Forex Hub: For complete regulation updates, local bank/GCash guidelines, and broker reviews, see our master guide: Forex Trading Philippines: Regulation & Broker Reviews.
FXTM (ForexTime) is a highly respected global broker. They are well-known in the Philippines due to their low-barrier Micro accounts and their local educational events in Manila. In this review, we examine their spreads, account structures, and regulatory standing.
We will analyze their account types, deposit methods, trading fees, and see if FXTM is the right choice for your trading needs.
Quick Verdict: Is FXTM Safe and Legal in the Philippines?
- Our Rating: 4.5 / 5
- Minimum Deposit: $10
- GCash Supported: Yes (via local payment options)
- Legal Status: Offshore (Accessible, CySEC/ASIC regulated globally, but not licensed by local SEC)
FXTM is legal for Filipinos to use. Like all major international brokers, it holds no license from the SEC Philippines or BSP. It is regulated by top-tier global bodies (like ASIC in Australia or the FCA in the UK) which ensures a high standard of security and transparency, but retail accounts from the Philippines fall under their offshore entities where local client protections do not apply.
Pros and Cons for Filipino Traders
Pros
- Advantage account offers ultra-tight raw spreads from 0 pips with very low commissions.
- Low $10 minimum deposit on Micro accounts, making it highly accessible.
- Active local educational support with webinars and seminars for Filipinos.
Cons
- Micro and Standard accounts have relatively wide spreads.
- Advantage raw account requires a high initial deposit of $500.
- Accounts for Asian clients are managed under offshore FSC Mauritius.
Account Types & Platform Specifications
FXTM offers several trading account structures:
Advantage Account
ECN account with raw spreads, low commissions, and high leverage up to 1:2000.
Micro Account
Low-barrier account with floating spreads and instant execution.
Advantage Plus Account
Designed for standard traders who want zero commission and high leverage.
Local Payment Methods: GCash, Cards & Crypto
FXTM supports convenient local deposit channels:
- GCash & Local Banks: Online bank transfer options (BDO, BPI, Metrobank).
- Credit Cards: Supports Visa and Mastercard deposits.
- Crypto & E-wallets: Accept Skrill, Neteller, and USDT.
Note: KYC verification is mandatory before withdrawals are permitted. Ensure your uploaded ID and address details match your profile.
Regulatory Status & SEC Warnings
ForexTime Ltd is regulated by CySEC in Cyprus and the FCA in the UK. ForexTime Republic of Mauritius is regulated by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) of Mauritius, which serves accounts from the Philippines. It holds no local license from the SEC Philippines.
In the Philippines, retail forex trading on offshore platforms operates in a regulatory grey area. There are no restrictions preventing retail individuals from depositing and trading, but any profits generated must be declared as foreign-sourced income for tax filings with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).
Risk Warning & Jason's Advice
CFD trading involves high risk, especially when utilizing leverage.
My ex-prop trader advice for FXTM:
- Advantage Account is Best: If you can afford the $500 deposit, the Advantage account offers ECN-grade spreads that are vastly superior to their Standard and Micro accounts.
- Utilize Local Seminars: FXTM frequently runs educational trading seminars in Metro Manila. These are free and provide good networking opportunities for local traders.
- Watch out for high leverage: Leverage up to 1:2000 can wipe out your account instantly. Keep your risk per trade below 2% and set leverage to a safe 1:100.
FAQs
Is FXTM legal in the Philippines?
Yes, it is legal to register and trade. However, it operates offshore under Mauritius regulation and is not regulated by the SEC Philippines.
What is the minimum deposit for FXTM?
The minimum deposit is $10 for the Micro account and $500 for the Advantage account.
Does FXTM support GCash?
Yes, FXTM supports deposits and withdrawals via GCash through integrated payment networks.
Our FXTM Rating Breakdown
Overall Rating
| Min. Deposit | $10 |
| Pricing Model | Spreads from 0.0 pips |
| Demo Account | ✓ Free |
| Mobile App | ✓ iOS & Android |
| Withdrawal | 1-2 business days |
| Registered In | Cyprus |
| Regions | Philippines, Asia +more |
- Advantage account offers raw spreads from 0.0 pips with low commissions
- Low $10 minimum deposit on Micro accounts
