Dukascopy Review 2025
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Leverage: Up to 1:500
Deposit: From 10 USD
Spread: Low
Regulation: FINMA, MiFID II, Financial Instruments and Exchange Act
Leverage: Up to 1:500
Deposit: From 10 USD
Spread: Low
Regulation: FINMA, MiFID II, Financial Instruments and Exchange Act
Broker type: ECN, STP
Offices: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Platforms: MetaTrader 4 (MT4), MetaTrader 5 (MT5), JForex 4
Instruments: Currency Pairs, Stocks, Cryptocurrencies, Indices, Commodities
Payment Methods:
General Overview
Dukascopy Bank is a Swiss online bank headquartered in Geneva, established on November 2, 2004, by Andre and Veronika Duka. The bank is regulated by the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) as both a bank and a securities firm. Dukascopy offers internet-based and mobile trading services, focusing on foreign exchange, bullion, CFDs, and binaries, through proprietary technological solutions. The company fully owns Dukascopy Europe IBS AS, a European-licensed brokerage based in Riga, and Dukascopy Japan, a Type-1 licensed broker in Tokyo. The bank employs over 300 staff and operates offices in Geneva, Riga, and Hong Kong.
Dukascopy's trading platform, SWFX – Swiss FX Marketplace, provides online and mobile Forex, precious metals, and CFD trading facilities. The platform is connected via FIX API to over 20 major banks, offering a unique pool of ECN spot forex liquidity available for traders, banks, hedge funds, and other institutions. This setup allows Dukascopy to offer clients unrivaled order execution and price feed quality in addition to very low spreads.
Who is Dukascopy for?
Dukascopy is suitable for traders seeking a Swiss-regulated environment with advanced trading technology and a wide range of instruments. The bank's ECN model ensures transparent pricing and fast execution, appealing to both institutional and retail traders. Its proprietary platform, SWFX, offers access to a vast liquidity pool, which is beneficial for those who require deep liquidity and tight spreads. Additionally, Dukascopy's global presence, with offices in Switzerland, Latvia, and Japan, provides a broad reach for international clients.
Pros
- Low Minimum Deposit
- Multiple Account Types (Standard, Pro, ECN)
- Advanced Trading Platforms (MT4, MT5)
Cons
- Not Available in Some Countries (US, Canada)
- Limited Regulatory Oversight
- No Bonus Promotions Due to Regulatory Restrictions
- Organised Trading Facility (OTF) Recognition, Switzerland
Trust and Safety
Regulations: FINMA, MiFID II, Financial Instruments and Exchange Act
When selecting a forex broker, trust and safety are paramount, and Dukascopy excels in both domains. With a solid regulatory framework and a commitment to transparency, Dukascopy provides traders with a secure environment for trading. Here, we delve into Dukascopy’s trust and safety features, which contribute to its reputation as a reliable broker.
Is Dukascopy Regulated?
Dukascopy Bank is regulated by multiple authorities around the world to ensure a safe and transparent trading environment. The bank follows strict rules in Switzerland, Europe, and Japan, which helps protect clients and maintain trust in its services.
Regulators:
- Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) – Bank and securities firm license in Switzerland
- MiFID II (European Union) – Dukascopy Europe IBS AS regulated under EU rules
- Financial Instruments and Exchange Act (Japan) – Dukascopy Japan operates as a Type-1 financial instruments business
- Organised Trading Facility (OTF) Recognition, Switzerland – Allows operation of a multilateral trading platform
Is Dukascopy Safe?
Dukascopy employs various measures to safeguard clients' funds and personal data, ensuring a high level of protection for its users.
- Dukascopy Segregation of Client Funds: Client funds are stored in segregated accounts with top-tier banks, providing additional security in case of broker insolvency.
- Dukascopy Negative Balance Protection: Retail traders benefit from negative balance protection, ensuring they cannot lose more than their initial investment.
- Dukascopy Investor Compensation Scheme: Clients in the EU may benefit from compensation schemes, ensuring financial protection in the unlikely event of insolvency.
Dukascopy places a strong emphasis on safeguarding client funds and provides additional security measures to protect against market volatility.
Dukascopy Cybersecurity Measures
Dukascopy utilizes advanced security protocols, including SSL encryption, to protect client data and transaction integrity.
- Dukascopy Data Protection: The broker employs 256-bit SSL encryption technology to ensure secure data transmission.
- Dukascopy Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): An additional layer of security is offered through 2FA, ensuring that only authorized users can access their accounts.
Dukascopy prioritizes cybersecurity, ensuring that sensitive personal and financial information is well protected.
Trading Platforms
MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | MetaTrader 5 (MT5) | JForex 4
Visit PlatformsWhen I looked at Dukascopy’s trading platforms, JForex 4 stood out as their proprietary solution. It is designed for advanced traders who want full control and customization. I noticed it supports manual, automated, and chart-based trading. It gives access to over 1,500 instruments across eight asset classes, including forex and CFDs. From what I could see, it works on Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android. It also includes 270+ indicators, multiple chart types, market depth control, an economic calendar, and cloud-based workspace syncing. This makes it flexible for different trading styles
JForex 4
JForex 4 is Dukascopy's proprietary trading platform, designed for advanced traders seeking comprehensive tools and customization. It supports manual, automated, and chart-based trading, providing access to over 1,500 instruments across eight asset classes, including forex and CFDs. The platform is compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android, and offers features such as:
- Over 270 indicators and chart studies
- Multiple chart types and custom periods
- Market depth and slippage control
- Economic calendar and news integration
- Cloud-based workspace synchronization
MetaTrader 4 (MT4)
MetaTrader 4 is a widely-used trading platform known for its user-friendly interface and advanced features. Dukascopy provides MT4 with access to 108 instruments, including popular currency pairs. The platform is available for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, and offers:
- Multiple chart types and timeframes
- Automated trading with Expert Advisors (EAs)
- Comprehensive backtesting capabilities
- Customizable interface and indicators
MetaTrader 5 (MT5)
MetaTrader 5 is the successor to MT4, offering additional features and improved performance. Dukascopy provides MT5 with access to 108 instruments, similar to MT4. The platform is compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, and includes:
- More timeframes and order types
- Advanced charting and analysis tools
- Improved backtesting and strategy testing
- Market depth and economic calendar
inary Options Platforms
Dukascopy offers binary options trading through dedicated platforms:
- Desktop Platform: A full-featured desktop solution optimized for intuitive use, supporting various strike prices and expiry dates.
- Mobile Platform: A mobile-optimized platform for trading binary options, providing convenient charts, detailed logs, and reports.
Tradable Instruments
Instruments: Currency Pairs, Stocks, Cryptocurrencies, Indices, Commodities
DefcoFX offers a wide range of tradable instruments designed to meet the diverse needs of its traders. This extensive selection enables clients to explore various financial markets and diversify their investment portfolios effectively. Traders can access a variety of asset classes, including forex pairs, indices, commodities, stocks, and cryptocurrencies, allowing them to capitalize on different market opportunities.
DefcoFX Forex
DefcoFX provides access to an extensive selection of forex pairs, encompassing major, minor, and exotic currencies. This broad array of options ensures that traders can engage with different currency markets according to their strategies and risk preferences. The competitive spreads offered by DefcoFX enhance the trading experience, making it ideal for both new and experienced forex traders.
DefcoFX Indices
DefcoFX allows traders to participate in a variety of global indices, including well-known ones like the S&P 500 and NASDAQ. These indices can be traded as Contracts for Difference (CFDs), enabling traders to speculate on price movements without owning the underlying assets. This flexibility allows for effective trading strategies that capitalize on market trends in various regions.
DefcoFX Commodities
DefcoFX features a diverse selection of commodities for trading, including precious metals like gold and silver, as well as energy products such as crude oil and natural gas. Trading commodities as CFDs enables traders to profit from price fluctuations without the need to hold physical assets. This approach is advantageous for those looking to diversify their portfolios and manage risk in volatile markets.
DefcoFX Stocks
DefcoFX offers a comprehensive range of stock CFDs from major global exchanges, allowing traders to speculate on the price movements of leading companies without needing to own the shares outright. This method provides the opportunity to benefit from both rising and falling stock prices, making it an appealing choice for traders looking to expand their investment strategies.
DefcoFX Cryptocurrencies
DefcoFX provides access to a variety of cryptocurrency CFDs, including popular options such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin. This offering allows traders to engage with the dynamic and rapidly evolving cryptocurrency markets by speculating on price movements through CFDs. The flexibility of trading cryptocurrencies as CFDs enables clients to profit from market fluctuations while effectively managing their risk exposure.
Account Types
Dukascopy offers various account types designed to cater to different trading needs, with a focus on providing flexibility and risk management tools. For more details on available account types, visit the Dukascopy Account Types page.
Retail Account
Dukascopy provides a standard Retail Account that is ideal for both beginner and experienced traders. The Retail Account is designed with ease of use and transparency in mind, offering traders access to over 60 currency pairs and a wide range of CFDs.
- Negative Balance Protection: This ensures that retail traders cannot lose more than their account balance, providing a safety net in case of volatile market movements.
- Competitive Spreads: Dukascopy offers competitive spreads across all asset classes. For example, spreads on major forex pairs like EUR/USD start from as low as 0.2 pips.
- Free Demo Account: Traders can access a free demo account to practice their trading strategies without risking real money.
- Commission-Based Trading: There are commissions on trades, but the pricing structure remains transparent.
Dukascopy offers a standard account with competitive spreads and no hidden fees, making it an excellent choice for retail traders seeking simplicity and transparency.
Deposits and Withdrawals
Deposits and Withdrawals
Dukascopy offers a variety of deposit and withdrawal methods, allowing traders to manage their funds conveniently. With its user-friendly platform and clear fee structure, Dukascopy ensures that traders can easily fund their accounts and withdraw profits. For a detailed overview of the withdrawal process, visit the Dukascopy Withdrawals page.
Dukascopy Deposit Options and Fees
Dukascopy supports multiple deposit methods, making it easy for traders to fund their accounts. The broker does not charge any fees for deposits, allowing for cost-effective account funding.
- Bank Transfers: Traders can deposit funds via bank transfer, which may take 1-3 business days to process.
- Credit/Debit Cards: Visa and MasterCard are accepted for instant deposits.
- E-Wallets: Popular e-wallets like Skrill and Neteller are also available, offering quick and secure transactions.
Dukascopy’s deposit options ensure that traders can choose the most suitable method for their needs.
Dukascopy Withdrawals Options and Fees
Dukascopy provides a range of withdrawal methods that mirror the deposit options, ensuring that traders can access their funds easily. Withdrawals are generally processed quickly, typically within 1-3 business days.
- Bank Transfers: Withdrawals via bank transfer may take up to 5 business days to complete.
- Credit/Debit Cards: Withdrawals via cards usually take 3-7 business days.
- E-Wallets: E-wallet withdrawals are typically processed within 1-3 business days.
Dukascopy does not charge withdrawal fees, which is a significant advantage for traders looking to maximize their profits.
Visa
Mastercard
Bitcoin
Ethereum
Fees and Commissions
Dukascopy is known for its competitive pricing structure, offering traders a clear understanding of trading fees. This section provides a comprehensive breakdown of Dukascopy's trading fees, including spreads and non-trading fees, ensuring traders can make informed decisions. For a more detailed look at the fee structure, visit the Dukascopy Fees page.
Dukascopy Trading Fees
Dukascopy operates on a commission-based model with competitive spreads. Traders are charged a small commission per trade, making it essential to understand the overall cost structure before trading.
- Dukascopy Commission Structure: Dukascopy’s commission rates vary based on the account type and asset class. For example, the standard commission for forex trading can start from as low as $0.5 per $100,000 traded.
- Dukascopy Transparent Spreads: The broker offers tight spreads across various instruments, which are transparent and clearly displayed on the platform.
This clear fee structure allows traders to predict their costs effectively without worrying about hidden charges.
Dukascopy Spreads
Spreads are an integral part of Dukascopy's trading fees. The broker provides competitive spreads on various asset classes, ensuring cost-effective trading opportunities.
- Dukascopy Forex Spreads: Dukascopy offers low spreads on major currency pairs, such as EUR/USD, GBP/USD, and USD/JPY. For instance, the average spread for EUR/USD is around 0.2 pips, making it an attractive choice for forex traders.
- Dukascopy Commodities and Indices Spreads: Competitive spreads are also available for commodities like gold and oil, as well as various indices, enhancing the platform's appeal.
Traders can benefit from Dukascopy's transparent and competitive spreads, maximizing potential profitability.
Dukascopy Non-Trading Fees
While Dukascopy excels in offering low trading costs, it’s important to be aware of specific non-trading fees that may apply.
- Dukascopy Inactivity Fee: Dukascopy charges an inactivity fee of $10 per month if no trading activity occurs for six months. This fee applies only to dormant accounts.
- Dukascopy Currency Conversion Fee: A currency conversion fee may apply when trading instruments in a different currency than the trader's account currency. This fee typically ranges from 0.5% to 2% of the trade value.
Dukascopy maintains a transparent fee structure, ensuring that traders are well-informed about potential charges.
Bonuses and Promotions
Dukascopy offers a variety of bonuses and promotions to enhance the trading experience for its clients. While the broker operates under strict regulatory oversight, limiting some traditional promotions, they still provide a range of offers that reward loyal traders and those who participate in contests and competitions. Below are the key bonuses and promotions currently available:
1. Equity Bonus (10%)
Dukascopy offers a 10% equity bonus to clients who make a new deposit into their trading account. This bonus increases the account's equity, allowing traders to trade larger volumes by improving their margin.
Conditions: The bonus cannot be withdrawn immediately and must be actively traded to meet specific turnover requirements before it becomes eligible for withdrawal.
2. Discount Program (Volume-Based Rebates)
Traders who generate high trading volumes with Dukascopy can benefit from the volume-based discount program. This rebate system rewards clients with lower trading costs (spreads or commissions) as they increase their trading activity.
Conditions: The rebate percentage varies based on the total volume traded during a specific period, typically calculated monthly.
3. Contests and Competitions
Dukascopy regularly hosts contests where traders can compete to win cash prizes or trading credits. These contests help traders showcase their skills and earn additional rewards.
- Live Trading Contests: Traders participate in live trading competitions, and top performers receive cash prizes.
- Trader of the Month: Dukascopy rewards the best trader of each month with a cash prize.
Summary of Bonuses and Promotions
Education
DefcoFX is dedicated to providing a comprehensive range of educational resources designed to enhance the trading knowledge and skills of its clients. The broker offers a wide selection of articles, video tutorials, webinars, and market insights covering various trading topics such as technical analysis, risk management, and market strategies. These materials cater to traders at all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals, making DefcoFX a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their trading proficiency. While the existing educational offerings are informative and widely accessible, there is potential for DefcoFX to further enhance its educational hub. Introducing more interactive resources such as quizzes, in-depth courses, and practical trading simulations could provide a more engaging and thorough learning experience for users. This would not only help traders assess their knowledge but also ensure they can effectively apply what they've learned in their trading activities.
Allowed Countries
Dukascopy, a well-known Swiss forex broker, allows clients from a variety of countries to open trading accounts. However, due to regulatory restrictions, it cannot offer services to residents of certain countries, including the USA, Belgium, Canada, and others. The allowed countries include most of Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Clients from these regions can access Dukascopy's wide range of trading services, including forex, CFDs, and binary options, provided they comply with local regulatory requirements and Dukascopy’s terms and conditions.
Excluded Countries
United States
Canada
North Korea
Syrian Arab Republic
Customer Support
Dukascopy provides comprehensive customer support designed to assist traders with any issues they may encounter while using the platform. The support system is robust and easily accessible. For more information, check out the Dukascopy Customer Support page.
Support Features
- 24/7 Customer Support: Dukascopy offers round-the-clock support, ensuring that traders can receive assistance at any time.
- Multiple Contact Methods: Traders can contact customer support through live chat, email, and an extensive help center on the website.
- Multilingual Support: Support is available in multiple languages, catering to a diverse global clientele.
Dukascopy’s commitment to providing efficient and reliable customer support enhances the trading experience for its clients.
Broker Name: Dukascopy
Broker Type: ECN, STP
Country: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Operating since year: 2015
Regulations: FINMA, MiFID II, Financial Instruments and Exchange Act
Phone: 234 706 777 7762
Email: [email protected]
Address: First Floor, First St. Vincent Bank Ltd Building, James Street, Kingstown, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
Broker status: Active
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