Profile
This STForex review explores the broker’s regulatory framework, trading technology, market coverage, and client conditions. STForex (also known as STForex.com) is a Russian-based forex and CFD broker primarily targeting traders in the CIS region, offering MetaTrader 4 with high leverage and a localized trading experience.
Regulation and Safety
STForex is operated by ST Services Ltd and was formerly registered offshore in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. However, its regulatory footprint is limited, and it is not licensed by any Tier-1 financial authority such as the FCA, ASIC, or CySEC. The firm is registered in Russia and maintains compliance with local self-regulatory organizations like CRFIN, but these do not offer formal investor protection schemes.
Client funds are reportedly segregated, and the broker provides basic KYC protocols, but there is no negative balance protection or guaranteed compensation fund for international clients.
Execution Model and Trading Platforms
STForex uses a hybrid market maker/STP execution model. It supports the following platforms:
- MetaTrader 4 – desktop and mobile
- WebTrader – browser-based MT4 access
Features include full EA compatibility, hedging, and pending orders. The broker does not support MetaTrader 5, cTrader, or FIX API. There is no mention of VPS or latency optimization tools for algorithmic trading.
Markets and Instruments
STForex provides access to a limited range of CFD instruments:
- Forex – 40+ currency pairs (majors and minors)
- Metals – Gold and silver
- Indices – DAX, Dow Jones, S&P 500
- Stocks – CFDs on Russian and US equities
Cryptocurrencies and ETFs are not offered. All instruments are traded as CFDs with variable spreads and margin-based exposure.
Accounts, Spreads and Leverage
STForex offers the following account types:
- Standard: Spreads from 1.2 pips, no commission
- ECN: Spreads from 0.3 pips, $6 per lot commission
- Cent: For beginners, using cent-denominated balances
Leverage is offered up to 1:1000 depending on account type and balance. Minimum deposit starts from $10. The stop-out level is 20%, and swap-free accounts are not advertised.
Funding and Base Currencies
STForex accepts local and international funding methods:
- Bank cards – Visa, Mastercard
- Bank transfers
- QIWI, WebMoney, Yandex.Money (CIS-focused)
- Skrill, Neteller
Supported base currencies: USD, EUR, RUB. Deposits are processed instantly in most cases, and withdrawals typically take 1–3 business days. STForex does not charge internal fees, but third-party processing fees may apply.
Client Protections and Features
Client protection measures include:
- Segregated client accounts
- SSL encryption for secure transactions
- Two-step account verification (manual KYC)
However, there is no negative balance protection or participation in formal investor compensation schemes due to lack of Tier-1 regulation.
Institutional and Retail Offering
STForex is retail-focused and does not provide institutional-level services. It offers:
- PAMM account system
- Affiliate and IB programs
- Localized customer support in Russian
It does not offer FIX API, white-label services, or advanced liquidity solutions. Educational content and webinars are available on the Russian site.
Pros
- MetaTrader 4 supported on all devices
- High leverage up to 1:1000
- Low minimum deposit of $10
- Localized deposit options for CIS clients
- PAMM investment system available
Cons
- No Tier-1 regulatory oversight
- Limited asset offering (no crypto or ETFs)
- No MetaTrader 5 or FIX API
- Only suited for Russian-speaking traders
Frequently Asked Questions
Is STForex a regulated broker?
STForex is registered in Russia and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines but is not licensed by any Tier-1 regulator.
What platform does STForex use?
STForex supports MetaTrader 4 for desktop, web, and mobile trading.
What is the minimum deposit to start trading?
The minimum deposit starts from just $10 on the Cent account.
Does STForex support cryptocurrencies?
No, STForex does not currently offer crypto trading.
Is STForex suitable for institutional traders?
No, STForex is retail-oriented and does not offer institutional tools like FIX API or liquidity aggregation.