Profile
Sway Markets was a short‑lived offshore CFD and forex broker operating from 2022 until it ceased all operations on **February 7, 2025** at 5 PM EST. Registered in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, the firm offered trading via MetaTrader 5 with high leverage and low minimum deposits. This Sway Markets review provides a historical perspective and details its regulatory shortcomings and operational termination. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Regulation and Security
Sway Markets claimed registration in SVG and asserted an AR license under ASIC, though no evidence substantiates that claim. It was **not regulated** by credible authorities such as the UK’s FCA, Australian ASIC, or CySEC. Traders had no access to client asset segregation, compensation schemes, or negative balance protection. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Execution Model
The broker offered trading via **MetaTrader 5**, with variable spreads starting low. However execution quality, liquidity providers, and order routing were never independently verified. Platform behaviour suggested a **market‑maker model**, raising potential conflict‑of‑interest concerns. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Trading Platforms
Sway Markets supported **MT5** across desktop, web, and mobile. No proprietary platforms, APIs, or advanced tools were offered. There’s no evidence of separate platforms like cTrader or custom offerings. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Supported Markets
The firm provided CFDs on forex pairs, commodities, indices, equities, and cryptocurrencies. Its product range was broad but offered only via derivative instruments, not physical assets. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Account Types and Trading Conditions
Sway Markets featured a minimum deposit of **$10**, high leverage up to **1:500**, and variable spreads. Commission structures were opaque, and costs were reportedly higher than industry norms. Withdrawal processes were often delayed, particularly for non-USDT methods. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Retail and Institutional Features
The broker targeted **retail traders**, particularly beginners. It did not offer institutional tools such as FIX API, MAM/PAMM accounts, or liquidity services. There was no white‑label or institutional capacity. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Client Protection and Transparency
Sway Markets lacked regulatory oversight, with **no segregation of client funds**, **no compensation fund**, and **no audit or transparency reporting**. The broker’s inclusion on the CFTC RED list in May 2025 confirms unregistered offering to US clients. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Closure of Operations
On **February 7, 2025**, Sway Markets announced it would suspend all brokerage operations. Its infrastructure and branding were dismantled, social media accounts wiped, and clients were advised to migrate to **Liquid Brokers**, which inherited certain functions under Pulse Markets Pty Ltd. The crypto‑funded prop firm **Sway Funded**, however, continues to operate independently. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Very low minimum deposit ($10)
- Access to MT5 platform
- High maximum leverage up to 1:500
- Cons:
- Unregulated by any major authority
- Ceased operations in February 2025
- High reported withdrawal delays and poor support
- No client fund protection or transparency
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sway Markets regulated?
No. Sway Markets held no credible license from ASIC, FCA, CySEC, or other major jurisdictions. Its SVG registration provided no real oversight. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Why did Sway Markets shut down?
The broker ceased generic brokerage operations on **February 7, 2025**, reportedly due to regulatory and liquidity challenges. Its services were transferred to Liquid Brokers. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Can I still trade with Sway Funded?
Yes, **Sway Funded**, the prop trading arm, continues separately with challenge-based evaluation and payout services. Existing traders remain unaffected. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
What happened to client funds when Sway Markets closed?
Withdrawal requests were reportedly delayed, and clients experienced difficulties retrieving funds. Given the lack of regulation or compensation mechanisms, fund recovery remains uncertain. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
Is it safe to use Liquid Brokers now?
Liquid Brokers operates under Pulse Markets Pty Ltd and an AFSL license, but offers services only to wholesale clients. Retail users should verify eligibility and regulation before engaging. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
