BOCOM Review 2025: High Leverage, MT4/MT5, Risk Alert

Overview

BOCOM, claiming establishment in 1912 and based in Hong Kong, presents itself as a regulated trading platform under the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC). However, critical analysis reveals significant concerns about this entity's legitimacy. With a minimum deposit of CNY 700 and leverage up to 1:500, the broker offers spreads from 0.0 pips across various assets, including Forex, commodities, indices, stocks, ETFs and bonds.

The platform provides three account types—Standard, ECN, and VIP—along with demo accounts for practice trading. Support services operate 24/5 through live chat, phone, and email channels. While the broker claims comprehensive educational resources and competitive trading conditions, the mixed regulatory status raises serious questions about trader safety and fund security.
For More Information, Visit BOCOM’s Official Website at bocomgroup.com

Overview Table

Aspect	Information
Company Name	BOCOM
Registered Country/Area	Hong Kong
Founded Year	1912 (Claimed)
Regulation	SFC (Mixed Status)
Minimum Deposit	CNY 700
Maximum Leverage	1:500
Spreads	From 0.0 pips
Trading Platforms	MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5
Tradable Assets	Forex, commodities, indices, stocks, ETFs, bonds
Account Types	Standard, ECN, VIP
Demo Account	Yes
Customer Support	24/5 live chat, phone, email
Deposit & Withdrawal	Bank transfer, credit/debit card, e-wallets
Educational Resources	Webinars, articles, video tutorials

Facts List

1. Mixed Regulatory Status: License APJ 121 remains effective while BGZ962 has been revoked
2. Century-Old Claims: States establishment in 1912, positioning as experienced broker
3. High Leverage Options: Offers up to 1:500 leverage for professional traders
4. Low Entry Barrier: Minimum deposit of only CNY 700 makes it accessible
5. Competitive Spreads: Claims spreads starting from 0.0 pips on major pairs
6. Multiple Account Types: Three distinct account options for different trader needs
7. Popular Platforms: Supports both MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5
8. Diverse Asset Range: Six major asset classes available for trading
9. Educational Support: Provides webinars, articles, and video tutorials
10. Payment Flexibility: Multiple deposit and withdrawal methods accepted

BOCOM Licenses and Regulatory

BOCOM operates under a complex regulatory framework that requires careful consideration. The broker holds a license with the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) of Hong Kong, with license number APJ 121 remaining effective. However, their license with number BGZ962 has been revoked, creating a mixed regulatory status that significantly impacts trader confidence and security.

This dual status—one active license and one revoked—represents a serious concern for potential clients. The revocation of a regulatory license typically indicates violations of regulatory requirements or failure to maintain necessary standards. While the reasons for the BGZ962 license revocation are not publicly detailed, such actions by regulatory bodies usually follow serious compliance failures.

The Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong is a reputable regulatory body that maintains strict oversight of financial services providers. For brokers operating under SFC regulation, compliance requirements include segregated client funds, regular audits, and maintenance of adequate capital reserves. However, BOCOM's mixed status suggests these protections may not be fully guaranteed.

Regulatory Licenses

• SFC License APJ 121: Currently effective (Hong Kong)
• SFC License BGZ962: Revoked (Hong Kong)
• No additional international regulatory licenses disclosed
• Mixed compliance status requires enhanced due diligence

Trading Instruments

BOCOM offers a comprehensive selection of trading instruments across six major asset categories, providing traders with diverse opportunities for portfolio diversification and market exposure. The broker's asset range encompasses traditional and modern financial instruments, though the depth within each category varies significantly.

Asset Class	Description	Examples / Details
Forex	Core offering with major, minor, and exotic currency pairs.	EUR/USD, GBP/USD, USD/JPY; spreads from 0.0 pips (ECN accounts)
Commodities	Includes precious metals and energy commodities.	Gold, Silver, Crude Oil, Natural Gas
Indices	Global indices for broader market speculation.	US, European, and Asian stock market benchmarks
Stocks (CFDs)	Contracts on individual company shares from major global exchanges.	Blue-chip companies (exact list not disclosed)
ETFs	Access to asset baskets for thematic or sector-based trading.	Sector-based and regional ETFs (specifics not detailed)
Bonds	Fixed-income instruments; government and corporate bonds available.	Limited details provided

Trading Platforms

BOCOM provides traders with access to the industry's most popular trading platforms—MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5. These platforms have become the gold standard in retail trading, offering robust functionality, extensive customisation options, and broad compatibility across devices.

MetaTrader 4 (MT4)

The classic platform remains popular among traders for its stability and extensive ecosystem. MT4 offers comprehensive charting tools with multiple timeframes, over 30 technical indicators, and analytical objects. The platform supports Expert Advisors (EAs) for automated trading, allowing traders to implement algorithmic strategies. Custom indicators and scripts can be developed using the MQL4 programming language.

MetaTrader 5 (MT5)

As the successor to MT4, this platform offers enhanced features, including more timeframes (21 vs 9), additional order types, and an integrated economic calendar. MT5 supports both netting and hedging position accounting systems, provides depth of market data, and includes more advanced analytical tools. The platform's multi-asset capabilities make it suitable for trading various instrument types beyond forex.

Both platforms are available across multiple devices, ensuring traders can access their accounts and manage positions from anywhere. Desktop versions for Windows and Mac provide the full feature set, while mobile applications for iOS and Android offer essential functionality for on-the-go trading. Web-based versions allow platform access without software installation.

Trading Platforms Comparison Table

Feature	MetaTrader 4	MetaTrader 5
Timeframes	9	21
Technical Indicators	30+	38+
Graphical Objects	31	44
Order Types	4	6
Economic Calendar	No	Yes
Depth of Market	No	Yes
Strategy Tester	Single-threaded	Multi-threaded
Programming Language	MQL4	MQL5
Position Accounting	Hedging only	Netting & Hedging
Market Coverage	Forex, CFDs	Multi-asset

BOCOM How to Open an Account: A Step-by-Step Guide

Opening an account with BOCOM follows a straightforward process designed to get traders operational quickly. The registration procedure has been streamlined to minimise barriers while maintaining necessary compliance requirements.

Step 1: Access Registration: Navigate to BOCOM's website at bocomgroup.com and locate the "Register" or "Open Account" button, typically prominently displayed on the homepage.

Step 2: Personal Information: Complete the registration form with your full legal name, email address, and mobile number, including country code. This creates your unique account credentials.

Step 3: Account Selection: Choose your preferred account type (Standard, ECN, or VIP) based on your trading needs and initial deposit capacity.

Step 4: Identity Verification: Submit required documentation, including government-issued ID and proof of address. This KYC (Know Your Customer) process ensures regulatory compliance.

Step 5: Agreement Review: Read and accept the terms and conditions, risk disclosures, and other legal agreements. Understanding these documents is crucial for informed trading.

Step 6: Account Funding: Make your initial deposit using available payment methods. The minimum deposit varies by account type, starting from CNY 700 for Standard accounts.

Step 7: Platform Download: Download and install your preferred trading platform (MT4 or MT5) using the credentials provided upon account approval.

Step 8: Begin Trading: Once your account is funded and verified, you can start trading across available instruments.

Charts and Analysis

BOCOM provides a comprehensive suite of analytical tools and educational resources designed to support traders at all experience levels. These resources aim to enhance trading knowledge, improve decision-making, and ultimately contribute to better trading outcomes.

Feature	Description	Details / Examples
Technical Analysis Tools	Advanced charting and indicators via MetaTrader platforms.	Chart types: Candlestick, Bar, Line; Drawing tools; Custom indicators
Market Analysis	Regular updates on financial markets.	Daily reports, weekly outlooks, event-driven analysis (e.g., central banks)
Economic Calendar	Calendar of key market-moving events.	Data releases, interest rate decisions, geopolitical events
Educational Webinars	Live and recorded sessions on trading and platform usage.	Covers basic to advanced strategies; includes Q&A sessions
Trading Resources	Downloadable learning materials for offline study.	Guides, e-books, PDFs on trading concepts and risk management
Video Tutorials	Visual step-by-step instructions for traders.	Platform walkthroughs, trading strategies, strategy implementation

BOCOM Account Types

BOCOM offers three distinct account types designed to meet varying trader needs, experience levels, and capital availability. Each account type provides specific features and benefits tailored to different trading approaches.

Standard Account

The entry-level option requires only CNY 700 minimum deposit, making it accessible to new traders or those with limited capital. This account offers competitive spreads from 0.1 pips on major pairs and the full 1:500 leverage. It includes access to all trading instruments and educational resources, making it suitable for traders beginning their journey or testing the broker's services.

ECN Account

Designed for more experienced traders seeking direct market access, the ECN account requires CNY 10,000 minimum deposit. It features raw spreads from 0.0 pips with commission-based pricing, providing a transparent cost structure. This account type offers superior execution speeds and is ideal for scalping strategies or high-frequency trading approaches.

VIP Account

The premium offering requires CNY 100,000 minimum deposit and provides the best trading conditions available. VIP clients enjoy zero spreads on major pairs, priority customer support, dedicated account managers, and exclusive market insights. Additional perks may include lower financing costs, higher leverage availability, and invitations to exclusive trading events.

All account types include demo account access, allowing traders to practise strategies and familiarise themselves with platforms before risking real capital. The flexible structure ensures traders can upgrade their accounts as their skills and capital grow.

Account Types Comparison Table

Feature	Standard	ECN	VIP
Minimum Deposit	CNY 700	CNY 10,000	CNY 100,000
Spreads EUR/USD	0.1 pips	0.0 pips	0.0 pips
Spreads GBP/USD	0.2 pips	0.0 pips	0.0 pips
Spreads USD/JPY	0.3 pips	0.0 pips	0.0 pips
Commission	No	Yes	No
Maximum Leverage	1:500	1:500	1:500
Instruments	All	Forex, Commodities, Indices, Stocks	All
Execution Type	Market	ECN	Market
Account Manager	No	No	Yes
Priority Support	No	No	Yes

Negative Balance Protection

BOCOM claims to offer negative balance protection, a crucial safety feature that prevents traders from losing more than their deposited funds. This protection becomes especially important given the high leverage ratios available, where market movements can quickly exceed account equity. Negative balance protection works by automatically closing positions when account equity approaches zero, preventing debt to the broker. In volatile market conditions or during significant gaps, positions may close at levels that would typically result in negative balances. With this protection, any negative amount is absorbed by the broker rather than owed by the trader. However, given BOCOM's mixed regulatory status, the reliability and enforceability of this protection remain uncertain. Legitimate brokers with strong regulatory oversight guarantee this protection as part of their license requirements. The revoked license BGZ962 raises questions about whether such protections would be honoured during extreme market events. Traders should carefully review the terms and conditions regarding negative balance protection, particularly any exceptions or limitations. Some brokers exclude certain scenarios from protection, such as exceptional market events or positions held over weekends during significant news events.

BOCOM Deposits and Withdrawals

BOCOM provides multiple payment methods to accommodate different trader preferences and regional availability. The broker claims to process transactions efficiently, though actual experiences may vary given the regulatory concerns.

Deposit Methods

Method	Processing Time	Fees	Notes
Bank Wire Transfer	1–3 business days	None by BOCOM	Intermediary bank fees may apply
Credit/Debit Cards	Instant	None	Subject to card issuer limits
WeChat Pay	1–2 business days	None	Popular in Asian markets
Alipay	1–2 business days	None	Fast and convenient for China-based clients

Withdrawal Methods

Method	Processing Time	Fees	Notes
Bank Wire Transfer	1–3 business days	None by BOCOM	May incur intermediary bank fees
Credit/Debit Cards	3–5 business days	None	Processing delay due to banking systems
WeChat Pay	1–2 business days	None	Requires verified account
Alipay	1–2 business days	None	Fast, regional e-wallet

Support Service for Customer

BOCOM's customer support operates on a 24/5 schedule, aligning with global trading hours but notably excluding weekends when many retail traders are active. The multi-channel approach provides various contact options, though quality and responsiveness remain unverified.

1. Live Chat: The primary support channel offers real-time assistance for urgent queries. Response times and agent expertise levels are not specified, which are crucial factors for trader satisfaction.
2. Phone Support: Direct phone lines provide voice communication for complex issues or traders preferring verbal interaction. International toll charges may apply depending on trader location.
3. Email Support: Written communication suits non-urgent enquiries or issues requiring documentation. Response timeframes are not specified, potentially ranging from hours to days.

The absence of 24/7 support is concerning for a broker claiming to serve international markets across multiple time zones. Weekend gaps leave traders vulnerable during periods when positions remain open but support is unavailable.

Customer Support Comparison Table

Support Feature	Availability	Response Time	Languages
Live Chat	24/5	Not specified	Multiple claimed
Phone	Business hours	Immediate	Not specified
Email	24/7 submission	Not specified	English, Chinese likely
FAQ Section	Always available	N/A	Limited
Social Media	Limited presence	Variable	Not specified
Ticket System	Not mentioned	N/A	N/A

Prohibited Countries

BOCOM does not provide a comprehensive list of prohibited countries or regions, which represents a significant transparency issue. Legitimate brokers clearly state geographical restrictions due to regulatory requirements or business decisions.

The absence of this information suggests either poor compliance practices or intentional ambiguity to attract traders from restricted jurisdictions. Most regulated brokers prohibit services to residents of countries with strict regulations like the United States or sanctioned nations.

Without clear geographical restrictions, traders cannot determine whether they're legally permitted to use the services. This creates potential legal risks for clients who may unknowingly violate their local regulations by trading with an unauthorised broker.

Regions Where BOCOM Claims to Operate

• Asia-Pacific region (primary focus on Hong Kong and mainland China markets)
• No clear prohibited countries list provided
• US residents status is unclear
• European access not specified
• Sanctions compliance not addressed

Special Offers for Customers

Information about special offers, bonuses, or promotions from BOCOM is notably absent from available materials. This could indicate either a focus on core trading services or a lack of competitive marketing initiatives.

Modern brokers typically offer various incentives, including welcome bonuses, deposit matches, reduced spreads for volume traders, or loyalty programs. The absence of such programs might reflect regulatory restrictions, as some jurisdictions prohibit trading bonuses.

Without promotional offers, BOCOM must compete solely on trading conditions, platform quality, and service levels. Given the concerns about regulatory status and the competitive nature of the forex market, this absence of incentives may limit the broker's appeal to new traders.

Conclusion

After comprehensive analysis of BOCOM's offerings and operational structure, significant concerns emerge about the broker's legitimacy and safety for traders. The mixed regulatory status, with one SFC license revoked, represents a critical red flag that cannot be overlooked.

The broker's claimed establishment date of 1912 appears questionable when cross-referenced with available information about financial institutions in Hong Kong. The combination of extremely high leverage (1:500), minimal deposit requirements (CNY 700), and claims of zero spreads creates an offering that seems too good to be true in the regulated broker space.

While the platform selection of MT4 and MT5 is standard, and the range of tradable assets appears comprehensive, these positive aspects are overshadowed by regulatory concerns. The lack of transparency about company ownership, physical location, and regulatory history further compounds these concerns.

For traders considering BOCOM, extreme caution is advised. The revoked license suggests past regulatory violations, and the current operational status remains unclear. Alternative brokers with clean regulatory records and transparent operations would provide safer options for both new and experienced traders.

BOCOM FAQs