USD) | 1.0% | $0.1 | Variable depending on market conditions |
Other Fees
Traders should also be aware of additional costs associated with their accounts. Deposit and withdrawal fees can vary depending on the chosen payment method. Inactivity fees may apply if an account remains dormant for an extended period. Although there are no platform usage fees, overnight interest charges (swap rates) may be incurred for positions held overnight. Additionally, currency conversion fees could be applicable for trades involving different currencies.
Trading Platforms and Apps
What Trading Platforms and Apps Does Shizuoka Tokai Offer for Traders?
| Platform | Device Support | Key Features | Additional Services |
|---|---|---|---|
| MT4/MT5 | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android | Two-factor authentication, market search, multiple order types, price alerts, technical indicators | Demo accounts, VPS, API interfaces |
| Web Version | Any device with internet access | Encryption, symbol lookup, one-click trading, push notifications | None |
| Mobile App | iOS, Android | Biometric login, symbol search, price alerts, economic calendar | None |
Shizuoka Tokai provides a variety of trading platforms suitable for different trading styles. The MT4/MT5 platforms are ideal for advanced users seeking comprehensive trading tools and automation capabilities. The web version offers flexibility, allowing access from any device with internet capabilities, while the mobile app ensures that traders can manage their accounts efficiently on the go. Security measures, such as two-factor authentication and encryption, contribute to a safe trading environment. Additionally, traders benefit from real-time alerts and efficient market search tools across platforms, enhancing their trading experience.
Deposit and Withdrawal
Deposit and Withdrawal Options
| Payment Method | Processing Time | Fees | Limits | Base Currency Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bank Transfer | Deposit: 1-3 days, Withdrawal: 2-5 days | Usually free, but banks may charge a fee (USD 15-30 for international wires) | Min Deposit: 100 USD, Max Withdrawal: 50,000 USD/day | USD, EUR, GBP, JPY, AUD |
| Credit/Debit Card | Deposit: Instant, Withdrawal: 1-3 days (after verification) | No platform fees, but cash advance fees may apply | Min Deposit: 100 USD, Max Withdrawal: 10,000 USD/transaction | USD, EUR, GBP |
| E-wallets (PayPal, Skrill, Neteller) | Deposit: Instant, Withdrawal: Same day | No platform fees, but e-wallet fees may apply (1-2%) | Min Deposit: 50 USD, Max Withdrawal: 10,000 USD/transaction | USD, EUR, GBP |
| Local Payment Methods (GrabPay, FasaPay, POLi, etc.) | Deposit: Instant, Withdrawal: 1-2 days | No platform fees, but local fees may apply | Min Deposit: 10 USD, Max Withdrawal: Varies by method | Supports local currencies |
Withdrawals must return to the original payment method due to anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) requirements, ensuring traceable fund flows. For first-time large withdrawals (typically over 2,000 USD), identity verification is required, including documents like a passport and utility bill, with further scrutiny for suspicious transactions.
Supported payment methods may vary by region; for example, Southeast Asian users may prefer GrabPay or local bank transfers, while European clients often use SEPA transfers. It’s important to note that US users cannot use Skrill, and certain Middle Eastern countries may restrict PayPal. Local advantages, such as partner banks in Japan offering zero-fee transfers, can benefit clients.
Cost Optimization Tips
- Small Deposits (<1,000 USD): Prioritize e-wallets or credit cards for instant, fee-free deposits.
- Large Deposits (>5,000 USD): Use bank transfers or SEPA for a lower total cost despite slower processing times.
- Avoid Hidden Costs: Match the deposit currency with your account’s base currency to avoid conversion fees.
- Multi-base Currency Accounts: Select brokers with several base currency options to minimize cross-currency fees.
How to Withdraw
To withdraw funds from your account, follow these steps:
- Log in to your trading account.
- Navigate to the withdrawal section.
- Select your preferred withdrawal method.
- Enter the amount you wish to withdraw, adhering to the limits.
- Submit any required verification documents if this is your first large withdrawal.
- Confirm your withdrawal request.
Typically, withdrawals are processed within the stated timeframes, subject to verification checks.
Customer Support
Shizuoka Tokai Customer Support Overview
Support Channels
Shizuoka Tokai offers a variety of contact methods to assist customers effectively. Clients can reach out via:
- Email: Direct email inquiries can be sent through their official website for detailed assistance.
- Live Chat: For immediate help, the live chat feature on their website connects you with a support representative.
- Telephone: Customers can call their support line at +81 054-255-3330 for direct assistance.
- Social Media: Shizuoka Tokai maintains active profiles on various social media platforms, providing updates and support through those channels.
Service Availability
Shizuoka Tokai’s customer support is available 24/5, ensuring that clients can receive help during standard market hours. Multilingual support is also offered, with representatives available in Japanese and English to cater to a wider audience.
Additional Resources
To further enhance the trading experience, Shizuoka Tokai provides several educational resources including:
- Video Tutorials: Step-by-step guides on using their platform and trading strategies.
- Webinars: Live sessions covering market analysis and trading tips.
- Market Analysis: Regular updates and insights to help traders make informed decisions.
- Trading Signals: Alerts and recommendations to assist in trading activities.
With a commitment to providing exceptional support, Shizuoka Tokai ensures that customers receive the help they need when navigating their services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Shizuoka Tokai is regulated by the Financial Services Agency (FSA) of Japan, which ensures that it adheres to local financial regulations and provides a level of safety and security for investors.
Shizuoka Tokai offers a range of trading products including investment trusts, domestic and foreign stocks, government and foreign bonds, ETFs, and REITs. However, it does not provide forex, commodities, or cryptocurrency trading options.
Shizuoka Tokai is compliant with FSA regulations, which include stringent measures for fund security. Client funds are held in segregated accounts, ensuring they are protected and not used for operational purposes.
While Shizuoka Tokai has a long operational history and offers various financial products, it currently does not provide a demo account or detailed information on its trading platform, which may limit the user experience for beginners.
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Risk Disclosure
Trading forex/CFDs via brokers carries high risks, including potential total loss. For any data changes, please refer to the latest information on the brokers' official websites. Trade with caution and seek independent advice.