Emirates NBD Securities Review 2022 | MENA Trading Opportunities

Emirates NBD Securities HeadlinesTrading PlatformsProductsSpreads & FeesLeverageMobile TradingPayment MethodsDemo AccountDeals & PromotionsRegulation & LicensingAdditional FeaturesAccount TypesBenefitsDrawbacksTrading HoursCustomer SupportSecurityEmirates NBD Securities VerdictAccepted CountriesAlternatives to Emirates NBD SecuritiesFAQ

Emirates NBD Securities is the brokerage division of Emirates NBD Bank Group. The brand has emerged as one of the leading online brokers in the UAE. Traders can access local and international investment opportunities on industry-leading and proprietary platforms. This 2022 review will cover the benefits of trading with Emirates NBD Securities, associated fees, deposit and withdrawal methods and more.

Emirates NBD Securities Headlines

Emirates NBD Securities L.L.C is a popular brokerage house in the UAE region. A subsidiary of Emirates NBD banking group, the company values its end-to-end trading solutions for individual investors and top-rated financial technology.

The broker provides access to major financial exchanges across the MENA region. The group is licensed by the Central Bank of the UAE, with the brokerage entity authorized and regulated by the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA).

Emirates NBD’s total asset holdings were AED 694 billion in 2022 with a reported yield of 4.85%. Following a merger and acquisition of DenizBank in 2018, the group expanded its presence to 13 countries and today services over 14 million customers. Emirates NBD is also ranked among the top 20 global brands in the Forbes list of the World’s Best Regarded Companies.

Trading Platforms

The broker offers a range of online and offline trading terminals with direct market access to multiple financial exchanges. Traders benefit from proprietary software trade execution or order routing over major institutional networks such as Bloomberg and ReutersReceive.

The established platforms offer something for traders of all levels, from beginners through to advanced experts. Each platform is available to download to PC and mobile, alongside compatibility with all major web browsers.

Online Trading

eBroker

eBroker is a secure and user-friendly web-based trading platform to buy and sell shares. The intuitive terminal allows you to trade with ease from PC devices. Review your portfolio, understand purchasing power, and view trade confirmations with the click of a button.

eBrokerPLUS

In addition to offering all the features of eBroker, the eBrokerPLUS web-based trading platform provides more sophisticated tools for stock market analysis. The terminal is available without download requirements and is accessible from all web browsers. Features include:

Configure price alerts and notifications
Create and monitor personalized watchlists
Advanced charts and technical analysis tools
Simulate an order before opening a trade to calculate potential profits
Access a live stream data feed, view market news and receive the latest trend updates

eBroker Mobile App

The eBrokerMobile app is available for iOS and Android devices. Stay connected to your trading profile while on the go. Navigate your portfolio, place orders in multiple markets, access transactions, view historical information and more.

Reuters Order Routing (ROR)

Emirates NBD Securities connects with ROR to provide an efficient means of routing orders to compatible institutions. You can connect with institutions, brokers, and exchanges around the globe and process equity transactions seamlessly from the front office to the back office.

Tradebook By Bloomberg

Emirates NBD Securities provides access to the Tradebook platform giving global investors direct access to UAE markets. The Bloomberg Professional Service provides a direct-to-exchange connection. You can execute trades without having to be in contact with local brokers and skip manual processing requirements.

Offline Trading

The broker’s trading desk provides fast, effective, and immediate solutions for all investing needs. A team of certified and experienced brokers is available to contact at any time using dedicated phone and email channels. They are on hand to execute trades for you.

Contact methods include:

Call Center – Execute trades via the dedicated trading call center: +971 600 52 3434 or +971 600 52 3434
Over The Counter – Place orders in person by completing a buy/sell transfer form and submitting it to the Jumeirah head office or within the DFM trading hall

Products

The broker provides trading opportunities on major markets in the MENA region:

Abu Dubai Securities Exchange (ADX) – Invest in public company shares, local governments and federal bonds in a fast-growing market
Dubai Financial Market (DFM) – Trade public company shares, speculate on local governments, federal bond prices or invest in mutual funds on the leading financial market in the region
The Saudi Stock Exchange (TADAWUL) – Speculate on listed companies via the region’s largest stock exchange. Access 150 companies across various industries including energy and finance
Nasdaq Dubai – Trade on the leading international financial exchange in the Middle East. Listed companies gain instant recognition and visibility around the world, supported by the international NASDAQ brand name

All markets work on a T+2 settlement cycle.

Spreads & Fees

Fees and commissions vary by exchange. There is a useful commission calculator available on the broker’s website so you can understand charges before opening a position. We outline typical fees by exchange below:

Dubai Financial Market (DFM)

SCA Commission – 0.05% + VAT
CDS Commission – 0.05% + VAT
Broker Commission – 0.125% + VAT
Market Commission/Fees – 0.05% + VAT, AED 10.50 transaction fee

Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX)

Other Commission – 0.025% + VAT
Broker Commission – 0.125% + VAT

NASDAQ Dubai

Broker Commission – 0.13% + VAT
Trading Fee – 0.05% + VAT, USD 3.15 transaction fee
Central Securities Depository/Settlement Fee – 0.05% + VAT

The Saudi Stock Exchange (TADAWUL)

Total Commission – 0.1306% + VAT

Non-trading fees are also applicable. This includes a statement of account charges and share transfers to other brokers or accounts.

Leverage

The broker offers leveraged trading opportunities via an interest-free finance facility. This means you can purchase stocks on margin with a five-day settlement period. Maximum leverage varies, depending on your share portfolio classification.

Note, that longer-term margin eligibility is reliant on 18+ months of trading history and a minimum portfolio value of AED 1 million. The SCA currently does not impose a limit on maximum leverage so opportunities are vast.

Remember, trading with leverage increases your risk exposure – don’t risk more than you can afford to lose.

Mobile Trading

The Emirates NBD Securities eBroker platform is available as a mobile app. Day traders can download the app to iOS and Android devices directly from the broker’s website or via the relevant app store. Access the tools, features and functionality found on the web trader terminal. You can manage your account, open and close positions, receive alerts and view watchlist charts while on the go.

On the downside, it is disappointing to see some negative user reviews indicating slow server times and clunky price quote navigation.

Payment Methods

Deposits

To trade on the platforms, investors must have a live bank account with Emirates NBD. Sufficient capital to cover deposits and all expenses for the purchase and sale of securities must be available in the bank account.

Bank accounts can be opened in AED, USD and SAR. A minimum deposit requirement is not stipulated, however, an AED 3000 minimum balance must be maintained across all accounts held by the bank.

Benefits of using the bank include a free international AED ATM/ VISA debit card. This can be used to facilitate bill payments, online transfers and more.

Withdrawals

Trading profits are paid directly into live NBD bank accounts. A currency conversion fee will apply for withdrawals in all currencies other than UAE Dirhams (AED).

Note, a maximum daily limit of 25,000 AED applies for cash withdrawals via an ATM.

Demo Account

There is currently no demo account available to new trading clients on any Emirates NBD platform. This is disappointing to see, particularly for inexperienced investors. This is actually similar to other UAE stockbrokers such as HSBC Middle East Securities and International Securities LLC.

We would advise doing prior research into stocks, bonds and other instruments before investing personal capital. Look out for trusted educational information such as YouTube video content and definition glossaries. Alternatively, visit sites such as Yahoo Finance for the latest news from global companies.

Deals & Promotions

At the time of writing, the brokerage did not offer any financial incentives such as a welcome bonus. The SCA regulatory guidelines do not impose restrictions on bonus offerings so keep an eye on the website.

Always review the terms and conditions of promotions as unrealistic minimum thresholds and requirements may be set.

Regulation & Licensing

The Emirates NBD Securities Group Inc Limited (Ltd) abides by all international banking regulations, UAE central bank rules, and DIFX stipulations. Emirates NBD Securities L.L.C. is authorized and regulated by the Securities and Commodities Authority under license number 604003.

The organization regulates, monitors and supervises the conduct of business activities in the financial services sector. The aim is to offer a stable environment to encourage foreign investments. The Central Bank of UAE also regulates all forex brokers, with the SCA issuing licenses.

Additional Features

We were disappointed with the lack of educational resources and content available to retail trading clients. Emirates NBD does not offer a training corporation page or trading guidance materials such as YouTube video content or step-by-step guides. These are particularly useful for new traders. The broker also does not provide useful tools such as an economic calendar or trading calculator on the website. This would help investors stay up to date with market events and calculate margin, swaps, plus profit and loss.

Having said that, there are some interesting additional features available. A loyalty programme is available to all clients, with five tiers each carrying unique benefits. Each trade executed earns THARAA points which can be redeemed for future transactions. Access to membership tiers varies by annual trading volume and the channel used (online or offline). Opening an Emirates NBD Securities trading account also permits access to other features from the initial login:

Price movement SMS alerts
Daily and quarterly portfolio statements
Trade confirmations for every position opened
Investment Murabaha fully Shariah-compliant service
Stock transfer assistance between markets and Emirates NBD accounts

Account Types

There are no account options for individual investors. An existing Emirates NBD bank account must be utilized or opened. All payable fees and deposits will be taken from the declared account. Although a minimum deposit requirement is not stipulated, a balance of AED 3000 minimum must be maintained across all accounts held in the bank.

Share trading bank accounts can be opened in AED, USD and SAR. A full range of Islamic Shariah-compliant investment banking products, securities and services are available.

Opening An Account

The process to open a live account with Emirates NBD Securities is relatively lengthy. All retail traders must complete the individual client brokerage account opening form plus provide KYC documentation. This can be downloaded from the accounts section on the website. Mandatory details include personal financial information and investing knowledge and experience. This is required to trade on all markets. In addition, retail traders must visit an Emirates NBD branch with identification to open a live account.

Specific documentation required is outlined below:

For UAE Residents

Emirates ID
Original passport
Self-attested National ID card from origin home country (Saudi stock exchange only)

For Non-UAE Residents

Original passport
Proof of residency such as a utility bill
National government-issued ID card such as a passport or driving license
Self-attested National ID card from origin home country (Saudi stock exchange only)

Benefits

Regulated
AED accounts
Dubai branches
Loyalty reward scheme
Islamic securities trading
Leveraged trading options available
Various trading platforms and mobile app

Drawbacks

No demo account
Lengthy account sign up
Limited educational content
No weekend customer support
Emirates NBD bank account required for deposits and withdrawals
Negative reviews on mobile app navigation, customer service support, systems and live pricing updates

Trading Hours

The broker’s trading hours vary by exchange. DFM, NASDAQ Dubai and ADX can be traded between 10 AM and 3 PM. TADAWUL trading hours are between 11 AM and 4 PM. All exchanges are closed on Saturday and Sunday.

Check the broker’s website for an updated session timetable by exchange, including upcoming public holidays, daily break sessions and market closures.

Customer Support

Emirates NBD Securities offers several customer contact options. Services include telephone support and an online contact form. Help is available during working hours only, 8 AM to 4 PM UAE time.

It was disappointing to see no international contact options. There is also no self-help FAQ page with topics such as what to do if you forgot a password, loan requirements, how to reset a security question, wire transfer instructions, how to transfer money from an Emirates NBD account to another, plus profile verification requirements.

Contact details:

Email – brokerage@emiratesnbd.com
Call Center Phone Number – +971 600 52 3434
Postal Address – Emirates NBD Securities LLC, P.O.Box. 9409, Dubai, UAE
Online Contact Form – Located via ‘contact us’ in the top navigation bar

Security

Customers of Emirates NBD Securities should feel assured that the corporation follows comprehensive safety protocols. Personal and financial data is exchanged with encryption between the broker and the terminal. The website browser utilizes 128-bit secure sockets layer (SSL) protocols, protecting information during transmission. Server authentication uses RSA public key cryptography in conjunction with ISO X.509 digital certificates.

Additionally, the banking group’s website provides a security center page with details including fraud prevention, phishing and browser updates. All payments are compliant with PCI DSS regulations to protect customer data.

Emirates NBD Securities Verdict

Our Emirates NBD Securities review has highlighted the pros and cons of trading with the broker. We were pleased with access to proprietary and third-party platforms, mobile apps, and leveraged trading opportunities. Instruments are limited to four stock exchanges, therefore this broker may not be suitable for investors wanting to create a diverse portfolio. Also be cautious before opening a live account given some negative user reviews, particularly around customer service and security.

Accepted Countries

Emirates NBD Securities accepts traders from Australia, Thailand, Canada, United States, United Kingdom, South Africa, Singapore, Hong Kong, India, France, Germany, Norway, Sweden, Italy, Denmark, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Luxembourg, Qatar and most other countries.

Alternatives to Emirates NBD Securities

If you are looking for alternatives to Emirates NBD Securities we have compiled a list of the top 5 brokers that are similar to Emirates NBD Securities below. This list of brokers like Emirates NBD Securities is in order of similarity and only includes companies that accept traders from your location.

ZacksTrade – ZacksTrade: Built for the active trader. Stock & ETF trades from $3, 75¢ options contracts and 3.56% margin rate (lower on occasion)

LQDFX – LQDFX offers online trading with multiple STP accounts and MT4 analysis tools.

Paxful – Paxful is a crypto trading exchange and digital wallet offering low fees and easy sign-up.

Uphold – Trading in the Uphold environment offers a one-stop-shop for all your crypto requirements.

eToro – eToro is a multi-asset platform which offers both investing in stocks and cryptoassets, as well as trading CFDs. eToro USA LLC does not offer CFDs, only real crypto assets available.

FAQ

What Is Emirates NBD Securities?

Emirates NBD Securities is a subsidiary of Emirates NBD, a leading banking group in the MENA region. The company provides end-to-end trading solutions for individual investors. The international brokerage allows trading in various countries including Zambia, the USA, Japan, Jamaica, Kenya and more. The banking group has operations departments in global locations including the UK, Jersey, Germany, Russia and Singapore. Visit the website for branch details.

Is Emirates NBD A Government Owned Bank?

Yes, Emirates NBD is Dubai’s government-owned bank. It was established when a merger was completed between EBI (Emirates Bank International) and NBD (National Bank of Dubai). Shares were officially listed on the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) in 2007.

Is Emirates NBD A Good Bank?

The banking group was awarded the ‘Best Bank in the UAE’ for the seventh consecutive year by Euromoney Awards for Excellence in 2021. However, there are some negative reviews across rating sites ranking poor customer service, slow processing times and challenging systems.

Does Emirates NBD Securities Have A Minimum Deposit Requirement?

A minimum deposit requirement is not stipulated by the broker, however a AED 3000, or equivalent currency minimum balance must be maintained across all accounts held by the bank. These funds are used to execute trades and pay fees and commissions.

Does Emirates NBD Securities Offer Cryptocurrency Investing?

No – Emirates NBD Securities does not offer crypto trading opportunities. This includes trading XRP, XLM, BTC, XOM and XRD.

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