ACH International Limited, commonly referred to as ACH, is a forex broker established in 2017. The company is headquartered in New Zealand, and it operates primarily in the retail forex market, catering to individual traders seeking to engage in currency trading. ACH is a private company, and while it has made strides in the forex industry, it has faced challenges regarding regulatory compliance, particularly with its license status.
Since its inception, ACH has focused on providing a user-friendly trading environment through its offerings. The broker utilizes the MetaTrader 4 (MT4) platform, which is known for its versatility and robustness, allowing traders to customize their trading experience. Over the years, ACH has expanded its services to include various trading instruments, aiming to attract a diverse clientele interested in forex and other financial products.
A significant milestone in ACH's development was its initial licensing under the Financial Service Providers Register (FSPR) in New Zealand. However, the broker's license has faced scrutiny, leading to discussions about its regulatory status. This has prompted investors to conduct thorough due diligence before engaging with the broker.
Overall, ACH operates on a business model that emphasizes retail forex trading, providing access to various currency pairs and trading tools to enhance the trading experience for its clients.
ACH is primarily regulated under the Financial Service Providers Register (FSPR) in New Zealand. The license number for ACH International Limited is 396506. However, it is crucial to note that the broker's regulatory license has been revoked, raising concerns about its compliance and operational legitimacy.
The FSPR is responsible for overseeing financial service providers in New Zealand, ensuring they adhere to regulatory standards. Despite its initial licensing, the revocation of ACH's license necessitates caution among potential investors. Regulatory compliance is essential for protecting client funds and ensuring fair trading practices.
ACH has implemented customer funds segregation policies, which are crucial for safeguarding client deposits. This means that client funds are kept separate from the broker's operational funds, providing an additional layer of protection in case of financial difficulties.
In terms of compliance measures, ACH adheres to Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations. These measures are designed to prevent fraud and ensure that the broker conducts business with legitimate clients. KYC procedures require clients to provide identification and verification documents, while AML policies involve monitoring transactions for suspicious activity.
ACH offers a diverse range of trading products, primarily focusing on forex trading. The broker provides access to over 40 currency pairs, including major, minor, and exotic pairs. This variety allows traders to engage in different market strategies and capitalize on global currency movements.
In addition to forex, ACH also offers Contracts for Difference (CFDs) on various asset classes, including indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. This broad product offering enables traders to diversify their portfolios and explore different trading opportunities.
The update frequency for trading products at ACH is relatively consistent, with the broker regularly assessing market demand and introducing new instruments as necessary. This adaptability is crucial in the fast-paced trading environment, where opportunities can arise rapidly.
For retail clients, ACH provides comprehensive trading services, including educational resources and market analysis tools. These services are designed to support traders in making informed decisions and enhancing their trading skills. While the broker primarily focuses on retail clients, it also offers institutional services, catering to larger clients and corporate accounts.
ACH utilizes the MetaTrader 4 (MT4) platform, which is widely recognized for its advanced trading capabilities. The platform supports desktop, web, and mobile applications, allowing traders to access their accounts and execute trades from various devices. The MT4 platform is known for its user-friendly interface, customizable features, and extensive charting tools, making it suitable for both novice and experienced traders.
While ACH does not have its own proprietary trading platform, the MT4 platform offers a robust trading environment with features such as automated trading through Expert Advisors (EAs), comprehensive market analysis tools, and a wide range of technical indicators. The platform supports multiple languages, enhancing accessibility for a global clientele.
The broker's server infrastructure is located in various regions, including Hong Kong, China, and the United States, ensuring low latency and reliable trading conditions. However, it is worth noting that the MT4 platform lacks advanced security features such as two-step authentication, which could be a concern for traders prioritizing security.
ACH also provides API access for automated trading, allowing traders to implement algorithmic strategies and enhance their trading efficiency. This feature is particularly beneficial for professional traders seeking to leverage technology in their trading activities.
ACH offers several account types to cater to different trading needs. The standard account requires a minimum deposit of $100, providing access to competitive spreads and a variety of trading instruments. The broker typically offers spreads starting from 1.0 pips, with commissions varying based on the account type and trading volume.
For advanced traders, ACH may provide premium account options, including VIP accounts, which offer enhanced trading conditions, lower spreads, and additional benefits. The broker also supports Islamic accounts, ensuring compliance with Sharia law for traders who require such options.
ACH's trading conditions include leverage ratios that can reach up to 1:400, allowing traders to amplify their positions. The minimum trade size is typically set at 0.01 lots, providing flexibility for traders with varying capital levels.
The broker also offers a demo account for prospective clients, enabling them to practice trading strategies without risking real capital. This feature is essential for new traders seeking to familiarize themselves with the trading environment before committing funds.
ACH supports several funding methods for deposits and withdrawals, including bank transfers, credit cards, and electronic wallets. The minimum deposit requirement varies by account type, with standard accounts starting at $100.
Deposits are processed relatively quickly, typically within 1-3 business days, depending on the payment method used. ACH does not impose significant deposit fees, making it an attractive option for traders looking to minimize costs.
Withdrawals can be made through similar methods, with processing times varying based on the chosen method. ACH typically aims to process withdrawals within 2-5 business days, but clients should be aware of potential delays during peak periods.
The fee structure for withdrawals is generally low, with many methods being free of charge. However, clients should check specific terms, as some payment methods may incur fees based on the amount withdrawn or the frequency of withdrawals.
ACH provides customer support through multiple channels, including phone, email, and online chat. The support team is available during business hours, but clients may experience longer wait times during peak periods.
The broker offers support in Chinese (Simplified), catering to its primary client base in the Asia-Pacific region. This language support is crucial for enhancing communication and ensuring that clients receive timely assistance.
In addition to customer support, ACH provides a range of educational resources, including webinars, tutorials, and e-books. These resources aim to equip traders with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the forex market. Market analysis services, such as daily reports and research articles, are also available to help traders stay informed about market trends and developments.
Trading tools, including calculators and economic calendars, are provided to assist traders in making informed decisions and managing their trades effectively.
ACH primarily serves clients in New Zealand and other regions where it holds regulatory licenses. The broker has established a presence in the Asia-Pacific market, focusing on retail forex traders.
However, due to its regulatory challenges, ACH may face restrictions in certain jurisdictions. Potential clients should verify whether ACH accepts clients from their respective countries before proceeding with account registration.
While ACH aims to expand its reach, traders in regions without regulatory backing may need to consider alternative brokers that offer similar services without the associated risks.
In conclusion, ACH presents a unique opportunity for forex traders seeking a broker that offers competitive trading conditions and a user-friendly platform. However, potential clients should remain vigilant regarding the broker's regulatory status and exercise due diligence before committing funds.