Akatsuki Securities -Some Important Points about This Broker

Overview of Akatsuki Securities

Akatsuki Securities, stationed in Japan, holds a prominent position in the financial services industry and offers a wide spectrum of financial instruments to meet diverse trading needs. They tender domestic and international stocks, various categories of bonds, and investment trusts. With an extended market outreach, this firm caters well to a range of investor profiles. A special feature that distinguishes them is their proprietary trading platform, named Click 365.

Aligned with Japan's Financial Services Agency protocols, Akatsuki Securities adheres to strict standards under regulatory surveillance, ensuring transparent and fair trading practices. In terms of customer service, they prioritize consumer response, committing to high-quality client assistance.

Is Akatsuki Securities legit or a scam？

Akatsuki Securities is a regulated financial institution. It is regulated by the Financial Services Agency in Japan. The company holds the Retail Forex License lending it credibility and confidence for its clients. Having the authorization to operate with a Retail Forex License highlights the fact that it adheres to the stringent financial standards and norms stipulated by the regulatory body.

The license under which Akatsuki Securities operates is effective from September 30, 2007. The regulated status implies Akatsuki is currently functioning within the purview of the particular regulatory authority, serving to further assure their clients with trust. This verified regulatory status emphasizes Akatsuki Securities' compliance with the legal and financial norms deemed necessary in the financial landscape of Japan.

Pros and Cons

Akatsuki Securities certainly has several advantages, or pros, to consider. Firstly, its longevity in the financial market speaks volumes about its stability and reliability as a company. Secondly, with its diverse product offerings like domestic and foreign stocks, bonds, and investment trusts, it caters to a wide range of financial avenues. Thirdly, it provides ease of account opening procedures which can be done online, by mail, or even in person. Fourthly, Akatsuki Securities offers a compelling Account Transfer service, providing convenience for transactions. Lastly, the company appears to prioritize customer service, offering extensive guidance and support for clients.

However, a balanced assessment also means acknowledging some areas of concern. Firstly, the handling of foreign currency is not clearly detailed, which could be a red flag for international clients. Secondly, account opening turnaround times are not explicitly stated which might cause uncertainty for some customers. Thirdly, the range of the financial institutions that customers can link their securities account to may be limited, causing inconvenience to some. Fourthly, account transfers are not automated and require instructions each time, causing a bit of hassle. Finally, while Akatsuki Securities does not levy fees on withdrawals, bank transfer fees for deposits are to be borne by the customer, which could make transactions slightly expensive for some.

Market Instruments

Akatsuki Securities is a versatile broker providing a wide range of financial instruments including both domestic and foreign stocks, with a foreign securities information list to keep investors informed. They offer investment trusts with an extensive list of funds and a tax-free NISA system for profits and dividends on these listed trusts and stocks. Different types of bonds, such as foreign currency bonds, yen-denominated bonds, and government bonds for individuals are also available.

Notably, they are the first to introduce public exchange stock index margin trading in Japan via Click Kabu 365, and also offer public foreign exchange margin trading through Click 365. They house structured bond trading and automated asset management with ON COMPASS+, highlighting their variety of investment options. The company also shows dedication to inclusivity with services targeting seniors, making finance accessible for all age demographics.

How to open an account in Akatsuki Securities？

Opening an account with Akatsuki Securities is a fairly simple procedure that can be done online, by mail, or in-person depending upon the convenience of the applicant. They have simplified these processes for the ease of their future customers. Here are the steps to get started:

1. This could be via the 'Easy Web Account Opening' online, by mail, or by visiting one of Akatsuki Securities' branches.

2. This includes My Number confirmation documents and identity confirmation documents. Digital copies of these documents are required for the online application.

3. If you're opting for the online method, start the Easy Web Account Opening application. For physical applications, download the necessary forms.

4. Fill out all the necessary information on the application. If you're going through an Independent Financial Advisor (IFA), you will need to enter a department code and operator code.

5. For online applicants, simply submit the application via the website. If applying via mail, send your completed securities trading application form with a copy of your identification documents.

6. This step is only for those who opt for in-person applications. Remember to bring your identity verification documents, bank details, and a signature stamp.

Spread and Commission Fees

Akatsuki Securities utilizes a tiered commission fee structure for its transactions. Domestic stocks and stock acquisition rights securities have a sliding fee scale that decreases as the transaction amount increases, with a minimum fee of 2,750 yen or around 1.265% for transactions under 1 million yen. For more extensive transactions, such as those over 50 million yen, the fees are subject to negotiation. Overseas outsourced transactions and domestic over-the-counter transactions for foreign stocks also have tiered commission fees and include a standard handling fee.

Akatsuki Securities offers its clients the opportunity to trade in 25 major currency pairs, with a typical transaction size of 10,000 currency units. The firm applies a spread fee for each trade that clients execute on its platform. Specifically, for trades involving the pairs of USDJPY and EURJPY, a relatively low spread fee of 0.5 pips is charged. Meanwhile, for trades of GBPJPY, the spread fee increases slightly to 1 pip. This indicates that Akatsuki Securities maintains competitive transaction costs, which could enhance trading outcomes for its clients. It's crucial to remember that several additional charges, such as local fees or other restrictions, may apply to all transactions.

Trading Platform

Akatsuki Securities brings forth a distinct trading platform known as Click 365. The platform has been introduced as Japan's first public exchange for foreign exchange margin trading. It is a service offered through Yutaka Trusty Securities Co., wherein Akatsuki Securities functions as an intermediary. The platform is designed to allow round-the-clock trading, which is different from stock trading. This global accessibility implies that market prices can fluctuate 24 hours a day, making trading feasible even on public holidays in Japan and overseas, except for certain exceptions like Saturdays, Sundays, and New Year's Day.

While the platform provides substantial trading opportunities, Akatsuki Securities equally emphasizes the understanding of associated risks, such as price fluctuation and liquidity risk. Besides trading, the platform supplements basic services like online balance inquiry, a direct debit service, and a rebate service for stock or investment trust transfer fees, while also providing a dedicated customer support hotline.

Deposit & Withdrawal

Akatsuki Securities has clearly defined its deposit and withdrawal methods, facilitating an easy transaction process for its clients. When making their first transaction, customers need to deposit an estimated product cost in advance. This deposit is made via bank transfer with the cost of the transfer borne by the customer. Each Akatsuki Securities branch has a set deposit destination for ease of convenience. It's encouraged for customers to check with their respective branches for clarification.

Regarding withdrawals, Akatsuki Securities adopts a client-friendly approach. Customers looking to withdraw need to ask their branch, which then takes care of the transfer of funds to the client's specified financial institution's account. A highlight of this process is that Akatsuki Securities bears the transfer fees when making a withdrawal, further simplifying the process. It's important to note that specifics about the handling of foreign currency have not been explicitly detailed, thereby indicating a need for potential customers to seek further clarification regarding this aspect of the transaction process.

Customer Support

Akatsuki Securities provides various avenues for their customers to receive support or make inquiries. A convenient inquiry form is available on their website where customers can submit their queries or concerns. For those who would prefer to visit in person, store information is readily available on their site as well. Customers also have the option to reach out via phone.

For inquiries concerning investment banking services, the contact number is 03-6671-7545. The call reception timings are from 8:00 to 17:00 on weekdays. Corporate customers with queries about account opening, deposits, withdrawals, and more can contact the number 0120-753-960 during the aforementioned timings. This comprehensive support and service system ensures that all customers get the assistance they need promptly and efficiently.

Conclusion

Akatsuki Securities is a well-established financial services company based in Japan that provides a diverse array of financial instruments for trading. This includes both domestic and international stocks, bonds, investment trusts, and more. The company offers a unique platform, Click 365, which caters to structured bond trading, stock index margin trading, and foreign exchange margin trading. Additionally, they provide a tax-free NISA system for trading profits and dividends.

Despite its offerings, there have been concerns raised about its tiered commission fee structure, which decreases as the transaction amount increases, potentially affecting those undertaking larger transactions. The company operates under the regulations set by Japan's financial regulatory authority, ensuring it adheres to all required standards. Finally, Akatsuki Securities guarantees a user-friendly experience with an easy account opening procedure, and expedient deposit, withdrawal, and account transfer systems.

FAQs

Q: What is the regulatory status of Akatsuki Securities？

A: Akatsuki Securities is a regulated financial services company based in Japan.

Q: What market instruments does Akatsuki Securities offer？

A: Akatsuki Securities offers diverse financial instruments that include domestic and foreign stocks, bonds, investment trusts, and more, catering to a wide range of financial avenues for its customers.

Q: How does Akatsuki Securities provide customer service to its clients？

A: Customers can make inquiries via an online form, by visiting a branch, or through telephone.

Q: What platforms are made available by Akatsuki Securities for trading？

A: Akatsuki Securities introduces a key trading platform known as Click 365. It is Japan's first public exchange for foreign exchange margin trading, allowing round-the-clock trading.

Q: What is the procedure to open an account with Akatsuki Securities？

A: Offers an easy account opening procedure conducted online, in-person, or by mail.