Forex Hub: For complete regulation updates, local bank/GCash guidelines, and broker reviews, see our master guide: Forex Trading Philippines: Regulation & Broker Reviews.
FBS is a globally active broker that has built a solid following in the Philippines, particularly because of its Cent account options and high leverage ratios. But does it provide a reliable trading environment? In this review, we examine FBS's specifications, deposit channels, regulatory compliance, and risks.
We will analyze their account types and see if FBS is the right choice for your trading needs.
Quick Verdict: Is FBS Safe and Legal in the Philippines?
- Our Rating: 4.4 / 5
- Minimum Deposit: $1 (approx. ₱56)
- GCash Supported: Yes (via online payment options)
- Legal Status: Offshore (Accessible, CySEC and ASIC regulated globally, but not licensed by local SEC)
FBS is legal for Filipinos to use. It holds no license from the SEC Philippines or BSP. FBS is regulated globally by CySEC in Europe and ASIC in Australia, which gives it solid corporate credibility. However, non-EU clients trade under their offshore entity (FSC Belize), which means local investor protection programs do not apply to your account.
Pros and Cons for Filipino Traders
Pros
- Cent account allows trading with micro amounts (from $1 minimum deposit).
- Supports GCash and direct online banking for major Philippine banks.
- High leverage options up to 1:3000 for experienced traders.
- Good selection of educational guides and daily market analysis.
Cons
- Spreads on standard accounts can widen significantly during news releases.
- FSC Belize regulation for non-EU accounts offers limited consumer protection.
- Focuses on CFD and Forex only (no binary fixed payout options).
Account Types & Platform Specifications
FBS offers a wide range of account types designed for different trading strategies and experience levels:
Cent Account
Uses cents instead of dollars, making it perfect for beginners to practice under live conditions.
Standard Account
The standard trading account for experienced retail traders, with zero commissions.
Micro Account
Features fixed spreads to keep trade planning stable and predictable.
Zero Spread Account
Offers absolute zero spread with a fixed volume-based commission charge.
ECN Account
Direct market access with floating spreads and low volume commissions.
FBS supports MT4 and MT5, along with their proprietary FBS Trader mobile app.

FBS mobile app and MT5 desktop trading dashboard
Demo Account Features
FBS provides free demo accounts on MT4 and MT5. We recommend starting with a Cent demo to practice trading micro lots.
Local Payment Methods: GCash, Cards & Crypto
FBS has good payment integration for the Philippine market:
- GCash: Supported through online payment systems for instant deposits and withdrawals within 24 hours.
- Local Bank Transfers: Supports direct deposits and withdrawals from BDO, BPI, Metrobank, and UnionBank.
- E-Wallets: Supports Neteller, Skrill, and Perfect Money.
- Cryptocurrency: Accepts Bitcoin (BTC) and Tether (USDT).
Note: KYC account verification is required. You must submit a government-issued ID (Passport, UMID, or Driver's License) to process withdrawals.
Regulatory Status & SEC Warnings
FBS is operated by Tradestone Ltd, regulated by CySEC in Cyprus, and Intelligent Financial Markets Pty Ltd, regulated by ASIC in Australia. Non-EU/non-Australian clients are managed under FBS Markets Inc, regulated by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) of Belize.
It does not hold a license from the local SEC. Filipino residents must report any profits generated from offshore accounts as foreign-sourced income when filing taxes with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).
Risk Warning & Jason's Advice
CFD trading involves high risk, especially when combined with high leverage.
My ex-prop trader advice for FBS:
- Use the Cent Account First: If you are a beginner, do not start with the Standard account. Use the Cent account first. It allows you to practice with real money (from $1) under real market conditions, but with a fraction of the financial risk.
- Avoid 1:3000 Leverage: FBS offers leverage up to 1:3000. This is an extreme level. A tiny market move against you can instantly blow your entire account. Keep your leverage set to a maximum of 1:100 or 1:200.
- Watch the Spreads: Floating spreads on the Standard account can widen significantly during quiet trading hours or high-impact news releases. Avoid trading during these times to keep transaction costs down.
FAQs
Is FBS legal in the Philippines?
Yes, it is legal to register and trade. However, it operates offshore and does not hold a license from the SEC.
Can I deposit on FBS using GCash?
Yes, FBS supports deposits and withdrawals via GCash through integrated local payment gateways.
What is the minimum deposit for FBS in PH?
The minimum deposit for standard accounts starts from $1 (approx. ₱56 depending on the current exchange rate).
Our FBS Rating Breakdown
Overall Rating
| Min. Deposit | $1 |
| Pricing Model | Spreads from 0.0 pips |
| Demo Account | ✓ Free |
| Mobile App | ✓ iOS & Android |
| Withdrawal | 1-2 business days |
| Registered In | Belize |
| Regions | Philippines, Asia +more |
- Cent account allows trading with micro amounts (from $1)
- Supports GCash and local Philippines bank deposits
