Seacrest Markets
South African FSP Regulated - Moderate TrustPros
- Flexible challenge models with one-step, two-step, and three-step evaluation options providing traders multiple paths to funding
- No time restrictions on completing challenges, allowing traders to prove proficiency at their own pace
- Fast payout processing with most withdrawals completed within 24-48 hours after profit targets are reached
- Competitive commission structure of $6-7 per standard lot which is below industry average
- Responsive customer support team with quick response times and professional service as noted in multiple reviews
- Scalable capital program allowing successful traders to increase their funding allocation over time
- Partnership with established liquidity providers Purple Trading and Match-Prime ensuring reliable trade execution
Cons
- Variable spreads that can widen significantly during news events and volatile market conditions
- Recent rebranding from MyFundedFX to Seacrest Markets has caused some confusion among traders
- Restrictions on US customers limiting accessibility for American traders
- Some traders report "secret rules" that aren't clearly communicated upfront regarding trading restrictions
- Limited cryptocurrency CFD offerings compared to specialized crypto trading platforms
- Inconsistent spread quality reported by some traders particularly during off-peak hours
Basic Information
User Reviews
Regulation Analysis
Seacrest Markets operates under South African financial regulation through its brokerage arm, with oversight from the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA). The company’s prop trading operations are structured separately from its regulated brokerage activities. Client funds are segregated from operational accounts and held with partner brokers Purple Trading and Match-Prime, which provide additional layers of operational security. However, traders should note that South African regulation provides less stringent oversight compared to major regulatory jurisdictions like the UK’s FCA or EU’s CySEC. The broker does not participate in any government-backed compensation schemes, and client fund protection is limited to internal policies rather than regulatory requirements. While Seacrest Markets maintains compliance with basic financial service provider requirements in South Africa, traders should understand that this represents a moderate level of regulatory protection. The company has maintained a clean regulatory record since its establishment in 2022, with no reported violations or regulatory actions. The recent rebranding from MyFundedFX to Seacrest Markets was completed in compliance with regulatory requirements, though this transition has led to some operational adjustments including restrictions on US clients.
Trading Products
- Forex Trading: Wide selection of major, minor and exotic currency pairs with variable spreads and commission-based pricing structure. Major pairs include EUR/USD, GBP/USD, USD/JPY with competitive spreads during main market hours
- Commodities: Trading available on gold, silver, and oil contracts with standardized lot sizes and competitive spreads
- Indices: Access to major global indices including US30, SP500, UK100, and other popular index CFDs
- Cryptocurrencies: Select cryptocurrency CFDs available for trading, though with a more limited selection compared to specialized crypto platforms
- Trading Conditions: Leverage varies by instrument type, with standard lots of 100,000 units for forex pairs. Trading hours follow standard market sessions with 24/5 forex trading availability
Trading Platforms
Seacrest Markets provides traders access to both MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 platforms, catering to different trading preferences and strategies. The MT4 platform offers a familiar interface with essential trading tools, including customizable charts, multiple timeframes, and support for automated trading through Expert Advisors. MT5 provides additional features including an economic calendar, more technical indicators, and enhanced backtesting capabilities. Both platforms are available across desktop (Windows/Mac), web browser, and mobile devices (iOS/Android). The web trading interface allows for quick access without downloads, while mobile apps enable trading on the go with full account management capabilities. Platform stability is generally reliable with quick execution speeds reported by users, though some traders note occasional spread widening during high-impact news events. The broker provides VPS hosting options for algorithmic traders and those running Expert Advisors, ensuring consistent connectivity and execution.
Deposit and Withdrawal
Seacrest Markets offers multiple payment methods for deposits and withdrawals, with processing times and fees varying by method. Credit/debit card deposits are processed instantly with no fees from the broker’s side. Bank wire transfers are accepted but may take 2-5 business days for processing. E-wallet options include popular providers for faster transaction processing. The minimum deposit requirement varies based on the chosen challenge model and account type. Withdrawal requests are typically processed within 24-48 hours after approval, with successful challenge completions paid according to the profit split agreement. All transactions require standard KYC verification including proof of identity and residence. The broker accepts major currencies including USD, EUR, and GBP as base currencies. Withdrawal methods must match the original deposit method in accordance with anti-money laundering regulations. Some traders report consistent and reliable withdrawal processing, particularly for completed challenge payouts.
Customer Support
Customer support at Seacrest Markets is available through multiple channels including email, live chat, and ticket system. Support hours cover the main trading sessions with representatives available during peak market hours. The support team has received positive feedback for quick response times and professional handling of inquiries, particularly noted in user reviews. Communication is primarily in English, though support for additional languages may be available. Technical support for platform-related issues is handled promptly, with most queries resolved within 24 hours. The broker maintains an online help center with FAQs and educational resources to assist traders with common questions. Dedicated account managers are assigned to funded traders who have successfully completed challenges, providing personalized assistance and trading support.
FAQ
Q: What are the challenge models available at Seacrest Markets?
A: Seacrest Markets offers three evaluation models: one-step, two-step, and three-step challenges. Each model has different profit targets and risk parameters, allowing traders to choose the path that best suits their trading style. There are no time restrictions on completing the challenges, and successful traders can receive funding with profit-sharing arrangements. The evaluation process is designed to identify consistent and disciplined traders who can manage risk effectively.
Q: How does the payout system work for funded traders?
A: Once traders successfully complete their chosen challenge model, they become eligible for profit sharing on their funded account. Payouts are typically processed within 24-48 hours after profit targets are met and verification is completed. The profit split ratio is competitive within the industry, and successful traders can scale up their funding through consistent performance. All withdrawals require standard KYC verification and compliance with trading rules.
Q: What are the trading platform options and execution conditions?
A: Traders can access markets through both MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 platforms, available on desktop, web, and mobile devices. The broker partners with Purple Trading and Match-Prime for liquidity, offering variable spreads that typically remain competitive during main market hours. Commission rates range from $6-7 per standard lot, which is slightly below industry average. Platform stability is generally reliable, though spread widening can occur during major news events.
Q: What customer support options are available?
A: Seacrest Markets provides customer support through email, live chat, and a ticket system during main trading hours. Support staff are known for quick response times and professional service, particularly in handling technical queries and withdrawal requests. The broker maintains an online help center with educational resources and FAQs. Funded traders receive additional support through dedicated account managers who can assist with trading-related questions and account optimization.