INTRODUCTION
1.1. ‘Sonaf Business Ltd’, is a Cyprus Investment Firm incorporated under the laws of Cyprus,
which has its principal place of business at 133, Makarios III Avenue, Classic House, 1st Floor,
CY-3085 Limassol, and registered with the Registrar of Companies in Nicosia under number: ΗΕ
301937 (the “Company”). The Company is regulated as a Cyprus Investment Firm (‘CIF’) by the
Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (‘CySEC’) under license number 174/12.
1.2. The Company is operating under Directive 2014/65/EU of the European Parliament and of the
Council of 15 May 2014 on Markets in financial instruments and amending Directive 2002/92/EC
and Directive 2011/61/EU (the “Markets in Financial Instruments Directive 2014/65/EU)” or
“MiFID II”) and amending Directive 2002/92/EC and Directive 2011/61/EU, as last amended by
Directive (EU) 2016/1034 of the European Parliament and of the Council, of 23 June 2016 and
under Regulation (EU) No 600/2014 of the European Parliament and the Council of 15 May 2014
on markets in financial instruments and amending Regulation (EU) No 648/2012 (the “MiFIR”)
which was implemented in Cyprus by the Investment Services and Activities and Regulated
Markets Law of 2017 (Law 87(Ι)/2017), which provide for the provision of Investment Services, the
exercise of Investment Activities, the operation of Regulated Markets and other related matters
(the “Investment Services and Activities and Regulated Markets Law”), as the same may be
modified and amended from time to time.
1.3. This notice is provided to you in accordance with the above-mentioned “Markets in Financial
Instruments Legislation”, because you are considering dealing with the Company in certain
financial instruments provided by the Company (“Financial Instruments”).
1.4. The Financial Instruments, in respect of which the Company is entitled to provide Investment
Services (as defined hereinafter) to you under its ‘CySEC’ license, include the following:
a. Transferable securities.
b. Money-market instruments.
c. Units in collective investment undertakings.
d. Options, futures, swaps, forward rate agreements and any other derivative contracts
relating to securities, currencies, interest rates or yields, or other derivatives
instruments, financial indices or financial measures which may be settled physically
or in cash.
e. Options, futures, swaps, forward rate agreements and any other derivative contracts
relating to commodities that must be settled in cash or may be settled in cash at the
option of one of the parties (otherwise than by reason of a default or other
termination event).
f. Options, futures, swaps, and any other derivative contract relating to commodities
that can be physically settled provided that they are traded on a regulated market
or/and an MTF.
g. Options, futures, swaps, forwards and any other derivative contracts relating to
commodities, that can be physically settled and not being for commercial purposes,
which have the characteristics of other derivative financial instruments, having
regard to whether, inter alia, they are cleared and settled through recognised
clearing houses or are subject to regular margin calls.
h. Derivative instruments for the transfer of credit risk.
i. Financial contracts for differences.
j. Options, futures, swaps, forward rate agreements and any other derivative contracts
relating to climatic variables, freight rates, emission allowances or inflation rates or
other official economic statistics that must be settled in cash or may be settled in cash at
the option of one of the parties (otherwise than by reason of a default or other
termination event), as well as any other derivative contract relating to assets, rights,
obligations, indices and measures not otherwise mentioned in this Part, which have the
characteristics of other derivative financial instruments, having regard to whether, inter
alia, they are traded on a regulated market or an MTF, are cleared and settled through
recognised clearing houses or are subject to regular margin calls.
1.5. The investment and ancillary services, which the Company is entitled to provide to you under
its CySEC license, in respect of the Financial Instruments referred to hereinabove (“Investment
Services”), include the following:
Investment Services
a. Reception and transmission of orders in relation to one or more Financial Instruments.
b. Execution of orders on behalf of clients.
c. Portfolio Management
Ancillary Services
d. Safekeeping and administration of Financial Instruments for the account of clients,
including custodianship and related services such as cash/collateral management.
e. Foreign exchange services where these are connected to the provision of
investment services.
f. Investment research and financial analysis or other forms of general
recommendation relating to transactions in Financial Instruments.
1.6. This notice is for use by clients of the Company (and its direct or indirect subsidiaries and
affiliates, all such companies being referred to collectively or, as the context may require,
individually, as the Company) and must not be relied on by anyone else. It cannot disclose all
the risks and other significant aspects of the Financial Instruments you may purchase, sell or
subscribe for from or through the Company, but is intended to give you information on and a
warning of the risks associated with them so that you are reasonably able to understand the
nature and risks of the services and of the specific types of investment being offered and,
consequently, to take investment decisions on an informed basis. You should also read any
product/transaction specific disclosures that may be included in any product/transaction
specific documentation provided to you.
1.7. You must not rely on the guidance contained in this notice as investment advice based on your
personal circumstances, nor as a recommendation to enter into any of the services or invest in
any of the Financial Instruments listed below. Where you are unclear as to the meaning of any
of the disclosures or warnings described below, we would strongly recommend that you seek
independent legal or financial advice.
1.8. You should not deal in these or any other Financial Instruments unless you understand the
nature of the contract you are entering into and the extent of your exposure to risk. You
should also be satisfied that the Financial Instrument and/or service is suitable for you in light
of your circumstances and financial position and, where necessary, you should seek
appropriate independent advice in advance of any investment decisions.
1.9. Risk factors may occur simultaneously and/or may compound each other resulting in an
unpredictable effect on the value of any investment. In any of the situations described below,
the use of leverage (which has the effect of magnifying potential positive or negative
outcomes) may significantly increase the impact on you of any of the risks described.
1.10. The Company will not be liable for any margin call or losses that the Client may suffer,
including but not limited to losses due to Stop-out Level, if the trading benefit is withdrawn for
any reason pursuant to the applicable “Client Agreement - Terms and Conditions of Business”.
The Company ensures that losses will never exceed the total available funds across the Clients’
trading portfolio (negative balance protection).
In addition, the client accepts that the Company reserves the right to immediately terminate
the client’s access to the trading platform(s) and recover any losses caused by the client, in the
event that the Firm determines, at its sole discretion, that the client voluntarily and/or
involuntarily abuses the ‘Negative Balance Protection’ offered by the Company, by way of, but
not limited to, hedging his/her exposure using his/her trading accounts, whether under the
same profile or in connection with another client(s); and/or requesting a withdrawal of funds,
notwithstanding any of the provisions of this Agreement, during a specific timeframe, in
accordance with Termination clauses of Client Agreement - Terms and Conditions of Business
(CHAPTER N: TERMINATION OF CLIENT RELATIONSHIP AND LIQUIDATION OF ACCOUNTS ).
All Financial Instruments carry a certain degree of risk and even low risk investment strategies
contain an element of uncertainty. The types of risk that might be of concern will depend on
various matters, including how the instrument is created, structured or drafted. The specific
risks of a particular Financial Instrument or transaction will depend upon the terms of the
Financial Instrument or transaction and the particular circumstances of, and relationships
between, the relevant parties involved in such Financial Instrument or transaction. Different
instruments involve different levels of exposure to risk and in deciding whether to trade in
such instruments or become involved in any Financial Instruments, you should be aware of the
guidance set out below.
2. PRODUCTS AND INVESTMENTS
2.1. Set out below is an outline of the major categories of risk that may be associated with certain
generic types of Financial Instruments, which should be read in conjunction with Parts III and
IV below.
A. SHARES AND OTHER TYPES OF EQUITY INSTRUMENTS
a. General
2.1.1. A risk with an equity investment is that the company must both grow in value and,
if it elects to pay dividends to its shareholders, make adequate dividend payments,
or the share price may fall. If the share price falls, the company, if listed or traded
on-exchange, may then find it difficult to raise further capital to finance the
business, and the company’s performance may deteriorate vis-à-vis its
competitors, leading to further reductions in the share price. Ultimately the
company may become vulnerable to a takeover or may fail.
2.1.2. Shares have exposure to all the major risk types referred to in Section 3 below. In
addition, there is a risk that there could be volatility or problems in the sector that
the company is in. If the Company is private, i.e. not listed or traded on an
exchange, or is listed but only traded infrequently, there may also be liquidity risk,
whereby shares could become very difficult to dispose of.
b. Ordinary shares
2.1.3. Ordinary shares are issued by limited liability companies as the primary means of
raising risk capital. The issuer has no obligation to repay the original cost of the
share, or the capital, to the shareholder until the issuer is wound up (in other
words, the issuer company ceases to exist). In return for the capital investment in
the share, the issuer may make discretionary dividend payments to shareholders,
which could take the form of cash or additional shares.
2.1.4. Ordinary shares usually carry a right to vote at general meetings of the issuer. There is
no guaranteed return on an investment in ordinary shares for the reasons set out in
2.1.1. above, and in a liquidation of the issuer, ordinary shareholders are amongst the
last with a right to repayment of capital and any surplus funds of the issuer, which
could lead to a loss of a substantial proportion, or all, of the original investment.
c. Preference shares
2.1.5. Unlike ordinary shares, preference shares give shareholders the right to a fixed
dividend the calculation of which is not based on the success of the issuer company.
They therefore tend to be a less risky form of investment than ordinary shares.
2.1.6. Preference shares do not usually give shareholders the right to vote at general
meetings of the issuer, but shareholders will have a greater preference to any
surplus funds of the issuer than ordinary shareholders, should the issuer go into
liquidation.
d. Depositary Receipts
2.1.7. Depositary Receipts (ADRs, GDRs, etc.) are negotiable certificates, typically issued
by a bank, which represent a specific number of shares in a company, traded on a
stock exchange which is local or overseas to the issuer of the receipt. They may
facilitate investment in the companies due to the widespread availability of price
information, lower transaction costs and timely dividend distributions.
2.1.8. The risks involved relate both to the underlying share and to the bank issuing the
receipt. In addition, there are important differences between the rights of holders
of ADRs and GDRs, (together, "Depositary Receipts") and the rights of holders of
the shares of the underlying share issuer represented by such Depositary Receipts.
The relevant deposit agreement for the Depositary Receipt sets out the rights and
responsibilities of the depositary (being the issuer of the Depositary Receipt), the
underlying share issuer and holders of the Depositary Receipt which may be
different from the rights of holders of the underlying shares.
2.1.9. For example, the underlying share issuer may make distributions in respect of its
underlying shares that are not passed on to the holders of its Depositary Receipts.
Any such differences between the rights of holders of the Depositary Receipts and
holders of the underlying shares of the underlying share issuer may be significant
and may materially and adversely affect the value of the relevant instruments.
Depositary Receipts representing underlying shares in a foreign jurisdiction (in
particular an emerging market jurisdiction) also involve risks associated with the
securities markets in such jurisdictions.
e. Penny shares
2.1.10. There is an extra risk of losing money when shares are bought in some smaller
companies, including so called penny shares. There is a big difference between the
buying price and the selling price of these shares. If they have to be sold
immediately, you may get back much less than you paid for them. The price may
change quickly and it may go down as well as up.
B. WARRANTS
2.1.11. A warrant is a time-limited right to subscribe for shares, debentures, loan, stock or
government securities and is exercisable against the original issuer of the underlying
securities. A relatively small movement in the price of the underlying security could
result in a disproportionately large movement, unfavourable or favourable, in the price
of the warrant. The prices of warrants can therefore be volatile.
2.1.12. The right to subscribe for any of the Financial Instruments listed in Section 2.1.A.
above or 2.1.C. or 2.1.D. below which a warrant confers, is invariably limited in
time, with the consequence that if the investor fails to exercise this right within the
pre-determined time-scale, the investment becomes worthless.
2.1.13. If subscription rights are exercised, the warrant holder may be required to pay to
the issuer additional sums (which may be at or near the value of the underlying
assets). Exercise of the warrant will give the warrant holder all the rights and risks
of ownership of the underlying investment product.
2.1.14. A warrant is potentially subject to all of the major risk types referred to in Section 3
below.
2.1.15. You should not buy a warrant unless you are prepared to sustain a total loss of the
money you have invested plus any commission or other transaction charges.
2.1.16. Some other instruments are also called warrants but are actually options (for
example, a right to acquire securities which is exercisable against someone other
than the original issuer of the securities, often called a covered warrant). For these
instruments, see Section 2.1.44. below.
C. MONEY-MARKET INSTRUMENTS
2.1.17. A money-market instrument is a borrowing of cash for a period, generally no longer
than six months, but occasionally up to one year, in which the lender takes a
deposit from the money markets in order to lend (or advance) it to the borrower.
2.1.18. Unlike in an overdraft, the borrower must specify the exact amount and the period
for which he wishes to borrow. Like other debt instruments (see Section 2.1.D.
below), money-market instruments may be exposed to the major risk types in
Section 3 below, in particular credit and interest rate risk.
D. DEBT INSTRUMENTS/BONDS/DEBENTURES
2.1.19. All debt instruments are potentially exposed to the major risk types in Section 3
below, in particular credit risk and interest rate risk.
2.1.20. Debt securities may be subject to the risk of the issuer’s inability to meet principal
and /or interest payments on the obligation and may also be subject to price
volatility due to such factors as interest rate sensitivity, market perception of the
creditworthiness of the issuer, general market liquidity, and other economic
factors, amongst other issues. When interest rates rise, the value of corporate debt
securities can be expected to decline. Fixed-rate transferable debt securities with
longer maturities/lower coupons tend to be more sensitive to interest rate
movements than those with shorter maturities/higher coupons.
E. UNITS IN COLLECTIVE INVESTMENT SCHEMES
2.1.21. Collective investment schemes and their underlying assets are potentially exposed
to all of the major risk types referred to in Section 3 below.
2.1.22. There are many different types of collective investment schemes. Generally, a
collective investment scheme will involve an arrangement that enables a number
of investors to 'pool' their assets and have these professionally managed by an
independent manager. Investments may typically include gilts, bonds and quoted
equities, but depending on the type of scheme, may go wider into derivatives, real
estate or any other asset. There may be risks on the underlying assets held by the
scheme and investors are advised, therefore, to check whether the scheme holds a
number of different assets, thus spreading its risk. Subject to this, investment in
such schemes may reduce risk by spreading the investor’s investment more widely
than may have been possible if he or she was to invest in the assets directly.
2.1.23. The reduction in risk may be achieved because the wide range of investments held
in a collective investment scheme can reduce the effect that a change in the value
of any one investment may have on the overall performance of the portfolio.
Although, therefore, seen as a way to spread risks, the portfolio price can fall as
well as rise and, depending on the investment decisions made, a collective
investment scheme may be exposed to many different major risk types.
2.1.24. The valuation of a collective investment scheme is generally controlled by the
relevant fund manager or the investment adviser (as the case may be) of the
collective investment scheme.
2.1.25. Valuations are performed in accordance with the terms and conditions governing
the collective investment scheme. Such valuations may be based upon the
unaudited financial records of the collective investment scheme and any accounts
pertaining thereto. Such valuations may be preliminary calculations of the net asset
values of the collective investment schemes and accounts. The collective
investment scheme may hold a significant number of investments which are illiquid
or otherwise not actively traded and in respect of which reliable prices may be
difficult to obtain. In consequence, the relevant fund manager or the investment
adviser may vary certain quotations for such investments held by the collective
investment scheme in order to reflect its judgement as to the fair value thereof.
2.1.26. Therefore, valuations may be subject to subsequent adjustments upward or
downward. Uncertainties as to the valuation of the collective investment scheme
assets and/or accounts may have an adverse effect on the net asset value of the
relevant collective investment scheme where such judgements regarding
valuations prove to be incorrect.
2.1.27. A collective investment scheme and any collective investment scheme components in
which it may invest may utilise (inter alia) strategies such as short-selling, leverage,
securities lending and borrowing, investment in sub-investment grade or non-readily
realisable investments, uncovered options transactions, options and futures
transactions and foreign exchange transactions and the use of concentrated portfolios,
each of which could, in certain circumstances, magnify adverse market developments
and losses. Collective investment schemes, and any collective investment scheme
components in which it may invest, may make investments in markets that are volatile
and/or illiquid and it may be difficult or costly for positions therein to be opened or
liquidated. The performance of each collective investment scheme and any collective
investment scheme component in which it may invest is dependent on the
performance of the collective investment scheme managers in selecting collective
investment scheme components and the management of the relevant component
in respect of the collective investment scheme components.
2.1.28. In addition, the opportunities to realise an investment in a collective investment
scheme is often limited in accordance with the terms and conditions applicable to
the scheme and subject to long periods of advance notice (during which the price
at which interests may be redeemed may fluctuate or move against you).
2.1.29. There may be no secondary market in the collective investment scheme and
therefore an investment in such a scheme may be (highly) illiquid.
F. DERIVATIVES, INCLUDING OPTIONS, FUTURES, SWAPS, FORWARD
RATE AGREEMENTS, DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS FOR THE
TRANSFER OF CREDIT RISK, FINANCIAL CONTRACTS FOR
DIFFERENCES
2.1.30. The risks set out in Sections 2.1.30 through 2.1.39 below may arise in connection with
all types of derivative contracts, whether it is in the form of a listed instrument, an OTC
instrument, or a securitized product such as a note or a certificate.
Derivatives Generally
2.1.31. A derivative is a financial instrument, the value of which is derived from an
underlying asset’s value. Rather than trade or exchange the asset itself, an
agreement is entered into to exchange money, assets or some other value at some
future date based on the underlying asset. A premium may also be payable to
acquire the derivative instrument.
2.1.32. There are many types of derivative, but options, futures and swaps are among the
most common. An investor in derivatives often assumes a high level of risk, and
therefore investments in derivatives should be made with caution, especially for
less experienced investors or investors with a limited amount of capital to invest.
2.1.33. If a derivative transaction is particularly large or if the relevant market is illiquid (as
may be the case with many privately negotiated off-exchange derivatives), it may
not be possible to initiate a transaction or liquidate a position at an advantageous
price.
2.1.34. On-exchange derivatives are subject, in addition, to the risks of exchange trading
generally, including potentially the requirement to provide margin. Off-exchange
derivatives may take the form of unlisted transferable securities or bi-lateral “over
the counter” contracts (“OTC”). Although these forms of derivatives may be traded
differently, both arrangements may be subject to credit risk of the Issuer (if
transferable securities) or the counterparty (if OTCs) and, like any contract, are
subject also to the particular terms of the contract (whether a one-off transferable
security or OTC, or a master agreement), as well as the risks identified in Section 3
below.
2.1.35. In particular, with an OTC contract, the counterparty may not be bound to “close
out” or liquidate this position, and so it may not be possible to terminate a loss-
making contract. Off-exchange derivatives are individually negotiated. As the terms
of the transactions are not standardised and no centralised pricing source exists (as
exists for exchange traded instruments), the transactions may be difficult to value.
Different pricing formulas and financial assumptions may yield different values,
and different financial institutions may quote different prices for the same
transaction. In addition, the value of an off-exchange derivative will vary over time
and is affected by many factors, including the remaining time until maturity, the
market price, price volatility and prevailing interest rates.
2.1.36. Derivatives can be used for speculative purposes or as hedges to manage other
investment or economic risks. In all cases the suitability of the transaction for the
particular investor should be very carefully considered.
2.1.37. You are therefore advised to ask about the terms and conditions of the specific
derivatives and associated obligations (e.g. the circumstances under which you
may become obligated to make or take delivery of an underlying asset and, in
respect of options, expiration dates and restrictions on the time for exercise).
Under certain circumstances the specifications of outstanding contracts (including
the exercise price of an option) may be modified by the exchange or Clearing
House to reflect changes in the underlying asset.
2.1.38. Normal pricing relationships between the underlying asset and the derivative may
not exist in all cases. This can occur when, for example, the futures contract
underlying the option is subject to price limits while the option is not. The absence
of an underlying reference price may make it difficult to assess ‘fair’ value.
2.1.39. The points set out below in relation to different types of derivative are not only
applicable specifically to these derivatives but are also applicable more widely to
derivatives generally. All derivatives are potentially subject to the major risk types
in Section 3 below, especially market risk, credit risk and any specific sector risks
connected with the underlying asset.
Futures/Forwards/Forward rate agreements
2.1.40. Transactions in futures or forwards involve the obligation to make, or to take, delivery
of the underlying asset of the contract at a future date, or in some cases to settle the
position with cash. They carry a high degree of risk. The 'gearing' or 'leverage' often
obtainable in futures and forwards trading means that a small deposit or down
payment can lead to large losses as well as gains. It also means that a relatively small
movement can lead to a proportionately much larger movement in the value of your
investment, and this can work against you as well as for you.
2.1.41. Futures and forwards transactions have a contingent liability, and you should be
aware of the implications of this, in particular margining requirements: these are
that, on a daily basis, with all exchange-traded, and most OTC off-exchange,
futures and forwards, you will have to pay over in cash losses incurred on a daily
basis and if you fail to, the contract may be terminated. See, further, Paragraphs A
and B of Section 4 below.
Options
2.1.42. There are many different types of options with different characteristics subject to
the following conditions.
(i) Put option: a put option is an option contract that gives the holder (buyer)
of the option the right to sell a certain quantity of an underlying security to
the writer of the option at a specified price (the strike price) up to a
specified date (the expiration date).
(ii) Call option: a call option is an option contract that gives the holder (buyer)
the right to buy a certain quantity of an underlying security from the writer
of the option, at a specified price (the strike price) up to a specified date
(the expiration date).
2.1.43. Buying options: Buying options involves less risk than selling options because, if the
price of the underlying asset moves against you, you can simply allow the option to
lapse. The maximum loss is limited to the premium, plus any commission or other
transaction charges. However, if you buy a call option on a futures contract and you
later exercise the option, you must acquire the future. This will expose you to the risks
described under 'futures' and 'contingent liability investment transactions'. Certain
options markets operate on a margined basis, under which buyers do not pay the full
premium on their option at the time they purchase it. In this situation you may
subsequently be called upon to pay margin on the option up to the level of your
premium. If you fail to do so as required, your position may be closed or liquidated
in the same way as a futures position.
2.1.44. Writing options: If you write an option, the risk involved is considerably greater
than buying options. You may be liable for margin to maintain your position (as
explained in Section 2.1.40. above) and a loss may be sustained well in excess of
the premium received. By writing an option, you accept a legal obligation to
purchase or sell the underlying asset if the option is exercised against you,
however far the market price has moved away from the exercise price. If you
already own the underlying asset which you have contracted to sell (known as
'covered call options') the risk is reduced. If you do not own the underlying asset
(known as 'uncovered call options') the risk can be unlimited. Only experienced
persons should contemplate writing uncovered options, and then only after
securing full details of the applicable conditions and potential risk exposure.
2.1.45. Depending on the type of option entered into, there may be increased exposure to
market risk (see Section 3: Generic Risk types, Paragraph D – Market Risk below)
when compared to other Financial Instruments. There are several option styles
including (but not limited to) American-, European- and Bermuda-style.
2.1.46. An ‘American-style option’ may be exercised at any time prior to its expiration.
2.1.47. A ‘European-style option’ may only be exercised on a specific date, its expiration
date.
2.1.48. A ‘Bermuda-style option’ may be exercised on certain specified dates during the
term of the transaction.
2.1.49. If you buy an American-style call option and the relevant market price of the
underlying asset never rises above the strike price on the option (or if you fail to
exercise the option while such condition exits), the option will expire unexercised
and you will have lost the premium you paid for the option.
2.1.50. Similarly, if you buy an American-style put option and the relevant market price for
the underlying asset does not fall below the option strike price (or if you fail to
exercise the option while such condition exists), the option will not be exercised
and you will have lost the premium you paid for the put option.
2.1.51. Purchasing European-style or Bermuda-style options may carry additional market
risk since the option could be “in-the-money” for part or substantially all of the
holding period but not on the exercise date(s). A call option is “in-the-money” if
the strike price is lower than the relevant market price for the underlying asset. A
put option is “in-the-money” if the strike price is higher than the relevant market
price for the underlying asset.
2.1.52. It is even possible for the holder of an exercised, “in-the-money” option to lose
money on an option transaction. Such a situation exists whenever the value
received under the option fails to exceed the purchaser’s costs of entering into the
option transaction (the premium and any other costs and expenses).
2.1.53. If you are a potential writer of an option, you should consider how the type of
option affects the timing of your potential payment and delivery obligations
thereunder. As the writer of a European-style option, the timing of any payment
and delivery obligations is predictable. Absent early termination, no settlements
will be necessary prior to the expiration date. As the writer of an American-style
option, however, you must be certain that you are prepared to satisfy your
potential payment and delivery obligations at any time during the exercise period
(possibly quite soon following the sale of the option).
2.1.54. Traditional options: Certain London Stock Exchange member firms under special
exchange rules write a particular type of option called a 'traditional option'. These may
involve greater risk than other options. Two-way prices are not usually quoted and
there is no exchange market on which to close out an open position or to effect an
equal and opposite transaction to reverse an open position. It may be difficult to
assess its value or for the seller of such an option to manage his exposure to risk.
Contracts for differences
2.1.55. Certain derivatives are referred to as contracts for differences. These can be
options and futures on the FTSE 100 index or any other index of an exchange, as
well as equity, currency and interest rate swaps, amongst others. However, unlike
other futures and options (which may, depending on their terms, be settled in cash
or by delivery of the underlying asset), these contracts can only be settled in cash.
2.1.56. Investing in a contract for differences carries the same risks as investing in a future
or an option as referred to in Sections 2.1.F.b. and 2.1.F.c. above. Transactions in
contracts for differences may also have a contingent liability.
Precious metals, rolling ‘forex’ or currency options
2.1.57. Investing in precious metals, rolling forex or currency options carries similar risks as
investing in a future and you should be aware of these. Transactions in precious
metals, rolling forex or currency options may also have a contingent liability and
you should be aware of the implications of this as set out below. In addition to
standard industry disclosures, you should be aware that margined precious metals
and currency trading are some of the riskiest forms of investment available in the
financial markets and are only suitable for sophisticated individuals and
institutions. Given the possibility of losing an entire investment, speculation in the
precious metals or foreign exchange market should only be conducted with risk
capital funds that if lost will not significantly affect your personal or institution's
financial wellbeing.
2.1.58. If you have pursued only conservative forms of investment in the past, you may
wish to study precious metals or currency trading further before continuing an
investment of this nature. You must also realize that the limited risk in buying
options means you could lose the entire option investment should the option
expire worthless.
2.1.59. If you wish to continue with your investment, you acknowledge that the funds you
have committed are purely risk capital and loss of your investment will not
jeopardize your style of living nor will it detract from your future retirement
program. Additionally, you fully understand the nature and risks of precious metals
and currency investments, and your obligations to others will not be neglected
should you suffer investment losses.
Swaps
2.1.60. A swap agreement is a derivative where two counterparties exchange one stream
of cash flows against another stream, calculated by reference to an “underlying”
(such as securities’ indices, bonds currencies, interest rates or commodities, or
more intangible items).
2.1.61. A swap agreement may also be combined with an option. Such an option may be
structured in two different ways.
2.1.62. On the one hand, “swaptions” are transactions that give the purchaser of the
‘swaption’ the right, against payment of a premium, to exercise or not to exercise,
until the agreed maturity date, its right to enter into a pre-agreed swap agreement.
2.1.63. On the other hand, “caps”, “floors” and “collars” enable a party, against payment
or receipt of a premium, to protect itself against, or to take an exposure on, the
variation on the value or level of an underlying.
2.1.64. A major risk of off-exchange derivatives, (including swaps) is known as
counterparty risk, whereby a party is exposed to the inability of its counterparty to
perform its obligations under the relevant Financial Instrument. For example, if a
party, A, wants a fixed interest rate loan and so swaps a variable rate loan with
another party, B, thereby swapping payments, this will synthetically create a fixed
rate for A. However, if B goes insolvent, A will lose its fixed rate and will be paying
a variable rate again. If interest rates have gone up a lot, it is possible that A will
struggle to repay.
2.1.65. The swap market has grown substantially in recent years, with a large number of
banks and investment banking firms acting both as principals and as agents utilising
standardised swap documentation to cover swaps trading over a broad range of
underlying assets. As a result, the swap market for certain underlying assets has
become more liquid but there can be no assurance that a liquid secondary market
will exist at any specified time for any particular swap.
G. COMBINED INSTRUMENTS/BASKETS
2.1.66. Any combined instruments, such as a bond with a warrant attached, is exposed to
the risk of both those Financial Instruments and so combined Financial Instruments
may contain a risk which is greater than those of its components generally,
although certain combined instruments may contain risk mitigation features, such
as principal protected instruments.
2.1.67. The value of a basket of Financial Instruments (such as shares, indices etc.) may be
affected by the number and quality of reference assets included in such basket.
2.1.68. Generally, the value of a basket that includes reference assets from a number of
reference asset issuers or indices will be less affected by changes in the value of any
particular reference asset included therein than a basket that includes fewer reference
assets, or that gives greater weight to some reference assets included therein. In
addition, if the reference assets included in basket are concentrated in a particular
industry, the value of such a basket will be more affected by the economic, financial
and other factors affecting that industry than if the reference assets included in the
basket are in various industries that are affected by different economic, financial or
other factors or are affected by such factors in different ways.
3. GENERIC RISK TYPES
A. GENERAL
3.1. The price or value of an investment will depend on fluctuations in the financial markets outside of
anyone’s control. Past performance is no indicator of future performance. The nature and extent of
investment risks varies between countries and from investment to investment. These investment
risks will vary with, amongst other things, the type of investment being made, including how the
Financial Instruments have been created or their terms drafted, the needs and objectives of
particular investors, the manner in which a particular investment is made or offered, sold or
traded, the location or domicile of the Issuer, the diversification or concentration in a portfolio
(e.g. the amount invested in any one currency, security, country or issuer), the complexity of the
transaction and the use of leverage.
3.2. The risk types set out below could have an impact on each type of investment.
B. LIQUIDITY
3.3. The liquidity of an instrument is directly affected by the supply and demand for that
instrument and also indirectly by other factors, including market disruptions (for example a
disruption on the relevant exchange) or infrastructure issues, such as a lack of sophistication
or disruption in the securities settlement process.
3.4. Under certain trading conditions it may be difficult or impossible to liquidate or acquire a
position. This may occur, for example, at times of rapid price movement if the price rises or
falls to such an extent that under the rules of the relevant exchange trading is suspended or
restricted. Placing a stop-loss order will not necessarily limit your losses to intended amounts,
but market conditions may make it impossible to execute such an order at the stipulated price.
In addition, unless the contract terms so provide, a party may not have to accept early
termination of a contract or buy back or redeem the relevant Financial Instrument and there
may therefore be zero liquidity in the Financial Instrument.
3.5. In other cases, early termination, realisation or redemption may result in you receiving
substantially less than you paid for the Financial Instrument or, in some cases, nothing at all.
C. CREDIT RISK
Credit risk is the risk of loss caused by borrowers, bond obligors, guarantors, or counterparties failing to
fulfil their obligations or the risk of such parties’ credit quality deteriorating. Exposure to the credit risk of
one or more reference entities is particularly relevant to any credit linked Financial Instrument such as
credit linked notes, and the potential losses which may be sustained, and the frequency and likelihood
of such losses occurring, when investing in credit linked Financial Instruments may be substantially
greater than when investing in an obligation of the reference entity itself.
D. MARKET RISK
General
3.7. The price of investments goes up and down depending on market supply and demand, investor
perception and the prices of any underlying or allied investments or, indeed, sector, political and
economic factors. These can be totally unpredictable.
Overseas markets
3.8. Any overseas investment or investment with an overseas element can be subject to the risks
of overseas markets which may involve different risks from those of the home market of the
investor. In some cases, the risks will be greater. The potential for profit or loss from
transactions on foreign markets or in overseas denominated contracts will be affected by
fluctuations in overseas exchange rates.
Emerging Markets
3.9. Price volatility in emerging markets, in particular, can be extreme. Price discrepancies, low
trading volumes and wide pricing spreads can be common and unpredictable movements in
the market not uncommon.
3.10. Additionally, as news about a country becomes available, the financial markets may react with
dramatic upswings and/or downswings in prices during a very short period of time. Emerging
markets generally lack the level of transparency, liquidity, efficiency, market infrastructure,
legal certainty and regulation found in more developed markets.
3.11. For example, these markets might not have regulations governing market or price
manipulation and insider trading or other provisions designed to “level the playing field” with
respect to the availability of information and the use or misuse thereof in such markets. They
may also be affected by sector, economic and political risk. It may be difficult to employ
certain risk and legal uncertainty management practices for emerging markets investments,
such as forward currency exchange contracts or derivatives.
3.12. The impact of the imposition or removal of foreign exchange controls at any time should be
considered, as well as potential difficulties in repatriation of assets. The risks associated with
nationalisation or expropriation of assets, the imposition of confiscatory or punitive taxation,
restrictions on investments by foreigners in an emerging market, sanctions, war and
revolution should also be considered.
E. CLEARING HOUSE PROTECTIONS/SETTLEMENT RISK
3.13. On many exchanges, the performance of a transaction may be “guaranteed” by the exchange or
clearing house. However, this guarantee is usually in favour of the exchange or clearing house
member and cannot be enforced by the client who may, therefore, be subject to the credit and
insolvency risks of the firm through whom the transaction was executed. There is, typically, no
clearing house for off-exchange OTC instruments which are not traded under the rules of an
exchange (although unlisted transferable securities may be cleared through a clearing house).
3.14. Settlement risk is the risk that a counterparty does not deliver the security (or its value) in
accordance with the agreed terms after the other counterparty has already fulfilled its part of
the agreement to so deliver. Settlement risk increases where different legs of the transaction
settle in different time zones or in different settlement systems where netting is not possible.
3.15. This risk is particularly acute in foreign exchange transactions and currency swap transactions.
F. INSOLVENCY
3.16. The insolvency or default of the firm with whom you are dealing, or of any brokers involved
with your transaction, may lead to positions being liquidated or closed out without your
consent or, indeed, investments not being returned to you. There is also insolvency risk in
relation to the investment itself, for example of the company that issued a bond or of the
counterparty to off-exchange derivatives (where the risk relates to the derivative itself and to
any collateral or margin held by the counterparty).
G. CURRENCY RISK
3.17. In respect of any foreign exchange transactions and transactions in derivatives and securities
that are denominated in a currency other than that in which your account is denominated, a
movement in exchange rates may have a favourable or an unfavourable effect on the gain or
loss achieved on such transactions.
3.18. The weakening of a country’s currency relative to a benchmark currency or the currency of
your portfolio will negatively affect the value of an investment denominated in that currency.
Currency valuations are linked to a host of economic, social and political factors and can
fluctuate greatly, even during intra-day trading. Some countries have foreign exchange
controls which may include the suspension of the ability to exchange or transfer currency, or
the devaluation of the currency. Hedging can increase or decrease the exposure to any one
currency, but may not eliminate completely exposure to changing currency values.
H. INTEREST RATE RISK
3.19. Interest rates can rise as well as fall. A risk with interest rates is that the relative value of a
security, especially a bond, will worsen due to an interest rate increase. This could impact
negatively on other Financial Instruments. There are additional interest rate related risks in
relation to floating rate instruments and fixed rate instruments; interest income on floating
rate instruments cannot be anticipated. Due to varying interest income, investors are not able
to determine a definite yield of floating rate instruments at the time they purchase them, so
that their return on investment cannot be compared with that of investments having longer
fixed interest periods. If the terms and conditions of the relevant instruments provide for
frequent interest payment dates, investors are exposed to the reinvestment risk if market
interest rates decline. That is, investors may reinvest the interest income paid to them only at
the relevant lower interest rates then prevailing.
3.20. Changes in market interest rates have a substantially stronger impact on the prices of zero
coupon bonds than on the prices of ordinary bonds because the discounted issue prices are
substantially below par. If market interest rates increase, zero coupon bonds can suffer higher
price losses than other bonds having the same maturity and credit rating.
I. COMMODITY RISK
3.21. The prices of commodities may be volatile, and, for example, may fluctuate substantially if
natural disasters or catastrophes, such as hurricanes, fires or earthquakes, affect the supply or
production of such commodities. The prices of commodities may also fluctuate substantially if
conflict or war affects the supply or production of such commodities. If any interest and/or the
redemption amount payable in respect of any Financial Instrument is linked to the price of a
commodity, any change in the price of such commodity may result in the reduction of the
amount of interest and/or the redemption amount payable. The reduction in the amount
payable on the redemption of an investment may result, in some cases, in you receiving a
smaller sum on redemption of a Financial Instrument than the amount originally invested in
such Financial Instrument.
J. REGULATORY/LEGAL/STRUCTURAL RISK
3.22. All investments could be exposed to regulatory, legal or structural risk. Returns on all, and
particularly new, investments are at risk from regulatory or legal actions and changes which
can, amongst other issues, alter the profit potential of an investment.
3.23. Legal changes could even have the effect that a previously acceptable investment becomes
illegal. Changes to related issues such as tax may also occur and could have a large impact on
profitability. Such risk is unpredictable and can depend on numerous political, economic and
other factors. For this reason, this risk is greater in emerging markets but does apply
everywhere. In emerging markets, there is generally less government supervision and
regulation of business and industry practices, stock exchanges and over-the-counter markets.
3.24. The type of laws and regulations with which investors are familiar in the EEA may not exist in
some places, and where they do, may be subject to inconsistent or arbitrary application or
interpretation and may be changed with retroactive effect. Both the independence of judicial
systems and their immunity from economic, political or nationalistic influences remain largely
untested in many countries. Judges and courts in many countries are generally inexperienced
in the areas of business and corporate law. Companies are exposed to the risk that legislatures
will revise established law solely in response to economic or political pressure or popular
discontent. There is no guarantee that an overseas investor would obtain a satisfactory
remedy in local courts in case of a breach of local laws or regulations or a dispute over
ownership of assets. An investor may also encounter difficulties in pursuing legal remedies or
in obtaining and enforcing judgments in overseas courts.
3.25. In the case of many Financial Instruments, there will be no legal or beneficial interest in the
obligations or securities of the underlying reference entity but rather an investor will have a
contractual relationship with the counterparty only and its rights will therefore be limited to
contractual remedies against the counterparty in accordance with the terms of the relevant
Financial Instrument.
3.26. In all cases the legal terms and conditions of a Financial Instrument may contain provisions
which could operate against your interests. For example, they may permit early redemption or
termination at a time which is unfavourable to you, or they may give wide discretion to the
issuer of securities to revise the terms applicable to securities. In other cases, there may be
limits on the amounts in relation to which rights attaching to securities may be exercised and
in the event that you hold too many (or too few) securities, your interests may be prejudiced
and should scrutinise these carefully. In some cases, the exercise of rights by others may
impact on your investment.
3.27. For example, a Financial Instrument such as a bond or note may contain provisions for calling
meetings of holders of those bonds or notes to consider matters affecting their interests
generally (including yours) and may permit defined majorities to bind all holders, including
holders who did not attend and vote at the relevant meeting and holders who voted in a
manner contrary to the majority. Further, in some cases amendments may be made to the
terms and conditions of bonds or notes without the consent of any of the holders in
circumstances set out in general conditions attaching to such bonds or notes.
K. OPERATIONAL RISK
3.28. Operational risk, such as breakdowns or malfunctioning of essential systems and controls,
including IT systems, can impact on all Financial Instruments. Business risk, especially the risk
that the business is run incompetently or poorly, could also impact on shareholders of, or
investors in, such a business. Personnel and organisational changes can severely affect such
risks and, in general, operational risk may not be apparent from outside the organisation.
L. CONFLICTS
3.29. In the ordinary course of their respective businesses, the Company and any of its Associates,
will be subject to various actual and potential conflicts of interest which may operate against
your interests.
4. TRANSACTION AND SERVICE RISKS
A. CONTINGENT LIABILITY INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS
4.1. Contingent liability investment transactions, which are margined, require you to make a series
of payments against the purchase price, instead of paying the whole purchase price
immediately. You may sustain a total loss of the margin you deposit with your dealer to
establish or maintain a position. If the market moves against you, you may be called upon to
pay substantial additional Margin at short notice to maintain the position. If you fail to do so
within the time required, your position may be liquidated at a loss and you will be liable for
any resulting deficit. Even if the Transaction is not margined, it may still carry an obligation to
make further payments in certain circumstances over and above any amount paid when you
paid when you entered into the contract. Contingent liability transactions, which are not
traded on or under the rules of a recognised or designated investment exchange, may expose
you to substantially greater risks.
4.2. Especially if you trade in futures, contracts for differences or sell options, you may sustain a
total loss of the margin you deposit with your firm to establish or maintain a position. If the
market moves against you, you may be called upon to pay substantial additional margin at
short notice to maintain the position. If you fail to do so within the time required, your
position may be liquidated at a loss and you must be responsible for the resulting deficit. Even
if a transaction is not margined, it may still carry an obligation to make further payments in
certain circumstances over and above any amount paid when you entered the contract.
B. COLLATERAL
4.3. If you deposit collateral as security with a firm, the way in which it will be treated will vary
according to the type of transaction and where it is traded. There could be significant
differences in the treatment of your collateral, depending on whether you are trading on a
regulated market, with the rules of that exchange (and the associated clearing house)
applying, or trading on another exchange or, indeed, off-exchange. Deposited collateral may
lose its identity as your property once dealings on your behalf are undertaken.
4.4. Even if your dealings should ultimately prove profitable, you may not get back the same assets
which you deposited, and may have to accept payment in cash. You should ascertain from the
firm how your collateral will be dealt with. Deposited collateral may lose its identity as your
property once dealings on your behalf are undertaken. Even if your dealings should ultimately
prove profitable, you may not get back the same assets, which you deposited and may have to
accept payment in cash.
C. ELECTRONIC TRADING
4.5. Trading via the Company’s Online Trading Facility may differ from trading on other electronic
trading systems as well as from trading in a conventional or open market. Customers that trade on
an electronic trading system are exposed to risks associated with the system including the failure
of hardware and software and system down time, with respect to the Company’s Online Trading
Facility, the individual customer’s systems, and the communications infrastructure (for example
the internet) connecting the platform with customers.
D. WEEKEND RISK
4.6. Various situations, developments or events may arise over a weekend (from 00.00.01 A.M.
Cyprus Time (GMT +2) on Saturdays, through 00.00.00 P.M. Cyprus Time (GMT +2) on
Sundays) when the markets generally close for trading, that may cause the currency markets
to open at a significantly different price from where they closed on Friday afternoon.
4.7. Our customers will not be able to use the Company’s Online System to place or change orders
over the weekend and at other times when the markets are generally closed. There is a
substantial risk that stop-loss orders left to protect open positions held over the weekend will
be executed at levels significantly worse than their specified price.
E. EFFECT OF ABSOLUTE TITLE TRANSFER
4.8. Where your collateral is subject to total title transfer to us, you should note that:
a. the assets cease to be your assets and you will no longer have a proprietary claim over
them. They will not be held subject to the rules of the applicable regulator in safe
custody (where they are financial instruments) or subject to client money protection
(where they are cash). The assets become our assets and we can deal with them in our
own right;
b. you will have an unsecured contractual claim against us for re-transfer of equivalent
assets; and
c. as a result, the assets will not be subject to a trust or otherwise insulated in our
insolvency. And, in such event, you may not receive back everything so transferred to
us and you will only rank as a general creditor.
F. SHORT SALES
4.9. Selling “short” means to sell financial instruments that you do not own at the time of the sale.
The seller has an obligation to deliver the Financial Instrument sold at the settlement date
which will generally be a few days later than the trade date, so he will either go into the
market to buy the relevant financial instruments for delivery or he will “borrow” the relevant
financial instruments under a stock lending arrangement (for further detail on this see below).
4.10. Short selling is a technique used by investors who want to try to profit from the falling price of
a financial instrument. If the price of the financial instrument drops after the investor has sold
short (in other words at the time when he is buying or borrowing the relevant financial
instruments for delivery), the investor will make a profit. If, however the price of the financial
instrument rises after the investor has sold short, the investor will have automatically made a
loss, and the loss has the potential to get bigger and bigger if the price of the financial
instrument continues to rise before the investor has gone into the market to buy or borrow
the financial instrument to settle the short sale.
G. OFF-EXCHANGE TRANSACTIONS
4.11. Certain exchanges as recognised or designated investment exchanges. Transactions which are
traded elsewhere may be exposed to substantially greater risks.
H. LIMITED LIABILITY TRANSACTIONS
4.12. Before entering into a limited liability transaction, you should obtain from the firm a formal
written statement confirming that the extent of your loss liability on each transaction will be
limited to an amount agreed by you before you enter into the transaction.
4.13. The amount you can lose in limited liability transactions will be less than in other margined
transactions, which have no predetermined loss limit. Nevertheless, even though the extent of
loss will be subject to the agreed limit, you may sustain the loss in a relatively short time.
4.14. Your loss may be limited, but the risk of sustaining a total loss to the amount agreed is
substantial.
I. COMMISSIONS/TRANSACTION COSTS
4.15. Before you begin to trade, you should obtain details of all commissions and other charges for
which you must be liable.
4.16. When Financial Instruments are purchased or sold, several types of incidental costs (including
transaction fees and commissions) are incurred in addition to the current price of the security.
These incidental costs may significantly reduce or even exclude the profit potential of the
Financial Instruments. For instance, credit institutions as a rule charge their clients for own
commissions which are either fixed minimum commissions or pro-rata commissions
depending on the order value.
4.17. To the extent that additional domestic or foreign parties are involved in the execution of an
order, including but not limited to domestic dealers or brokers in foreign markets, you must
take into account that you may also be charged for the brokerage fees, commissions and other
fees and expenses of such parties (third party costs).
4.18. In addition to such costs directly related to the purchase of Financial Instruments (direct
costs), you must also take into account any follow-up costs (such as custody fees). You should
inform yourself about any additional costs incurred in connection with the purchase, custody
or sale of an investment before investing. The effect of transaction costs (for example on a
new issue of securities) may result in the issue price of such securities falling below the market
value when trading starts.
J. SUSPENSIONS OF TRADING AND GREY MARKET INVESTMENTS
4.19. Under certain trading conditions it may be difficult or impossible to liquidate a position. This may
occur, for example, at times of rapid price movement if the price rises or falls in one trading
session to such an extent that under the rules of the relevant exchange trading is suspended
or restricted. Placing a stop-loss order will not necessarily limit your losses to the intended
amounts, because market conditions may make it impossible to execute such an order at the
stipulated price.
4.20. Transactions may be entered into in:
a. a security whose listing on an exchange is suspended, or the listing of or dealings in
which have been discontinued, or which is subject to an exchange announcement
suspending or prohibiting dealings; or
b. a grey market security, which is a security for which application has been made for listing
or admission to dealings on an exchange where the security’s listing or admission has not
yet taken place (otherwise than because the application has been rejected) and the
security is not already listed or admitted to dealings on another exchange.
4.21. There may be insufficient published information on which to base a decision to buy or sell
such securities.
K. DEPOSITED CASH AND PROPERTY
4.22. You should familiarise yourself with the protections accorded to you in respect of money or
other property you deposit for domestic and foreign transactions, particularly in the event of a
firm insolvency or bankruptcy. The extent to which you may recover your money or property
may be governed by specific legislation or local rules. In some jurisdictions, property, which
had been specifically identifiable as your own, will be pro-rated in the same manner as cash
for purposes of distribution in the event of a shortfall.
L. STABILISATION
4.23. Transactions may be carried out in securities where the price may have been influenced by
measures taken to stabilise it.
4.24. Stabilisation enables the market price of a security to be maintained artificially during the
period when a new issue of securities is sold to the public. Stabilisation may affect not only
the price of the new issue but also the price of other securities relating to it. Regulations allow
stabilisation in order to help counter the fact that, when a new issue comes on to the market
for the first time, the price can sometimes drop for a time before buyers are found.
Stabilisation is carried out by a 'stabilisation manager' (normally the firm chiefly responsible
for bringing a new issue to market). As long as the stabilising manager follows a strict set of
rules, he is entitled to buy back securities that were previously sold to investors or allotted to
institutions which have decided not to keep them. The effect of this may be to keep the price
at a higher level than it would otherwise be during the period of stabilisation.
4.26. The Stabilisation Rules:
a. limit the period when a stabilising manager may stabilise a new issue;
b. fix the price at which he may stabilise (in the case of shares and warrants but not
bonds); and
c. require him to disclose that he may be stabilising but not that he is actually doing so.
4.27. The fact that a new issue or a related security is being stabilised should not be taken as any
indication of the level of interest from investors, nor of the price at which they are prepared to
buy the securities.
4.25.
M. NON-READILY REALISABLE INVESTMENTS
4.28. Both exchange listed and traded and off-exchange investments may be non-readily realisable. These are
investments in which the market is limited or could become so. Accordingly, it may be difficult to assess
their market value and/or to liquidate your position.
N. STOCK LENDING/REPO’S
4.29. The effect of lending (or ‘repo’ing’) securities to a third party is to transfer title to them to the borrower
(or repo purchaser) for the period that they are lent (or ‘repo’ed’). At the end of the period, subject to
default of the borrower (or repo purchaser), the lender (or repo seller) receives back securities of the
same issuer and type. The borrower’s (or repo purchaser’s) obligation to transfer equivalent securities is
secured against collateral (which is usually transferred by a title transfer mechanism pursuant to market
standard agreements). There is, accordingly, credit risk. Lending (or ‘repo’ing’) securities may affect your
tax position.
O. STRATEGIES
4.30. Particular investment strategies will carry their own particular risks.
4.31. The placing of certain orders (e.g. “stop loss” or “stop limits” orders) that are intended to limit losses to
certain amounts may not always be affected because market conditions or technological limitations may
make it impossible to execute such orders. Strategies using combinations of positions, such as “spread”
and “straddle” positions, may be just as risky or even riskier than simple “long” or “short” positions.
5. Clients and potential clients are informed of the following risks that
apply when trading CFDs on virtual currencies (ex. Crypto currencies)
Risk of losing the money on the trading platform
Since there will be no cash delivery nor a number of Bitcoins and/or other Cryptocurrencies actually
involved in the transaction performed on the Company’s trading platforms, but only trading the
difference in the price fluctuation, such risk does not apply. The Bitcoins and/or other Cryptocurrencies
shall be traded like any other financial instrument on the Company’s trading platforms.
Risk of having the Bitcoins and/or other Cryptocurrencies stored on the electronic wallet, stolen
The Company will offer the possibility of storing real Bitcoins and/or other Cryptocurrencies on its
trading platform to Professional and/or Eligible Counter Parties only. In order to minimize and/or to
defeat against this Risk, the Company will follow a risk based approach and make the relevant due
diligence of source of funds concerning Bitcoins and/or other Cryptocurrencies.
Risks associated to the sudden movements in the price fluctuations of the cryptocurrencies
Adequate risk warnings shall be disseminated to the interested clients and/or potential clients regarding
the lack of regulation over Bitcoin and/or other Cryptocurrencies, instability and volatility of the price of
such currencies as well as the factors that may determine sudden movements in the price fluctuations
of the cryptocurrencies, in order to alert and protect investors, prior entering into transactions related
to the prices value difference of the Bitcoin and/or other Cryptocurrencies, against other traditional
currencies.
Stricter margin call levels shall be implemented when dealing with such transactions as well as limitation
on the leverage allowed for opening such positions involving Bitcoins and/or other Cryptocurrencies.
Moreover, the Company has in place a negative protection policy as well as the necessary settings on
the platform which will not allow clients to lose more than their invested capital. Levels of protection
can be elevated in the case of Bitcoin and/or other Cryptocurrencies related trading activities.
Risks associated to the potential high degree of anonymity of Bitcoin and/or other Cryptocurrencies
Although the reasons behind the controversy created around the Bitcoin and/or other Cryptocurrencies,
related to the risks for becoming a suitable monetary alternative for drug dealing and money laundering
it’s understandable, the Company wishes to clarify that actual payments in any cryptocurrencies will be
accepted by the Company only from Professional and/or Eligible Counter-party (“ECP”) clients. Hence,
the Company will accept: deposits or withdrawals in Bitcoins and/or other cryptocurrencies.
Consequently, the above, the Company confirms that it will extend the due diligence procedure focusing
on the source of funds of the above mentioned professional and/or ECP clients. Further, the Company
will apply sticker anti-money laundering measures concerning deposit and withdrawals in Bitcoin and
other Cryptocurrencies.
Also, the Company shall closely monitor the developments related to the Bitcoin and/or other
Cryptocurrencies and it shall be swift in applying any necessary actions to ensure the investors’
protection at all times.
6. MISCELLANEOUS
6.1 This notice cannot and does not disclose or explain all of the risks and other significant aspects involved in
dealing in all Financial Instrument and investment services.
6.2 The Company reserves the right to review and/or amend its Risk Disclosure statements, at its sole
discretion, whenever it deems fit or appropriate.
6.3 Our Risk Disclosure statements are not part of our Terms and Conditions of Business and are not intended
to be contractually binding or impose or seek to impose any obligations on us which we would not
otherwise have, but for the Markets in Financial Instruments Legislation.
7. GENERAL RISK DISCLOSURE
A. CONTRACTS FOR DIFFERENCE (CFDS) OR SPOT FOREIGN EXCHANGE (SPOT
FOREX) TRADING
7.1. As a Client of the Company, you unreservedly acknowledge and accept that trading in Contracts for
Difference (CFDs) or Spot Foreign Exchange (Spot Forex) trading carries with it a significant level of risk
and may not be suitable for all investors. Contracts for Difference (CFDs) and Spot Foreign Exchange
(Spot Forex) are off-exchange (sometimes known as an ‘over-the-counter’, or ‘OTC’) derivative products,
the price of which is determined by the fluctuations in price of certain underlying assets (e.g.
commodities, indices, spot metals and/or currencies) and they should, therefore, be regarded as highly
speculative investments.
7.2. The risk arises from the “gearing” or “leverage” (i.e. the funds required at the outset compared to the
size of the trade entered into), which is available in CFD and Spot Forex trading, which generally involves
a comparatively modest margin deposit as a proportion of the total consideration for the transaction,
so that a relatively small movement in the underlying market can have a disproportionately dramatic
effect on your transaction. If the underlying market movement is in your favour, you may achieve a good
profit, but an equally small adverse market movement can not only quickly result in the loss of your
entire margin deposit, but may also expose you to a large additional loss over and above your initial
margin deposit. You may be called upon to deposit substantial additional margin, at short notice, in
order to maintain your position. If you do not provide such additional funds within the time required,
your position may be closed at a loss and you will be liable for any resulting deficit.
7.3. Furthermore, the value of an investment in CFDs or a Spot Forex trading may be affected by a variety of
factors, including but not limited to, price volatility, market volume, foreign exchange rates and liquidity.
7.4. In addition, these leveraged instruments are short-term trading tools and commission is charged on the
leveraged amount (not the margin deposit). Accordingly, substantial costs may build up when trading
frequently and you should evaluate potential losses against affordability. You should also be aware that
leverage risk can be amplified through the use of a credit facility or any form of borrowing to fund your
CFD or Spot Forex trading, particularly credit cards.
7.5. Accordingly, you should not engage in CFD or Spot Forex trading unless you understand the nature of
such trading, the nature of each particular transaction you are entering into and the true extent of your
exposure to the risk of loss. In order to engage successfully in CFDs or Spot Forex Trading, you should
be experienced in dealing in derivatives and understand the “geared” or “leveraged” nature of these
products. Do not invest funds you cannot afford to lose.
7.6. Please also note that past performance is not necessarily a guide to future performance and that
regulatory changes in taxation, corporations and other laws, as well as fiscal, monetary and regulatory
policy changes may affect your dealings in CFDs or Spot Forex trading. If in any doubt, please seek further
independent and professional advice.
B. NO GUARANTEES
The Company does not and cannot guarantee the initial capital of your portfolio or its value at any time
or any money invested in your dealings in CFDs or Spot Forex trading.
8.7. You unreservedly acknowledge and accept that, regardless of any information which may be offered by
the Company, the value of any Investment in may fluctuate downwards or upwards and it is even
probable that the investment may become of no value.
8.8. You further unreservedly acknowledge and accept that you may run a significant risk of incurring losses
and damages as a result of your dealings in CFDs or Spot Forex trading and you accept and declare that
you are willing to undertake this risk.
8.9. You should not engage in CFD or Spot Forex trading, unless you understand the nature of such trading,
the nature of the particular transaction you are entering into and the true extent of your exposure to
the risk of loss. In order to engage successfully in CFDs or Spot Forex Trading, you should be experienced
in dealing in derivatives and understand the geared or leveraged nature of these products.
C. WARRANTIES AND REPRESENTATIONS
8.10. You acknowledge and warrant that you are aware of the risks, which may be involved in any investment
directly or indirectly in CFDs or Spot Forex trading and that you fully understand:
a. the extent of the economic risk to which you are exposed as a result of such transactions (and
that you have determined that such risk is suitable for you in light of your specific experience
in relation to such transaction and your financial objectives, circumstances and resources;
b. the nature and fundamentals of the transaction and the market underlying such transactions;
c. the legal terms and conditions for such transactions.
8.11. You also acknowledge and warrant that you fully understand the terms and conditions of the
transactions to be undertaken, including, without limitation:
a. the terms as to price, term, expiration date, restrictions and of the terms material to the
transaction;
b. any terms describing risk factors, such as volatility, liquidity, and so on; and the circumstances
under which you may become obliged to make or take delivery of a leveraged transaction.
8.12. You further acknowledge that the high degree of leverage can work against you as well as for you, due
to fluctuating market conditions. Trading in CFDs or Spot Forex trading can lead to large losses as well
as gains in response to a small market movement.
8.13. You acknowledge and accept that you may sustain substantial losses on a contract or trade if the market
conditions move against your position. You also acknowledge that it is in your interest fully to
understand the impact of market movements, in particular the extent of profit/loss you would be
exposed to when there is an upward or downward movement in the relevant rates and the extent of
loss if you have to liquidate a position if market conditions move against you.
8.14. You also understand that under certain market conditions, you may find it difficult or impossible to
liquidate a position, to assess a fair price or assess risk exposure. This can happen, for example, where
the market for a transaction is illiquid, or where there is a failure in electronic or telecommunications
systems, or where there is the occurrence of an event commonly known as “force majeure”.
8.15. You are aware that placing contingent orders, such as “stop-loss” orders, will not necessarily limit
your losses to the intended amounts, as it may be impossible to execute such orders under certain
market conditions.
8.16. You also acknowledge and accept that because the prices and characteristics of over-the-counter
transactions are individually negotiated and there is no central source for obtaining prices, there are
inefficiencies in transaction pricing.
8.17. You consequently accept that the Company cannot and does not warrant that the Company’s prices, or
the prices, which the Company secures for you, are or will at any time be the best price(s) available to
you.
8.18. You declare and warrant that you have read, comprehend and unreservedly accept the following:
a. Information of the previous performance of a Financial Instrument does not guarantee its
current and/or future performance. The use of historical data does not constitute a binding or
safe forecast as to the corresponding future performance of the Financial Instruments to
which the said information refers.
b. Some Financial Instruments may not become immediately liquid as a result, e.g. of reduced
demand, and you may not be in a position to sell them or easily obtain information on the
value of these Financial Instruments or the extent of the associated risks.
c. When a Financial Instrument is traded in a currency other than the currency of your country
of residence, any changes in the exchange rates may have a negative effect on its value, price
and performance.
d. A Financial Instrument on foreign markets may entail risks different to the usual risks of the
markets in your country of residence. In some cases, these risks may be greater. The prospect
of profit or loss from transactions on foreign markets is also affected by exchange rate
fluctuations.
e. A derivative Financial Instrument (i.e. an option, future, forward, swap, contract for
difference) may be a non-delivery spot transaction giving an opportunity to make profit on
changes in currency rates, commodity or indices.
f. The value of the derivative Financial Instrument may be directly affected by the price of the
security or any other underlying asset, which is the object of the acquisition.
g. You must not purchase a derivative Financial Instrument unless you are willing to undertake
the risks of losing entirely all the money which you have invested, and also any additional
commissions and other expenses incurred.
h. You acknowledge and accept that there may be other risks which are not contained above.
8.19. You understand that you should be prepared to take the risk that your trades in Financial Instruments
may be or may become subject to tax and/or any other duty for example because of changes in
legislation or your personal circumstances. The Company does not warrant that no tax and/or any other
stamp duty will be payable. You are personally liable for any taxes and/or any other duties, which may
accrue in respect of your trades.
8.20. In order to comply with applicable laws and regulations, the Company will classify prospective Clients,
either as a ‘Retail Client’, a ‘Professional Client’ or as an ‘Eligible Counterparty’ when considering the
application for opening an account, based on the information provided to the Company.
8.21. Prior to applying for an account you should carefully consider whether investing in a specific Financial
Instrument is suitable for you in light of your circumstances and financial resources. Investing in some
Financial Instruments entails the use of “gearing” or “leverage”. Leverage means the use of various
Financial Instruments or borrowed capital, such as margin, to increase the potential return of an
investment. In considering whether to engage in this form of investment, you should be aware of the
following:
a. You may be called upon to deposit substantial additional margin, at short notice, to maintain
your investment. If you do not provide such additional funds within the time required, your
investment position may be closed at a loss and you will be liable for any resulting deficit. With
regards to transactions in derivative Financial Instruments, the Company is entitled, upon its
discretion, to start closing positions when margin is less than 50%.
b. Investments in the Financial Instruments of the kind described herein may not be undertaken
on a recognized or designated investment exchange and, accordingly, they may expose you to
greater risks than ‘on exchange’ transactions. The terms and conditions and trading rules may
be established solely by the counterparty. You may only be able to close an open position of
any given contract during the opening hours of the execution venue of your transaction. You
may also have to close any position with the counterparty with whom it was originally entered
into. In regard to transactions in Financial Instruments with the Company, the Company is
using an Electronic Trading Platform(s) for transactions in Financial Instruments, which does
not fall into the definition of a recognized exchange, as this is not a Multilateral Trading
Facility.
c. The Company is prohibited from providing you with investment advice relating to investments
or possible transactions in investments and/or from making investment recommendations of
any kind. This prohibition is subject to an exception where advice given amounts to the giving
of factual market information or information, in relation to a transaction about which the
Client has enquired, as to transaction procedures, potential risks involved and how those risks
may be minimized.
D. RISKS OF ONLINE TRADING
8.22. Your access and/or use of the Company’s Electronic Trading Platform(s), or any portion thereof, may
be restricted, intermittent or unavailable during periods of peak demands, extreme market volatility,
systems, upgrades or for other reasons. The Company makes no express or implied representations or
warranties to you regarding the availability, usability, condition or operation thereof. The Company does
not warrant that the access to, or use of the Company’s Electronic Trading Platform(s) will be
uninterrupted or error free, or that the Company’s Electronic Trading Platform(s) will meet any
particular requirements or criteria of processing, performance or quality.
8.23. Under no circumstances, including negligence, shall the Company or anyone else involved in creating,
producing, delivering or managing any part of the Company’s Electronic Trading Platform(s) be liable for
any direct, indirect, incidental, special or consequential damages that result from the use of or inability
to use any part of the Company’s Electronic Trading Platform(s), or out of any breech of any warranty,
including, without limitation, those for business interruption or loss of profits.
8.24. You expressly acknowledge and agree that your access and use of the Company’s Electronic Trading
Platform(s) is at your sole and exclusive risk. You assume full responsibility for any risk of loss resulting
from the use of, or materials or data obtained through the Company’s Electronic Trading Platform(s).
Neither the Company, nor any of the Company’s directors, officers, employees, agents, contractors,
affiliates, third party vendors, facilities, information providers, licensors, exchanges, clearing
organizations or other suppliers providing data, information, or services, warrants:
a. that the Company’s Electronic Trading Platform(s) will be uninterrupted or error free; neither
does the Company, nor any of the Company’s directors, officers, employees, agents,
contractors, affiliates, third party vendors, facilities, information providers, licensors,
exchanges, clearing organizations or other suppliers providing data, information, or services,
make any warranty as to the results that may be obtained from the use of the Company’s
Electronic Trading Platform(s), or as to the timeliness, sequence, accuracy, completeness,
reliability or content of any information, service, or transaction provided through the
Company’s Electronic Trading Platform(s); or
b. that your computer systems will be unaffected or undamaged by any malicious software; or
c. that any data will not be intercepted by any third party.
8.25. In the event that your access to the Company’s Electronic Trading Platform(s), or any part thereof, is
restricted or unavailable, you agree to use other means to place the orders or access information, such
as calling the Company and/or the Company representative(s) via the telephone.
8.26. By placing an order through the Company’s Electronic Trading Platform(s), you acknowledge that orders
may not be reviewed by a registered representative prior to execution. You agree that the Company is
not liable to you for any losses, lost opportunities or increased commissions that may result from your
inability to use the company’s Electronic Trading Platform(s) to place orders or access information.
8.27. This notice cannot, and does not, disclose or explain all of the risks and other significant aspects involved
in dealing in all Financial Instruments and Investment Services provided by the Company. You will be
informed in more detail of the risks involved based on the categorization assigned to you by the
Company and the Investment Services and Financial Instruments selected.
