Customer account balances at Koala Securities are not insured under a deposit protection scheme.
Safety Measures:
Koala Securities implements robust security measures to safeguard client accounts and transactions. These include encrypted communication channels and secure login protocols to protect sensitive information. Multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of verification during login attempts, ensuring only authorized access.
What are Securities to Trade with Koala Securities？
Koala Securities offers a focused selection of tradable securities primarily encompassing Hong Kong stocks and US stocks. These markets provide investors with opportunities to trade shares of companies listed on major exchanges such as the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX) and prominent US exchanges like the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ.
Hong Kong Stocks: Investors can trade a wide range of stocks listed on the HKEX, spanning various sectors including finance, technology, healthcare, and consumer goods. These stocks offer exposure to the Hong Kong market and are subject to local regulatory oversight.
US Stocks: Koala Securities provides access to a wide array of US stocks, enabling investors to participate in one of the world's largest equity markets. Clients can trade shares of US companies across different industries, benefiting from the liquidity and depth of the US stock exchanges.
Koala Securities Accounts
Koala Securities provides Individual Account and Corporate Account:
Individual Account:
An individual account with Koala Securities is designed for personal investors looking to engage in securities trading independently. To open such an account, applicants need to submit a completed Account Opening Form, a copy of their Hong Kong Identity Card or Passport, proof of address issued within the last 3 months, and a copy of their bank account details. For those unable to visit in person, alternative authentication methods like verification by an authorized professional or issuing a certified cheque are available under SFC guidelines. This account type is ideal for individuals who manage their investments and trade securities on their own behalf.
Corporate Account:
A corporate account at Koala Securities is intended for businesses and corporate entities seeking to participate in securities trading. Opening this account requires a visit to their office to sign an Agreement and the submission of comprehensive supporting documents. These include signed identity cards of all account operators and guarantors, Certificate of Incorporation, recent proof of address, particulars of directors or specific forms, board resolutions, guarantee and address proofs of guarantors, Business Registration Certificate, financial statements, and Memorandum & Articles of Association.
Koala Securities Fees Review
Hong Kong Stocks Charges
Commission: Koala Securities offers negotiable commission rates for trading Hong Kong stocks.
Trading Fee: 0.00565% of the gross amount (rounded to the nearest cent).
SFC Transaction Levy: 0.0027% of the gross amount.
Investor Compensation Levy: 0.002% of the gross amount.
Stamp Duty: 0.10% of the gross amount (rounded up to the nearest dollar).
CCASS Fee: 0.002% of the gross amount (minimum charge HKD $2.00).
Transfer Deed Stamp Duty: HKD $5.00 per transfer form (applies to sellers and deposit of newly listed shares only).
AFRC Transaction Levy: 0.00015% of the gross amount (rounded to the nearest cent).
When comparing Koala Securities' Hong Kong stock trading fees with popular brokers, the commission rate of negotiable and a trading fee of 0.00565% of the gross amount are generally in the average range for Hong Kong stocks. The stamp duty of 0.10% is standard across brokers in Hong Kong. The AFRC transaction levy of 0.00015% is also typical for such fees. The CCASS fee of 0.002% with a minimum charge of HKD $2.00 is in line with industry norms.
US Stocks Charges
Brokerage Commission (NYSE, NASDAQ): 0.30% of transaction amount (below USD 15,000); 0.25% of transaction amount (USD 15,000 or above) or minimum USD 40 per order.
SEC Fees: Currently 0.00229% per sell trade, subject to change (starting from 23rd Feb 2023, adjusted to 0.0008% per sell trade).
Clearing Fees (NSCC/DTC): USD 0.0030 per share (minimum USD 0.50).
Transaction Activity Fee (FINRA): USD 0.000130 per share (applicable to sell orders only).
Koala Securities' US stock trading fees, such as the brokerage commission ranging from 0.25% to 0.30%, are relatively higher compared to some popular brokers who offer lower rates, particularly for transactions above USD 15,000. The SEC fee of 0.00229% is standard but will reduce to 0.0008% from February 2023 onwards, aligning more closely with industry benchmarks. The clearing fees and FINRA transaction activity fee are within the typical range observed among brokers.
Koala Securities offers margin financing to eligible clients at an interest rate of Prime + 7% per annum. This rate applies specifically to margin clients and may fluctuate based on changes in the Prime rate, providing leverage for trading while outlining associated borrowing costs clearly.
Koala Securities App Review
The GoTrade2 Trading app by Koala Securities offers a modern mobile trading experience with enhanced efficiency, convenience, and security.
Key features include real-time trading capabilities across multiple markets, customizable securities lists, and a streamlined interface for managing orders and positions.
Users can subscribe for new shares online, facilitate deposits and withdrawals through various methods including FPS and electronic banking, and enjoy a “Dark Mode” for comfortable low-light usage.
To download the app, users can visit the respective app store for their device platform (iOS or Android) and search for “GoTrade2 Trading,” then follow the installation instructions provided.
Customer Service
Koala Securities Limited offers customer support through various channels.
For general inquiries, customers can contact them at (852) 3700-7888 or email info@koalasecurities.com.hk. The Settlement Department handles specific queries and can be reached at (852) 3700-7838 or settlement@koalasecurities.com.hk.
Their office is located at Units 01-02, 13/F, Everbright Centre, 108 Gloucester Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Koala Securities, with its focus on Hong Kong and US stocks, offers a user-friendly mobile platform and competitive trading fees, particularly for transactions in Hong Kong. Regulated by the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC), the firm emphasizes robust security measures to protect client transactions. However, its limited range of tradable securities and relatively high margin interest rate may not appeal to investors seeking broad market diversification or lower borrowing costs.
The platform is suitable for individual investors and traders who prioritize accessibility, real-time market data, and regulatory compliance while primarily focusing on Hong Kong and US stock markets for their investment strategies.
FAQs
Owns 1 seat(s)
