Summary

TF International Securities Group Limited is a fully licensed, Hong Kong SFC-regulated brokerage firm serving only institutional and professional investors. Backed by Tianfeng Securities (601162.SH), it offers direct market access (DMA) to global exchanges, advanced trading platforms, and tailored financial solutions across equities, futures, fixed income, and asset management. With no support for retail clients, TFI focuses on high-net-worth individuals and institutions meeting strict onboarding criteria, emphasizing regulatory compliance, risk management, and professional service.

  • Top-tier Hong Kong SFC regulation ensuring maximum investor protection
  • Strong financial backing from publicly-traded parent company
  • Comprehensive service suite including brokerage, asset management, and corporate finance
  • Direct Market Access providing transparent, exchange-based execution
  • Institutional research delivering professional-grade market analysis
  • Prime location in Hong Kong's International Commerce Centre
  • Multi-asset capabilities across equities, futures, options, and fixed income
  • Professional relationship management with dedicated support teams
  • Advanced trading technology including API access and algorithmic capabilities
  • Established market position with strong presence in Greater China markets
  • Inaccessible to retail traders with an HK$8 million minimum requirement
  • Complex onboarding involving extensive documentation and manual processes
  • No fee transparency with all terms subject to negotiation
  • Limited geographic coverage focused primarily on the Asia-Pacific region
  • No online account opening requiring direct contact and manual processing
  • Business hours support only without 24/7 retail-style assistance
  • No negative balance protection with full liability for trading losses
  • Exclusive wire transfer funding without convenient e-wallet options
  • No mobile-first experience with platforms designed for desktop professionals
  • Potential name confusion with unregulated entities using similar branding

Overview

TF International Securities Group Limited stands as a distinguished financial institution in Hong Kong's competitive landscape, operating as a core subsidiary of Tianfeng Securities Co., Ltd. (SSE Stock Code: 601162.SH), one of China's major publicly listed securities firms. Established in 2016, this institutional-focused brokerage has built its reputation on a foundation of comprehensive regulatory compliance, sophisticated trading infrastructure, and deep market access across Greater China and global markets.

TF International Securities overview

Located at the prestigious International Commerce Centre in Kowloon, TF International Securities Group distinguishes itself through its multi-license structure under the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC), offering a complete suite of financial services including securities dealing, futures contracts, asset management, and corporate finance advisory. Unlike retail-orientated brokers, TFI exclusively caters to institutional investors, corporations, and high-net-worth individuals who meet Hong Kong's Professional Investor criteria.

The group's unique position as a subsidiary of a major Chinese securities firm provides substantial capital backing and extensive resources, enabling it to offer direct market access to Hong Kong stocks, China A-Shares through Stock Connect programs, and global markets. With its proprietary TFI Pro trading platform and dedicated relationship management model, the firm delivers professional-grade solutions tailored to sophisticated investors' complex needs.

Overview Table

Feature Details
Full Group Name TF International Securities Group Limited
Parent Company Tianfeng Securities Co., Ltd. (601162.SH)
Headquarters 18/F, International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Primary Regulator Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC)
Group CE Number BOK471
Year Established Mid-2010s (Hong Kong presence)
Official Website https://www.tfisec.com/
Client Portal https://sf.tfisec.com/
Client Focus Institutional, Corporate, High-Net-Worth Individuals
Primary Markets Hong Kong, Mainland China, Global Professional Investors

Facts List

  1. Parent Company Strength: Backed by Tianfeng Securities Co., Ltd., a publicly-traded Chinese securities firm listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange
  2. Multiple SFC Licenses: Holds comprehensive Type 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, and 9 licenses covering all major financial services
  3. Prime Location: Offices in the International Commerce Centre, one of Hong Kong's most prestigious business addresses
  4. Professional Focus: Exclusively serves institutional, corporate, and high-net-worth clients with portfolios exceeding HK$8 million
  5. Direct Market Access: Provides DMA to major exchanges including HKEX, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and global markets
  6. Proprietary Technology: Offers TFI Pro platform with advanced trading capabilities and API access for algorithmic trading
  7. Segregated Operations: Three specialised subsidiaries handle different aspects of financial services to ensure compliance
  8. Research Division: Maintains dedicated institutional research team producing in-depth market analysis
  9. Relationship Banking: Assigns dedicated relationship managers to each client for personalised service
  10. China Connect Access: Registered participant in Stock Connect programs for mainland Chinese securities trading

TFI Licenses and Regulatory

TF International Securities Group's regulatory framework represents institutional-grade oversight in Asian financial services. Operating under Hong Kong SFC supervision, the group maintains multiple licenses through specialized subsidiaries, ensuring proper oversight and minimizing conflicts of interest.

The Hong Kong SFC ranks as a Tier-1 global financial regulator, implementing standards comparable to London and New York. This provides comprehensive investor protection, strict capital adequacy requirements, and regular audits. The SFC mandates stringent client asset segregation, ensuring customer funds remain protected even in adverse scenarios.

TFI's compliance extends beyond basic licensing to include adherence to international sanctions regimes from OFAC, United Nations, and European Union. This comprehensive approach ensures institutional clients can conduct business confidently, knowing their broker maintains impeccable regulatory standards across jurisdictions.

Regulatory Licenses:

  • TFI Securities and Futures Limited (CE No. BAV573): Type 1, 2, 4 licenses
  • TFI Asset Management Limited (CE No. ASF056): Type 4, 5, 9 licenses
  • TFI Capital Limited (CE No. BPW736): Type 6 license
  • Group Central Entity Number: BOK471
  • Client Asset Protection: Segregated accounts per SFC requirements

Trading Instruments

TF International Securities Group offers institutional-grade access to a comprehensive range of financial instruments, reflecting its position as a full-service investment house. Unlike retail CFD brokers that offer synthetic products, TFI provides direct market access to actual securities and derivatives, ensuring transparent pricing and genuine market participation.

Service Description
Equities Direct access to Hong Kong-listed securities via HKEX (board lots & odd lots). China Connect programs (Shanghai-Hong Kong & Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect) for trading eligible A-shares. Access to U.S. & global equities.
Futures & Options Professional access to global derivative markets: index, commodity & currency futures on HKEX, CME, SGX, etc. Institutional focus with strategies like spread trading, arbitrage & complex options structures.
Fixed Income Access to government bonds, corporate bonds & other debt instruments. Tailored for institutional clients managing liabilities or seeking stable income. Special expertise in Asian fixed income markets.
Corporate Finance Services via TFI Capital Limited: IPOs, secondary offerings, private placements & M&A advisory. End-to-end support for corporate transactions.
Asset Management TFI Asset Management Limited provides discretionary portfolio management & advisory. Includes managed funds, structured products & customised strategies for institutional & high-net-worth clients.

Trading Platforms

TFI's technology infrastructure emphasizes professional-grade tools and direct market connectivity designed for sophisticated participants. The proprietary TFI Pro platform provides real-time data feeds, advanced order types, and sophisticated risk management tools with direct exchange connectivity.

API connectivity supports FIX protocol and industry-standard interfaces, enabling algorithmic strategies and system integration. Voice brokerage services offer assisted execution through experienced dealers familiar with complex orders and market nuances. The platform suite includes comprehensive market data services, historical analytics, and institutional research access.

Trading Platform Comparison Table

Feature TFI Pro API Trading Voice Desk Mobile Access
Asset Coverage Full Full Full Limited
Real-Time Data Yes Yes Yes Basic
Advanced Orders Yes Yes Yes No
Algorithmic Trading Yes Yes No No
Research Access Yes Limited Yes No
Risk Analytics Yes Yes Yes No
Multi-Currency Yes Yes Yes Yes
Availability Market Hours Market Hours Business Hours 24/7

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

  1. Initial Consultation: Contact TFI's business development team via cs@tfisec.com or phone to verify Professional Investor eligibility (HK$8 million minimum portfolio)
  2. Documentation Submission: Provide passport/Hong Kong ID, proof of address (within 3 months), bank statements demonstrating portfolio value, investment experience evidence, source of wealth declarations
  3. Due Diligence Process: Undergo KYC/AML checks lasting 5-10 business days including background verification and sanctions screening
  4. Account Approval: Review and execute client agreements, fee schedules, and trading terms with potential negotiation of commercial conditions
  5. Account Funding: Transfer initial capital via bank wire from account in client's name following provided instructions

Charts and Analysis

TF International Securities Group's approach to market analysis and educational resources reflects its institutional focus, providing professional-grade tools and insights typically reserved for major investment banks' clients. The firm's analytical capabilities span both technical and fundamental analysis, supported by a dedicated research division.

Service Description
Technical Analysis Tools TFI Pro platform offers professional charting with multiple chart types (candlestick, bar, line, Renko, Point & Figure) and 100+ technical indicators. Includes drawing tools (Fibonacci, Elliott Wave, trend lines), multi-timeframe analysis, backtesting, and real-time alerts.
Institutional Research Provides institutional-grade research across asset classes and regions. Includes equity research (financial modeling, industry analysis, investment recommendations), macro research (economic trends, policy, thematic opportunities), and publications like daily commentaries and special reports.
Market Intelligence Real-time news feeds, economic calendars, and sentiment indicators aggregated from multiple sources. Equips clients with comprehensive market data to support informed and timely decisions.

TFI Account Types

TFI's account structure provides bespoke solutions rather than predetermined tiers. Corporate accounts accommodate treasury management and hedging with multiple authorized traders and customized credit facilities. Institutional accounts offer prime brokerage services, custody solutions, and advanced execution capabilities with favorable volume-based pricing.

High-net-worth individual accounts require HK$8 million minimum portfolios and include dedicated relationship management, research access, and institutional-quality services.

Account Types Comparison Table

Feature Corporate Institutional HNWI Professional
Minimum Portfolio Negotiable Negotiable HK$8 million
Dedicated RM Yes Yes Yes
Research Access Full Full Full
Platform Options All All TFI Pro + Limited
Credit Facilities Yes Yes Case-by-case
Fee Structure Negotiated Volume-based Tiered
API Access Yes Yes On request
Prime Services Limited Full No
Custody Options Yes Yes Standard

Negative Balance Protection

TF International Securities does not offer retail-style negative balance protection. As a professional-focused broker, clients bear full responsibility for positions moving adversely, including obligations exceeding account balances. This reflects institutional market standards where professional investors are expected to manage leverage risks independently. The firm implements institutional risk management protocols including real-time monitoring, margin calls, and forced liquidation procedures. However, during extreme volatility or gap movements, positions may result in negative balances for which clients remain fully liable.

TFI Deposits and Withdrawals

The funding mechanisms at TF International Securities Group reflect institutional best practices, prioritising security, auditability, and regulatory compliance over convenience features common in retail brokerage. All transactions follow strict protocols designed to prevent money laundering and ensure clear audit trails.

Deposit Methods
Feature Details
Method Bank wire transfer only (no third-party or cash deposits).
Account Requirement Transfers must originate from a bank account in the client’s name, matching their TFI trading account registration.
Supported Currencies HKD and USD (primary); other major currencies available by arrangement.
Currency Conversion At institutional rates, typically more favorable than retail banking rates.
Processing Time Same-day for Hong Kong banks; 1–3 business days for international transfers
Withdrawal Procedures
Feature Details
Method Bank wire transfer only to the originating bank account or a pre-verified account in the client’s name.
Cut-off Time Requests submitted before 3:00 PM HKT process same-day for Hong Kong banks.
Processing Time Same-day (HK banks); 2–5 business days (international withdrawals).
Fees No TFI withdrawal fees for standard processing. Clients pay any correspondent bank charges or currency conversion costs.
Expedited Withdrawals Available for urgent needs, subject to additional fees and compliance checks.

Support Service for Customer

Customer support follows an institutional relationship management model with dedicated managers assigned to each client. This ensures consistent, informed assistance from professionals understanding specific client needs and strategies. Support channels include direct phone lines, email via cs@tfisec.com, and in-person meetings at their ICC offices. TF International Securities contact us

Customer Support Availability Table

Support Feature Availability Response Time Languages
Relationship Manager Business Hours Immediate English, Chinese, Mandarin
Phone Support 9 AM - 6 PM HKT < 1 minute English, Chinese, Mandarin
Email Support 24/7 Submission < 4 hours English, Chinese
Technical Support Business Hours < 30 minutes English, Chinese
In-Person Meetings By Appointment Scheduled English, Chinese, Mandarin
Emergency Support 24/7 < 15 minutes English, Chinese
Research Queries Business Hours < 2 hours English, Chinese
Operations Support Business Hours < 1 hour English, Chinese

Prohibited Countries

TFI cannot serve individuals from countries under comprehensive sanctions including North Korea, Iran, Syria, and Cuba. The firm screens against OFAC, UN, and EU sanctions lists. Retail solicitation restrictions apply to EU member states, Australia, Canada, and United States for retail clients, though institutional investors from most jurisdictions may establish relationships if meeting professional criteria.

Special Offers for Customers

TF International Securities maintains institutional market standards by avoiding promotional campaigns and deposit bonuses typical of retail brokers. Value propositions center on institutional pricing based on volume, exclusive research access, customized technology solutions, and potential credit facilities for qualified clients.

Conclusion

After conducting this comprehensive analysis of TF International Securities Group Limited, I can confidently state that they represent a legitimate, highly regulated financial institution operating at the apex of Hong Kong's financial services sector. Their position as a subsidiary of Tianfeng Securities, combined with comprehensive SFC licensing, places them among the most credible brokers in the Asia-Pacific region.

Throughout this review, I've examined every aspect of their operations, from regulatory compliance to trading platforms, and the picture that emerges is one of uncompromising professionalism. They've built their business model around serving sophisticated investors who demand institutional-grade services, direct market access, and professional support. This focus permeates every aspect of their operations, from the manual account opening process to the absence of retail-orientated features.

What stands out most prominently is their regulatory foundation. In the wake of numerous brokerage failures and frauds, they maintain multiple licenses across different business lines, ensuring proper oversight and segregation of activities. The Hong Kong SFC's strict supervision provides clients with confidence that their assets remain protected under one of Asia's most robust regulatory frameworks.

However, I must emphasise that they are categorically unsuitable for retail traders. The HK$8 million minimum portfolio requirement, complex onboarding process, and institutional focus create insurmountable barriers for average investors. Those seeking user-friendly platforms, educational resources for beginners, or low minimum deposits should look elsewhere.

The critical risk for potential clients remains the potential confusion with unregulated entities using similar names. The existence of "TFI Markets LTD" and potentially other copycats means verification of regulatory credentials becomes paramount. Always confirm you're dealing with the Hong Kong-regulated entity holding the CE numbers specified in this review.

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TFI FAQs

Is TF International Securities Group a regulated broker?

Yes. TFI is fully regulated by the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) with multiple licenses (Type 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 9), ensuring robust oversight and investor protection.

Can retail traders open an account with TFI?

No. TFI only accepts professional investors, institutional clients, and high-net-worth individuals with portfolios exceeding HK$8 million. It is not suitable for retail traders.

What trading platforms does TFI offer?

TFI provides its proprietary TFI Pro platform, API connectivity for algorithmic trading, and voice desk support. A limited mobile app is available for basic functions.

Does TFI offer negative balance protection?

No. As a professional broker, TFI does not offer retail-style negative balance protection. Clients are fully liable for all trading losses, including those exceeding deposits.

How can I verify that I'm dealing with the legitimate TFI?

Always ensure you are communicating with TF International Securities Group Limited, CE number BOK471, via their official website www.tfisec.com. Beware of imposters like “TFI Markets LTD.”

About the Author

Arash Doostelahi

Arash Doostelahi

Arash Doostelahi is a dynamic content writer and online course creator based in Tehran, Iran, with expertise in content strategy, instructional design, and digital storytelling. Leveraging a blend of creativity and technical skills, Arash delivers...