ADVFN UK Market News

Category: Forex

  • Orbex Shuts Down EU Operations, Surrenders CySEC License After 15 Years

    Orbex Shuts Down EU Operations, Surrenders CySEC License After 15 Years

    In a significant shift within the retail forex and CFD brokerage industry, Orbex Ltd, a long-standing player in the European financial markets, has officially ceased operations in the European Union and voluntarily surrendered its Cyprus Investment Firm (CIF) license issued by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC).

    The move marks the end of a 15-year chapter for Orbex in the EU, where it operated as a regulated broker offering contracts for difference (CFDs) and other trading services to retail clients across the bloc.

    A Quiet Exit from the EU Market

    Orbex’s EU website now displays a farewell message, stating that the final day of business was July 15, 2025. Clients were instructed to close all open positions and withdraw funds before the deadline. The company expressed gratitude to its European clients, saying:

    “After fifteen years in business, Orbex Ltd has decided to close our doors in the EU. We can’t fully express our deep gratitude for your business and support.”

    No official reason has been provided for the exit, although the move follows a broader trend of retail brokers withdrawing from the EU due to tightening regulations and operational constraints.

    From Regulated to Offshore

    Orbex had previously operated in the UK market by passporting its CySEC license, but exited following post-Brexit regulatory changes. The FCA register now confirms that Orbex can no longer conduct regulated business in the UK unless specific exclusions apply.

    Following its EU departure, Orbex has transitioned to operating exclusively from offshore jurisdictions, including Mauritius, Seychelles, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. These regions offer more flexible regulatory environments, allowing Orbex to continue serving retail clients globally.

    Orbex’s Global Strategy and Expansion

    Founded in 2010, Orbex built its reputation on providing multi-asset trading, advanced analytics, and educational resources for retail traders. The broker has consistently invested in technology, offering platforms like MetaTrader 4, and has focused on emerging markets in recent years.

    In 2023, Orbex acquired the retail business and client base of HonorFX, a move aimed at expanding its footprint in Asia and the Middle East. This acquisition signaled a strategic pivot toward regions with growing demand for online trading and fewer regulatory hurdles.

    Industry Context: A Broader Trend

    Orbex is not alone in its decision to exit the EU. Other major brokers such as BDSwiss and FXTM have also surrendered their CySEC licenses and moved offshore, citing similar challenges. The EU’s increasingly stringent compliance requirements, including MiFID II and SFDR regulations, have made it difficult for smaller brokers to maintain profitability while adhering to complex rules.

  • XTB Posts Strong Q2 2025 Profits Despite Flat Revenue, Driven by Record Trading Volumes and Client Growth

    XTB Posts Strong Q2 2025 Profits Despite Flat Revenue, Driven by Record Trading Volumes and Client Growth

    Leading retail forex and CFD broker XTB (WSE:XTB) has reported a robust second quarter for 2025, with net profits rising 11% year-over-year to $58 million, despite revenue remaining flat at $155 million. The company’s performance underscores its resilience amid fluctuating market conditions and continued expansion in client acquisition.

    Record Trading Volumes Fuel Profit Growth

    XTB’s Q2 trading volumes surged to an average of $382 billion per month, marking a 22% increase from Q1’s $313 billion. This growth came even as profitability per $1 million in transaction volume dipped from 144 to 128, reflecting tighter margins in a volatile market environment.

    The quarter began with heightened market activity, largely attributed to geopolitical tensions stemming from President Donald Trump’s trade war, which later subsided, allowing markets to stabilize.

    Client Base Expansion Hits New Highs

    XTB’s client acquisition strategy continues to pay dividends. In the first half of 2025, the broker added 361,643 new clients, a 55.7% increase compared to the same period last year. The number of active clients also soared by 69.9% year-over-year, reaching 853,938.

    CFDs on Indices Lead Revenue Generation

    In terms of asset classes, CFDs based on indices dominated XTB’s revenue structure, accounting for 46.3% of total revenue in H1 2025. This was driven by high profitability from instruments tied to the US 100, German DAX (DE40), and US 500 indices.

    Commodities-based CFDs followed, contributing 33.1% of revenue, with strong performance from trades involving gold, crude oil, natural gas, and coffee. Currency-based CFDs, including popular pairs like EUR/USD and Bitcoin, made up 15.6% of revenue, up from 10.3% the previous year.

    Cost Management Enhances Profitability

    XTB also reported a PLN 22.9 million reduction in operating expenses quarter-over-quarter, primarily due to a PLN 17.7 million cut in marketing costs. This strategic cost control helped bolster net profits despite flat revenue.

  • AETOS Capital Group Exits UK Market, Surrenders FCA Licence

    AETOS Capital Group Exits UK Market, Surrenders FCA Licence

    In a significant move reflecting broader industry trends, AETOS Capital Group, a global contracts for difference (CFD) broker, has officially relinquished its Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) licence, effectively ending its regulated operations in the United Kingdom.

    The decision, confirmed via the FCA’s public registry, indicates that AETOS UK has ceased all regulated activities and is in the process of winding down its UK business. The company cited “ceasing to trade” as the reason for the cancellation, a designation typically associated with administration, liquidation, or dissolution 

    UK Exit Follows Prolonged Inactivity

    AETOS’s UK entity had held its FCA licence since 2016 but had shown signs of declining activity in recent years. In the fiscal year 2024, the firm reported a turnover of £479,000, up from £399,000 the previous year. However, only £4,761 of that revenue came from brokerage commissions, with the bulk derived from management service fees 

    The company’s dwindling brokerage income and lack of new business appear to have prompted the strategic retreat. AETOS also filed a Solvency Statement with Companies House, a move often linked to capital restructuring or voluntary closure.

    Focus Shifts to Australia and Offshore Markets

    While AETOS is exiting the UK, it continues to operate under regulatory licences in Australia and Mauritius. Its Australian arm, AETOS Capital Group Pty Ltd, is regulated by ASIC, while its offshore operations are managed through AETOS Markets (M) Ltd, based in Mauritius 

    The group is ultimately controlled by Chinese entrepreneur Yongqiang Lu, and the brand remains active in Asia-Pacific and other emerging markets.

    Industry-Wide Trend of FCA Exits

    AETOS is not alone in its departure from the UK regulatory landscape. Several other CFD brokers, including ADSS, TrivePro, and ICM.com, have either exited the UK market or are in the process of surrendering their FCA licences. Many cite increased regulatory pressure and limited retail profitability as key factors behind their decisions 

    What This Means for Clients

    With the FCA licence now surrendered, AETOS can no longer offer regulated financial products or services in the UK. Clients are advised to contact the company directly for information regarding account closures or fund withdrawals.

  • Trading Goals: iFOREX Europe Joins Forces with Hungarian Football Giant

    Trading Goals: iFOREX Europe Joins Forces with Hungarian Football Giant

    In a bold move blending finance and football, iFOREX Europe has inked a jersey sponsorship deal with Ferencvárosi TC, Hungary’s most decorated football club and reigning national champions. The Cyprus-based trading platform will feature as the official back-of-shirt sponsor as Ferencváros gears up for its sixth consecutive European campaign this summer.

    “It’s a partnership built on shared values—resilience, preparation, and relentless ambition,” said iFOREX Group CEO Itai Sadeh, drawing parallels between elite athletes and successful traders.

    The deal was brokered by SPORTFIVE Hungary, whose CEO, András Igaz, emphasized that iFOREX’s involvement will go beyond branding, with plans for fan engagement and joint club activities.

    This latest alliance adds to iFOREX’s growing sports portfolio, which already includes sponsorships with PSV Eindhoven in the Netherlands and Lech Poznań in Poland.

    The announcement comes amid speculation around iFOREX’s delayed IPO plans on the London Stock Exchange, paused due to a compliance inspection in the British Virgin Islands.

    Looks like iFOREX is playing the long game—on and off the pitch.

    CFD brokers have been scoring big in the sports world lately.

  • Moneta Markets Launches Atlético de Madrid Sponsorship to Accelerate APAC Growth

    Moneta Markets Launches Atlético de Madrid Sponsorship to Accelerate APAC Growth

    Retail FX and CFDs broker Moneta Markets has announced a strategic partnership with LaLiga powerhouse Atlético de Madrid, becoming the club’s official online trading sponsor across the Asia-Pacific region.

    The collaboration marks another chapter in Atlético’s long-standing relationship with the trading sector, following previous deals with Plus500 and Hantec Markets. But for Moneta Markets, this move signals a bold expansion of its brand footprint in one of the world’s fastest-growing trading regions.

    “We are excited to partner with Atlético de Madrid, one of Europe’s most iconic and competitive clubs,” said David Bily, Founder and CEO of Moneta Markets. “This collaboration reflects more than just a shared commitment to leading—it’s about effort, strategy, and ensuring we deliver the best possible performance for our clients.”

    Founded in 2020 as a spin-off from Australian broker Vantage, Moneta Markets has quickly evolved from an offshore brand domiciled in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to a globally recognized trading platform. The company now holds a Financial Service Provider license in South Africa and operates primarily out of Dubai, under the leadership of Bily, Vantage’s former Chief Marketing Officer.

    Óscar Mayo, Atlético’s Chief Revenue and Operating Officer, welcomed the partnership, noting that Moneta’s “global mindset, innovative approach and pursuit of excellence reflect the values that define us both on and off the pitch.”

    The deal is expected to fuel Moneta’s visibility across APAC, blending the high-octane energy of elite football with the precision and potential of online trading.

  • Maria Sharapova Joins CFI as Global Brand Ambassador in Strategic Partnership

    Maria Sharapova Joins CFI as Global Brand Ambassador in Strategic Partnership

    In a bold move that blends sporting excellence with financial innovation, CFI Financial Group has announced tennis legend and entrepreneur Maria Sharapova as its new global brand ambassador. The multi-year partnership marks a significant milestone in CFI’s evolution as a purpose-driven trading platform with global reach.

    Sharapova, a five-time Grand Slam champion and Olympic medalist, joins CFI alongside Formula 1™ icon Lewis Hamilton, reinforcing the company’s commitment to aligning with figures who embody discipline, resilience, and international influence.

    “CFI’s focus on innovation, education, and empowering individuals resonated with me,” said Sharapova. “Whether in sport or business, success comes down to being intentional, prepared, and willing to learn. I’m proud to support CFI’s mission to inform, inspire, and connect with individuals pursuing their own paths to growth.”

    The announcement underscores CFI’s ambition to deepen its emotional connection with clients and inspire broader inclusion in the financial world. Sharapova’s multifaceted career—from elite athlete to investor and designer—mirrors the values CFI champions: precision, adaptability, and vision.

    Ziad Melhem, CEO of CFI Financial Group, praised the partnership: “Maria Sharapova is a symbol of elite performance and long-term vision. Her journey reflects the mindset we promote at CFI—where ambition, emotional intelligence, and adaptability are key traits of successful traders and investors.”

    Sharapova will spearhead high-impact campaigns and strategic appearances aimed at engaging global audiences. Her presence is expected to amplify CFI’s brand visibility and reinforce its position as a trusted provider of trading and investment solutions.

    The collaboration adds to CFI’s growing portfolio of high-profile partnerships, which includes AC Milan, FIBA WASL, and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi. #

    With Sharapova now on board, CFI continues to redefine the intersection of finance, sport, and global influence.

  • Exness Halts New Registrations in India Amid Regulatory Uncertainty

    Exness Halts New Registrations in India Amid Regulatory Uncertainty

    Global forex broker Exness has abruptly suspended new client registrations in India, sparking concern among traders and affiliate partners. The move, which took effect late last week, blocks access to account creation for users with Indian IP addresses. Visitors are now redirected to a simplified login page, with no option to sign up.

    The company has yet to issue a formal statement explaining the decision or clarifying whether the restriction is temporary. Affiliate partners were notified to cease all client acquisition efforts in India, further fueling speculation about the broker’s future in the region.

    Despite the registration freeze, existing Indian clients remain unaffected. Users with active accounts can continue trading without disruption, according to current access paths.

    India has long been a key growth market for offshore brokers like Exness, which operated locally through affiliates and introducing brokers. However, the country’s tightening regulatory landscape — including stricter oversight from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) — may be prompting a strategic retreat.

    As of now, Exness has not indicated whether similar restrictions will be applied in other jurisdictions. The situation remains fluid, with industry observers awaiting further updates.

  • eToro Secures MAS Licence, Launches Singapore Expansion

    eToro Secures MAS Licence, Launches Singapore Expansion

    Global trading platform eToro has officially entered the Singapore market following the approval and activation of its Capital Markets Services (CMS) licence by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). The move marks a significant milestone in the company’s Asia-Pacific growth strategy.

    The licence enables eligible retail investors in Singapore to access a wide array of financial instruments via eToro’s social investing platform, including stocks from over 20 global exchanges, ETFs, and derivatives.

    Yoni Assia, Co-Founder and CEO of eToro, hailed the development as a strategic leap: “Singapore is one of the most dynamic financial markets in Asia-Pacific and a gateway to global capital flows. By activating our CMS licence, we are advancing our mission to open the world’s markets and empower investors with the tools to grow their knowledge and wealth”.

    The expansion follows the appointment of Yaki Razmovich as Managing Director for Singapore and Asia. Razmovich will oversee regional operations and spearhead eToro’s efforts to build local partnerships and invest in talent.

    With over 40 million registered users globally, eToro continues to position itself as a leader in collaborative investing. The company’s platform allows users to interact, view portfolios, and access educational resources through features like the Virtual Portfolio and eToro Academy.

    This latest move underscores Singapore’s growing appeal as a fintech hub, even as regulators maintain strict oversight of financial services providers operating in the region.

  • Markets.com Surrenders FCA License as CEO Steps Down Amid Strategic Shift

    Markets.com Surrenders FCA License as CEO Steps Down Amid Strategic Shift

    Online brokerage Markets.com has officially relinquished its license from the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), marking a significant pivot in its regulatory and operational strategy. The move coincides with the departure of Chief Executive Officer Stavros Ch Anastasiou, who had led the firm since 2023.

    Anastasiou joined Markets.com from Safecap Investments Limited, where he served as Executive Director. His tenure at Markets.com was characterized by efforts to streamline operations and navigate evolving regulatory landscapes. The company has not yet announced a successor, and details surrounding its future leadership remain undisclosed.

    The decision to surrender the FCA license suggests a potential shift away from the UK market or a reconfiguration of the firm’s global compliance framework. Industry analysts speculate that Markets.com may be consolidating its regulatory footprint or redirecting resources toward jurisdictions with more flexible oversight.

    Finance Magnates, which first reported the development, noted that the company has yet to issue a formal statement regarding the rationale behind the license withdrawal or the CEO’s exit. The FCA has not commented on the matter.

    This development adds to a growing trend of brokers reassessing their regulatory affiliations amid tightening compliance requirements and shifting market dynamics. Observers will be watching closely to see how Markets.com repositions itself in the competitive online trading space.

    Markets.com is a global online brokerage offering CFD trading across forex, stocks, indices, commodities, and ETFs. Originally part of Playtech’s financial division, it now operates under the Finalto brand, which was acquired by Gopher Investments in 2022.

    The platform is known for its proprietary Marketsx interface, alongside support for MetaTrader 4 and 5, and integrates real-time sentiment tools, technical analysis, and fundamental data. It has held regulatory licenses in jurisdictions including Cyprus (CySEC), South Africa (FSCA), Australia (ASIC), and previously the UK (FCA), though it recently surrendered its FCA license amid strategic restructuring.

  • FXPrimus Unveils Synthetic Indices, Offering Traders a Headline-Free Market Experience

    FXPrimus Unveils Synthetic Indices, Offering Traders a Headline-Free Market Experience

    FXPrimus has launched a new suite of trading instruments known as Synthetic Indices, designed to operate independently of global news and economic events. This strategic move aims to attract technically focused and short-term traders seeking consistency in market behavior.

    The Synthetic Indices, now available on the MetaTrader 5 platform, simulate real market price movements using mathematical models and random number generators. Unlike traditional instruments, they are unaffected by central bank decisions, geopolitical tensions, or economic data releases.

    “Our goal is to empower traders with instruments that reward skill over speculation,” FXPrimus stated. “Synthetic Indices provide a focused space where the trader’s edge matters more than breaking news.”

    These indices offer 24/7 trading and are tailored for those who rely on pattern recognition and technical execution. The offering includes four distinct series, each engineered with specific volatility profiles to support both manual and automated strategies.

    The launch is part of FXPrimus’ broader platform expansion, which includes the introduction of PrimoConnect, a proprietary social trading network, alongside a redesigned website and updated client portal. The broker also announced plans to increase leverage up to 1:2000.

    FXPrimus emphasized that the Synthetic Indices are available to eligible clients under Primus Markets and represent an alternative to traditional markets for traders seeking uninterrupted price action.