Sharenet Company

Sharenet Company: A Comprehensive Overview

1. Company Overview

Founding Date and Background

Sharenet was founded in 1988 to address the need for real-time Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) share prices in South Africa. The company emerged as a pioneer in providing online trading services, significantly enhancing the accessibility of financial information for both individual and institutional investors.

Parent Company/Ownership Structure

Sharenet operates as an independent entity, primarily focused on delivering financial services and trading solutions. While it has established partnerships with various financial institutions, it does not operate under a larger parent company.

Headquarters Location

The company is headquartered in Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa, strategically positioned to serve the local financial market while also catering to international clients.

Global Business Scope

Sharenet has expanded its services beyond South Africa, allowing clients to trade various international stocks and financial instruments. This global reach is facilitated through its robust online trading platform, which provides access to a wide array of markets and instruments.

Main Regulatory Bodies

Sharenet is regulated by several key authorities in South Africa, including the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE). These regulatory bodies ensure that Sharenet adheres to the highest standards of financial practice and client protection.

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2. Company History and Development

Key Milestones

• 1988: Sharenet is established, becoming one of the first providers of real-time JSE prices.
• 1999: The company launches its online trading platform, marking a significant technological advancement in the South African financial market.
• 2000s: Continued investment in technology infrastructure to enhance service delivery and client experience.

Business Expansion Journey

Over the years, Sharenet has broadened its service offerings to include international trading options, catering to a diverse client base. The company has continuously evolved its platform to integrate advanced trading tools and analytics, enhancing user experience and engagement.

Customer Base Growth

Sharenet has built a loyal customer base of over 150,000 clients, consisting of individual traders, institutional investors, and asset managers. This growth is attributed to its commitment to providing reliable and comprehensive financial information and trading services.

Platform Development History

The Sharenet trading platform has undergone significant enhancements since its inception. Key features include real-time market data, advanced charting tools, and mobile trading applications, allowing clients to trade efficiently from anywhere.

Important Awards or Recognitions Received

Sharenet has received several accolades for its services, including recognition as a leading financial service provider in South Africa. The company is often lauded for its innovative trading solutions and commitment to customer service.

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3. Trading Services Offered

Forex Trading Options

Sharenet provides clients with access to a variety of forex trading options, offering numerous currency pairs for trading. This includes major pairs such as USD/ZAR, EUR/ZAR, and GBP/ZAR, among others, catering to both novice and experienced traders.

Stock Trading Options

Clients can trade a wide range of stocks listed on the JSE and international exchanges. Sharenets platform allows for seamless trading of equities, with comprehensive market data and insights to inform trading decisions.

CFD Trading Products

Sharenet offers Contracts for Difference (CFDs) on various assets, including stocks, indices, and commodities. This allows traders to speculate on price movements without owning the underlying assets, providing flexibility and potential for profit.

Other Financial Instruments

In addition to forex and stock trading, Sharenet provides access to other financial instruments such as:

• Cryptocurrencies: Limited offerings are available for trading in popular cryptocurrencies.
• Commodities: Clients can trade commodities like gold, silver, and oil, allowing for diversification in their investment portfolios.

Special Services or Unique Advantages

Sharenet differentiates itself with its comprehensive analytics tools, one-on-one trading consultations, and a user-friendly mobile app. Additionally, its competitive brokerage rates, starting from 0.3%, make it an attractive option for cost-conscious traders.

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4. Regulatory and Legal Background

Detailed Regulatory Information

Sharenet is regulated by:

• Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA): Oversees financial services and market conduct.
• Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE): Ensures compliance with trading regulations and market integrity.
• Other relevant bodies: Depending on the services offered, Sharenet may also comply with regulations from international trading authorities.

Legal Entity Structure by Region

Sharenet operates primarily within South Africa but has established a legal framework to facilitate international trading. This includes compliance with local and international regulations to protect client interests.

Client Fund Protection Measures

Sharenet employs stringent measures to protect client funds, including segregating client accounts from company funds and utilizing reputable banking institutions for fund management. This ensures that client assets are safeguarded against potential risks.

Countries/Regions Served

While Sharenets primary market is South Africa, its trading platform supports clients from various countries, allowing for international trading in multiple financial instruments.

Compliance History

Sharenet has maintained a strong compliance history, regularly undergoing audits and assessments to ensure adherence to regulatory standards. This commitment to compliance enhances client trust and confidence in the platform.

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5. Competitive Landscape

3-5 Main Competitors

Sharenet competes with several key players in the South African financial services market, including:

• EasyEquities: Known for its user-friendly platform and low-cost trading options.
• IG Markets: Offers a wide range of trading products, including forex and CFDs.
• Saxo Bank: Provides an extensive range of financial instruments and advanced trading tools.

Positioning in the Industry

Sharenet positions itself as a trusted provider of trading solutions, emphasizing its long-standing reputation and commitment to client service. Its focus on technology and analytics distinguishes it from competitors, appealing to both novice and experienced traders.

Market Differentiation Factors

Sharenets unique advantages include:

• Comprehensive Analytics: The only research house offering integrated JSE market breadth information.
• Mobile Trading Capabilities: A robust mobile app that allows for trading on the go.
• Personalized Services: One-on-one consultations and tailored trading strategies for clients.

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In conclusion, Sharenet has established itself as a leading financial services provider in South Africa, offering a wide range of trading options and innovative tools to enhance the trading experience. With a commitment to compliance, customer service, and technological advancement, Sharenet continues to adapt to the evolving financial landscape, positioning itself for future growth.

For more information on Sharenets services, visit Sharenet.