Trade245 is a South African forex broker offering access to the global financial markets via MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5).
Customer reviews for Trade245 are mixed but generally lean positive, highlighting its appeal among traders.
Because the brand is still new and has changed its structure over time, South African traders often ask: is Trade245 a regulated broker, what is the real minimum deposit, and how easy are withdrawals?
As of 1 November 2025, Trade245 (Pty) Ltd changed its Over-the-Counter Derivatives Provider (ODP) to RocketX (Pty) Ltd and required clients to accept a new Client Agreement by 30 November 2025.
Traders should take into account the complaints Trade245 has received about financial misconduct and withdrawal denials, despite its regulatory status.
This change matters because it clarifies who your counterparty is when you trade forex or other CFDs.
The following section provides a comprehensive analysis of the Financial Sector Conduct Authority perspective, the trading accounts available, spreads, fees, funding, and support.
Additionally, we provide a fair assessment of the broker’s suitability for South African traders.
We value your feedback: Rate this broker by leaving a comment and rating below this review.
Pros
FSCA-linked structure
Trade245 presents an FSCA-authorised chain for its services in South Africa. For local clients, having an operator plugged into the Financial Sector Conduct Authority framework provides a baseline of legal oversight and complaint escalation pathways that many unregulated offshore brokers lack. Additionally, Trade245 maintains segregated accounts to protect customer funds, adhering to solid financial reporting standards.
Low entry levels
The site’s minimum deposit guidance shows you can start with as little as R50 on the MT5 Micro account for certain forex market instruments. This allows new traders to engage with Trade245 using minimal stakes while they learn before committing larger amounts. For indices and certain symbols, the required capital is higher; please refer to the “Minimum deposit” section.
High leverage is available across various platforms.
With a maximum leverage of 1:500, experienced traders can manage larger positions using smaller deposited funds. When paired with MT4 and MT5, two of the most popular trading platforms globally, you can run EAs, backtest ideas, and access comprehensive charting.
Range of markets
You can access major, minor and selected exotic forex pairs, key indices (e.g., NAS100/USA30/GER30), metals and energy commodities, stock CFDs and cryptocurrencies. That breadth helps diversify strategies across global markets.
Local and digital payments
For funding a trading account, Trade245 supports South Africa-friendly options such as Ozow, local bank transfer/EFT and M-Pesa, alongside cards, Skrill/Neteller and crypto. That mix typically results in quick deposits and flexible cash-in routes.
Cons
Structural complexity
Trade245 uses multiple entities (see Regulation) and moved ODP to RocketX (Pty) Ltd in Nov 2025. While not unusual in SA’s derivatives landscape, it does mean you should read the Client Agreement carefully so you know exactly who your counterparty is and which terms govern your trading account.
Mixed withdrawal feedback
User commentary around the web frequently mentions extra documentation and withdrawal delays. This isn’t unique to Trade245, but it’s a recurring theme to factor into risk management: always test a small cash-out early and keep meticulous records.
Lean education and research
Compared with large Tier-1-regulated brands, Trade245’s education hub is modest. If you’re learning to trade forex, you may want to supplement with independent courses, strategy guides and economic-calendar-driven research.
Small-capital realism
Yes, R50 is a low minimum deposit, but practical trading especially on indices like NAS100 can require more margin to avoid tiny position sizes or fast stop-outs. New traders should balance low entry with realistic buffer capital.
Regulation
How Trade245 positions its authorisations
- Trade245 (Pty) Ltd is an appointed Juristic Representative of Red Pine Capital (Pty) Ltd, an FSCA-authorised Financial Services Provider (FSP 46044).
- From 1 November 2025, Trade245 changed its ODP to RocketX (Pty) Ltd (FSP 52142).
- Clients were required to accept the new Client Agreement by 30 November 2025; RocketX is the counterparty and principal to all CFDs.
Why this matters:
This structure means your legal relationship for CFD execution is with RocketX, not just the front-end brand. For South African traders, this gives clarity under local legislation.
Still, FSCA oversight differs from Tier-1 regimes (FCA/ASIC/CySEC) in compensation schemes and leverage limits, so set expectations accordingly.
Practical tip
Before funding, open the Legal/Terms section in your dashboard and confirm the contracting party, ODP and applicable T&Cs.
Verify relevant FSP entries on the FSCA site.
This simple due-diligence step protects you if there’s ever a dispute.
Reliability
Trade245’s core offer, which includes high leverage, South Africa-friendly funding, and access to MT4/MT5, is highly appealing.
However, we rate overall reliability as moderate due to:
- The ODP transition (Nov 2025), which can bring operational/documentation updates.
- Some withdrawal complaints mention issues with re-verification and longer processing times for specific methods or bonus accounts.
- Limited public, third-party verification of execution quality (fill speed, slippage) beyond marketing claims.
If reliability is your top priority, consider running Trade245 in parallel with a Tier-1-regulated account until you are satisfied with funding/withdrawals and everyday support.
Tradable products
Trade245 covers the key financial markets most forex broker clients expect:
- Forex: Majors (EUR/USD, GBP/USD, USD/JPY), minors (EUR/GBP, AUD/JPY) and selected exotics. Liquidity is strongest on majors, where spreads are typically tighter and slippage lower.
- Indices CFDs: Popular US/EU benchmarks such as NAS100, USA30 (Dow) and GER30 (DAX). These are volatile and margin-intensive; they suit disciplined, risk-managed strategies.
- Commodities: Precious metals (gold/silver) and energy (oil). Often used for macro hedging and event-driven trades.
- Stock CFDs: A curated list of individual equities for earnings-season plays or momentum trades.
- Cryptocurrency CFDs: Bitcoin, Ethereum and select alts for 24/5 speculative exposure without managing wallets.
For strategy design, confirm symbol lists, trading hours and contract specifications in the platform (“specs” window); some products have wider spreads or different session times.
Account types
Trade245 offers seven trading account types, each tailored to different trading goals, experience levels and strategies.
All accounts feature maximum leverage of 1:500, variable spreads, and access to MetaTrader 4, while the Micro account also supports MT5. Here’s the full breakdown:
1. Bonus 100 Account
- Leverage: 1:500
- Spread type: Variable
- Spreads: From 1 pip
- Bonus: Included (100 % deposit bonus)
- Platform: MT4
This account doubles your starting balance via a 100 % bonus, useful for traders who want more margin to trade larger positions. Remember: all bonus funds are subject to volume requirements before withdrawal.
2. No Bonus Account
- Leverage: 1:500
- Spread type: Variable
- Spreads: From 1 pip
- Bonus: Excluded
- Platform: MT4
The clean, no-strings option. Ideal for traders who prefer straightforward trading with no bonus restrictions on profits or withdrawals.
3. Swap-Free Account
- Leverage: 1:500
- Spread type: Variable
- Spreads: From 1 pip
- Bonus: Excluded
- Platform: MT4
Designed for Islamic traders who need to comply with Sharia principles. This account removes overnight swap or rollover interest charges. Some administrative fees may still apply for long-term positions.
4. Zero Spread Account
- Leverage: 1:500
- Spread type: Variable
- Spreads: From 0 pip
- Bonus: Excluded
- Platform: MT4
Built for scalpers and high-frequency traders. You’ll see ultra-tight spreads (often 0 pips on majors) with a commission per lot. Best for experienced users who monitor total trading costs carefully.
5. Bonus 245 Account
- Leverage: 1:500
- Spread type: Variable
- Spreads: From 1 pip
- Bonus: Included (245 % deposit bonus)
- Platform: MT4
Trade245’s headline promotion account, offering up to 245% in trading credit. You should always review the Bonus Policy before opting in, as it significantly increases the available margin, but it is subject to strict turnover and expiry rules.
6. Bonus Rescue Account
- Leverage: 1:500
- Spread type: Variable
- Spreads: From 1 pip
- Bonus: Included (25 % drawdown protection)
- Platform: MT4
A unique setup that provides a 25% bonus buffer against drawdown. When your equity falls, part of the bonus offsets losses, but terms limit how and when remaining funds can be withdrawn.
7. Micro Account
- Leverage: 1:500
- Spread type: Variable
- Spreads: From 1 pip
- Bonus: Excluded
- Platform: MT4 & MT5
Perfect for new traders or those testing new strategies. It uses micro-lot sizing, allowing you to trade with lower margin requirements. Depending on the instrument, you can begin with as little as R50 (about $5). Ideal for practicing risk management with real-market execution.
Choosing the Right Account
If you’re just beginning, the Micro Account offers the safest entry point.
Traders who want unrestricted withdrawals should pick No Bonus or Swap-Free.
Experienced or aggressive traders might prefer Zero Spread for cost efficiency or Bonus 245 for high leverage trading, provided they understand the conditions attached.
Each account still operates under the same FSCA-linked structure and the new RocketX (Pty) Ltd ODP relationship announced in November 2025, so regulatory coverage and trading conditions remain consistent across account types.
Opening an account
- Click Sign Up and choose Demo or Live.
- Complete personal details and email/phone verification.
- Upload FICA documents (ID and proof of address).
- Select account type, base currency (ZAR, USD, GBP) and platform (MT4/MT5).
- Fund via your preferred method and start with a demo or micro position.
We recommend opening a demo account first, then funding a Micro/Cent account to experience live spreads, swaps and slippage before scaling.
Minimum deposit
Trade245’s site explains that the minimum deposit depends on the account type and instrument:
- MT4 Micro
- NAS100 (Nasdaq 100): $100 (≈ R1,833.93)
- USA30 & GER30: around R80–R100
- Currency pairs: R150–R200
- MT5 Micro
- Currency pairs: R50–R100
- Indices: R150–R200
Takeaway: the lowest entry point is R50 on MT5 Micro Forex, but trading indices or larger lot sizes will require more margin.
Always check margin requirements in the platform before placing trades.
Account currency
You can open a trading account in ZAR, USD or GBP.
Funding in your native currency can reduce conversion costs.
If you plan to trade USD-quoted instruments, consider a USD base to keep P&L and swaps straightforward.
Platforms
MetaTrader 4 (MT4)
The classic trading platform many South Africans learnt on.
You’ll get nine timeframes, ~30 built-in indicators, one-click trading and full Expert Advisor (EA) support. Great for discretionary trading and light automation.
MetaTrader 5 (MT5)
A multi-asset upgrade with 21 timeframes, more pending order types, a powerful strategy tester, and better handling of non-FX assets. Some Trade245 accounts (e.g., Weekend Trader) require MT5.
If you run complex algos or need multi-asset depth, MT5 is the more future-proof choice.
Mobile apps for both platforms allow you to monitor positions and place orders on the move; most serious analysis is still best on desktop.
Spreads and commission
Pricing varies by account type and market conditions:
- Standard / No-Bonus / Swap-Free: variable spreads typically starting around 1.0–1.8 pips on EUR/USD in normal liquidity.
- Zero-Spread: ~0.1 pips (sometimes “0”) plus a commission per lot. For high-frequency trading, model total cost (spread + commission + slippage) to decide if Zero beats Standard.
Remember that during volatile events (CPI, NFP, rate decisions), spreads widen and orders can slip. Keep stops sensible and size positions conservative.
Fees
- Deposits: Trade245 does not charge deposit fees; your bank/e-wallet/crypto gateway may.
- Withdrawals: Broker-side fees are typically zero, but processing time depends on method and KYC status.
- Swaps (overnight financing): Apply on positions held past rollover; check long/short rates per symbol in the platform.
- Bonuses: Read the Bonus Policy. Volume hurdles and time limits can make bonus-linked profit withdrawals difficult.
- Inactivity: If you pause trading, check the T&Cs for any inactivity or dormancy fees.
Leverage
A maximum of 1:500 is available on certain accounts. Leverage multiplies both gains and losses; small moves can wipe equity if position size is too large.
For new South African traders, we strongly suggest starting around 1:10–1:30 effective leverage until you have a proven system and strict risk rules (e.g., 0.5–1.0% risk per trade).
Deposits & withdrawals
Deposit methods include Mastercard/Visa, Ozow and local EFT, M-Pesa, Skrill/Neteller and crypto. Deposits by card/e-wallet are usually fast.
Withdrawals: many clients report smooth cash-outs; others report additional KYC requests or slower processing, especially with bonuses or mismatched deposit/withdrawal methods. Best practice is to:
- Use the same method for deposits and withdrawals.
- Verify your profile immediately after sign-up.
- Test a small withdrawal early to confirm timelines with your bank/e-wallet.
Education & research
Trade245 provides basic articles, a glossary and platform guides. It’s enough to get started, but not a replacement for robust strategy education.
If your goal is profi trades over the long term, build a routine around third-party research, a disciplined journal and periodic backtesting on MT5.
Customer service
Support is listed as 24/5 via live chat, email and phone.
In our experience and from public feedback, chat is fine for account basics, while complex items (e.g., withdrawal disputes, bonus T&Cs, swap clarifications) may take longer and involve multiple touchpoints.
Keep all correspondence and screenshots, it speeds up resolutions.
Bonuses & promotional offers
Trade245’s Bonus 100, Bonus 245 and Bonus Rescue are aggressive promotions designed to increase available margin. The bonus offerings at Trade245 come with strict terms, including trading volume requirements before withdrawal.
They can help experienced traders who already generate volume. For most newcomers, we suggest No-Bonus or Micro first, then consider a bonus later once you fully understand turnover requirements, expiry windows and withdrawal rules.
Special features
- Micro/Cent accounts: perfect for testing strategies live with minimal risk and for EA calibration.
- Zero-Spread” tight pricing for scalpers/system traders who prefer paying explicit commission.
- Swap-Free (Islamic): available under specific conditions; confirm any admin fees.
- Weekend Trader (MT5): access to instruments that trade outside standard market hours.
Pros & Cons Summary
Advantages
- FSCA-linked oversight and a clearly stated ODP/counterparty.
- Very low minimum deposit possible on MT5 Micro forex.
- MT4 & MT5 on desktop and mobile.
- 1:500 leverage for experienced strategies.
- Wide selection of global markets with SA-friendly funding.
Disadvantages / Risks
- Multi-entity structure requires careful reading of the Client Agreement.
- Mixed withdrawal feedback; test early and document everything.
- Leaner education/research than Tier-1 giants.
- Bonus terms can limit flexibility around deposited funds and profits.
Comparison vs Tier-1 Competitors
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If you prioritise Tier-1 protection and extensive education suites, compare against larger global firms.
If you require local deposits, ZAR accounts, and high leverage, Trade245 is a competitive option.
Is Trade245 right for you?
Best suited for:
Experienced forex traders in South Africa who want MT4/MT5, flexible funding, and are comfor managing leverage and broker-specific withdrawal rules. Many users find that the platform offers excellent value, especially for short-term and scalping strategies.
Less sui for:
Complete beginners who need intensive education and instant, no-questions withdrawals; traders who demand Tier-1 compensation schemes; and anyone who dislikes bonus fine-print.
Final verdict of Trade245 Forex Broker
This review provides a general summary of Trade245 as a forex broker serving South African traders. Trade245 provides important features like oversight from the FSCA, access to popular trading platforms MT4 and MT5, high leverage options, local deposit methods, and a wide range of markets, all available with a small minimum deposit. However, these benefits come with some trade-offs, including a complex corporate structure, limited educational resources, and mixed feedback regarding withdrawal processes. Trade245’s regulatory oversight is considered lower tier compared to more reliable brokers, according to expert reviews.
For those considering Trade245, it is important to carefully review the client agreement to understand the contracting entity and terms. Starting with smaller deposits and testing withdrawal procedures early can help manage potential risks. Traders should verify a broker’s regulatory status to ensure they operate within legal frameworks and offer integrity.
Traders seeking extensive investor protections and comprehensive educational materials may wish to explore brokers regulated by Tier-1 authorities, even if that means accepting lower leverage levels.
This overview is intended to inform readers based on available information and does not constitute investment advice.
>Broker FAQ
Thinking of Trading with Trade245?
Is Trade245 legit?
Yes, the brand operates within an FSCA-linked framework and, since Nov 2025, executes via RocketX (Pty) Ltd as ODP/counterparty. Regulation is real, but protections are different from Tier-1 regimes.
What is the minimum deposit?
From ~R50 on MT5 Micro forex. For NAS100 on MT4 Micro, guidance is $100 (~R1,833.93); USA30/GER30 around R80–R100; forex pairs typically R50–R200 depending on account and symbol.
How long do withdrawals take?
Varies by method and KYC status. Many are routine; others may require additional documents and take longer. Always test a small withdrawal early. Withdrawals to FNB often reflect within hours according to Trade245.
Who is my counterparty?
As of 1 November 2025, RocketX (Pty) Ltd acts as counterparty and principal to all CFDs. Accepting the new Client Agreement (deadline 30 November 2025) is mandatory to continue trading.
