Pros
- Licensed by multiple tier-1 regulators including SFC Hong Kong (CE No. AZT137) and SEC/FINRA in the US providing strong regulatory oversight
- Comprehensive trading platform (Futubull/Moomoo) with advanced features, real-time market data, and cross-market capabilities
- Highly competitive commission rates starting from $0.99 per trade or 0.03% of transaction value
- Robust technology infrastructure with reliable trade execution and platform stability
- Strong financial position as a NASDAQ-listed company (FUTU) with over $16 billion market capitalization
- Extensive market access including US, Hong Kong, Singapore and China A-shares markets
- Comprehensive research tools and market analysis provided through the platform
Cons
- Minimum commission of $0.99 per trade may be high for very small trades
- Customer service response times can be slow during peak hours with long chat queues
- Platform fees of $0.99 per trade add to trading costs
- Limited forex and CFD offerings compared to specialized forex brokers
- Currency conversion fees of 0.05-0.1% apply when converting between currencies
- Complex fee structure across different markets can be confusing for new traders
Basic Information
User Reviews
Regulation Analysis
Futu operates under a comprehensive regulatory framework across multiple jurisdictions. The company’s primary entity, Futu Securities International (Hong Kong) Limited, is licensed by the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong (CE No. AZT137) with Type 1 (Dealing in Securities), Type 2 (Dealing in Futures Contracts), Type 4 (Advising on Securities), Type 7 (Providing Automated Trading Services), and Type 9 (Asset Management) licenses. In the United States, Futu has obtained both SEC registration and FINRA membership through its subsidiary Futu Clearing Inc., enabling it to provide clearing services and expanded trading capabilities to US clients. The broker adheres to strict capital adequacy requirements and maintains segregated client funds in accordance with regulatory requirements. Client assets are protected through various compensation schemes including the Hong Kong Investor Compensation Fund. The company maintains a strong compliance record with no major regulatory infractions reported. Futu’s multi-jurisdictional regulatory status provides clients with enhanced protection and oversight, particularly important given its role in facilitating cross-border trading activities.
Trading Products
- Stocks: Access to multiple markets including US (NYSE, NASDAQ), Hong Kong (HKEX), Singapore (SGX), and China A-shares through Stock Connect, with real-time quotes and comprehensive company data
- ETFs: Wide range of exchange-traded funds across major global markets with competitive commission rates
- Options: US stock options trading with advanced options chain analysis tools and risk management features
- Warrants and CBBCs: Extensive selection of derivative products for Hong Kong market traders
- Fund Products: Access to mutual funds and money market instruments for portfolio diversification
- Trading Hours: Market-specific trading hours with extended hours trading available for US markets
- Margin Trading: Competitive margin rates with real-time position monitoring and risk management tools
Trading Platforms
- Futubull: Proprietary trading platform with advanced charting capabilities, real-time market data, news integration, and comprehensive research tools. Available on web, desktop, and mobile devices
- Moomoo: Next-generation trading platform featuring artificial intelligence-powered analytics, social trading features, and enhanced market research capabilities
- Mobile Trading: Native iOS and Android applications with full trading functionality, real-time quotes, and push notifications
- Platform Features: Advanced order types, customizable watchlists, technical analysis tools, fundamental research, and community features for sharing trading ideas
- API Access: FutuOpenD API available for algorithmic trading and custom integration
Deposit and Withdrawal
- Deposit Methods: Bank wire transfer, ACH (US), FPS (Hong Kong), FAST (Singapore), credit/debit cards
- Minimum Deposit: No mandatory minimum, though $100 recommended for efficient trading
- Processing Times: Electronic transfers typically process within 1-2 business days, wire transfers 2-5 business days
- Deposit Fees: No fees charged by Futu for deposits, though intermediary banks may charge fees
- Withdrawal Methods: Same as deposit methods with funds returned to original source
- Withdrawal Processing: 1-3 business days for electronic transfers, 3-5 days for wire transfers
- Currency Options: USD, HKD, SGD, CNH with competitive conversion rates
- Account Verification: Standard KYC procedures required including government ID and proof of address
Customer Support
Futu provides customer support through multiple channels including 24/5 live chat, email, and phone support. The service team is available in English, Chinese (Traditional and Simplified), and other regional languages. Support quality is generally professional though response times can be delayed during peak market hours. The broker maintains local support teams in Hong Kong, Singapore, and the United States to provide region-specific assistance. Educational resources include comprehensive trading guides, video tutorials, webinars, and regular market analysis. A knowledge base with detailed platform guides and FAQs is available for self-service support. VIP clients receive priority support and dedicated account managers.
FAQ
Q: Is Futu a reliable and regulated broker?
A: Yes, Futu is a well-regulated broker licensed by multiple tier-1 regulators including Hong Kong’s SFC (CE No. AZT137) and US SEC/FINRA. As a NASDAQ-listed company with over $16 billion market capitalization, it maintains strong financial stability and regulatory compliance. Client funds are segregated and protected under relevant regulatory frameworks.
Q: What are the trading costs at Futu?
A: Futu charges commissions starting from $0.99 per trade or 0.03% of transaction value, whichever is higher. Platform fees of $0.99 per trade apply. Currency conversion fees range from 0.05-0.1% when trading in different currencies. No custody or inactivity fees are charged.
Q: What markets can I access through Futu?
A: Futu provides access to multiple markets including US stocks (NYSE, NASDAQ), Hong Kong stocks (HKEX), Singapore stocks (SGX), and China A-shares through Stock Connect. Products include stocks, ETFs, options, warrants, and mutual funds. Real-time market data is provided for subscribed markets.
Q: How long do withdrawals take to process?
A: Withdrawal processing times vary by method and region. Electronic transfers typically complete in 1-3 business days, while wire transfers take 3-5 business days. All withdrawals require prior account verification and are returned to the original funding source for security purposes.