Okayasu Shoji Co., Ltd., founded in 1952, is a prominent player in the financial services sector, particularly in the realm of forex and CFD trading. The company is headquartered in Osaka, Japan, specifically at 2-3-8 Kitahama, Chuo-ku, Osaka 541-0041. Okayasu Shoji operates as a private entity, catering primarily to retail and institutional clients.
Over the years, Okayasu Shoji has established a significant presence in the Japanese market, providing a range of trading services. The company has achieved several milestones, including the expansion of its product offerings and the enhancement of its trading platform capabilities. As a well-established broker, it has built a reputation for reliability, although recent regulatory challenges have raised concerns about its operational integrity.
The business model of Okayasu Shoji encompasses retail forex trading, CFD trading, and commodities trading. The broker primarily serves the Japanese market but also extends its services to international clients, thus diversifying its customer base and enhancing its market reach.
Okayasu Shoji is regulated by the Financial Services Agency (FSA) of Japan, holding the license number Kinki Finance Bureau No. 304. This regulatory oversight is crucial as it ensures that the broker adheres to the stringent requirements set forth by the FSA, aimed at protecting investors and maintaining market integrity.
The regulatory license is valid for conducting retail forex trading and other financial services. However, it is essential to note that the company has faced regulatory scrutiny in the past, with disclosures indicating administrative actions taken against it for compliance violations. These actions included a suspension of trading activities and a fine imposed by the Osaka Exchange.
Okayasu Shoji follows strict Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance measures, which are vital for safeguarding customer funds and preventing illicit activities. The company also implements customer fund segregation policies, ensuring that client funds are held in separate accounts to enhance security.
As a comprehensive trading platform, Okayasu Shoji offers a diverse array of trading products. The broker provides access to a wide range of forex currency pairs, including major, minor, and exotic pairs. This extensive selection allows traders to engage in various trading strategies, catering to both novice and experienced traders.
In addition to forex, Okayasu Shoji offers a variety of CFD products, including indices, commodities, stocks, and cryptocurrencies. The inclusion of these asset classes enables clients to diversify their trading portfolios and capitalize on market opportunities across different sectors.
The broker regularly updates its product offerings to align with market trends, ensuring that clients have access to the latest trading instruments. Retail trading services are complemented by institutional services, allowing professional traders and institutions to benefit from the broker's expertise and resources.
Okayasu Shoji does not support MetaTrader 4 (MT4) or MetaTrader 5 (MT5), which are popular trading platforms among forex traders. Instead, the broker utilizes its proprietary trading platform, designed to provide a user-friendly interface and facilitate efficient trading experiences.
The company also offers a web-based trading platform, enabling clients to trade directly from their browsers without the need for additional software. Furthermore, Okayasu Shoji has developed mobile applications compatible with both iOS and Android, allowing traders to access their accounts and execute trades on the go.
The broker employs a Market Making execution model, which is designed to provide liquidity and competitive spreads. The trading infrastructure is backed by advanced technology, ensuring fast order execution and reliable performance. Additionally, API access is available for automated trading, catering to clients who prefer algorithmic trading strategies.
Okayasu Shoji offers several account types, each tailored to meet the needs of different traders. The standard account typically requires a minimum deposit, with competitive spreads and no commissions on trades.
For more experienced traders, Okayasu Shoji provides VIP or professional accounts, which may offer enhanced trading conditions, including lower spreads and higher leverage options. The broker also has provisions for Islamic accounts, ensuring compliance with Sharia law for traders who require such arrangements.
The minimum trading lot size varies depending on the account type, with most accounts allowing for micro-lot trading. Leverage ratios can differ by product, enabling traders to maximize their potential returns while managing risk effectively. Overnight fees are applicable, and traders are advised to review the specific policies related to swap rates.
Okayasu Shoji supports various deposit methods, including bank transfers, credit cards, and electronic wallets. The minimum deposit requirement varies across account types, with specific conditions outlined for each.
Deposits are processed promptly, typically within a few business days, and the broker does not charge fees for most deposit methods. However, clients should be aware of any potential fees imposed by their banks or payment processors.
Withdrawal methods are similarly flexible, allowing clients to withdraw funds using the same methods used for deposits. Withdrawal processing times can vary, but the broker aims to manage requests efficiently. Fees for withdrawals may apply, particularly for certain payment methods or if the withdrawal amount falls below a specified threshold.
Okayasu Shoji offers a range of customer support channels, including phone support, email assistance, and online chat options. The support team is available during business hours, catering primarily to Japanese-speaking clients, although English support may also be available.
The broker provides a variety of educational resources to help traders enhance their skills. These include webinars, tutorial videos, and eBooks covering various trading strategies and market analyses. Additionally, clients can access market analysis services, including daily reports and research materials, to stay informed about market developments.
Trading tools such as calculators and economic calendars are also available, assisting traders in making informed decisions and optimizing their trading strategies.
Okayasu Shoji primarily serves the Japanese market, with a significant focus on domestic clients. The company's regional offices are strategically located to provide localized support and services.
While Okayasu Shoji is open to international clients, there are specific countries from which it does not accept customers, primarily due to regulatory restrictions. Clients interested in trading with Okayasu Shoji should verify their eligibility based on their country of residence.
In summary, Okayasu Shoji is a well-established forex broker that offers a comprehensive suite of trading products and services. Despite facing some regulatory challenges, the company remains a viable option for traders seeking to engage in forex and CFD trading within a regulated framework. With its diverse offerings and commitment to customer support, Okayasu Shoji continues to cater to the evolving needs of its clients in the financial markets.