Media OutReach
Decisive factors: Octa carried out a global survey about brokers’ red flags
Every experienced trader knows a handful of tell-tale signs indicating an unreliable broker. This awareness can come from personal experience, common sense, or secondhand accounts. In any case, these red flags define traders’ choices. They are essential knowledge for those starting their journey in the financial markets or seeking an opportunity to engage with a new broker.
As a trusted broker focusing on building long-term, mutually beneficial client relations, Octa regularly researches traders’ behaviours. Here’s what traders think about brokers’ red flags.
Realistic expectations
First and foremost, Octa’s survey revealed a strong interest in brokers’ promises. It turns out traders are highly unappreciative of murky, evasive, and overly optimistic messages. This kind of false assurance and misleading self-positioning on the part of a broker can turn them off even before their trading journey begins.
When asked about major red flags in brokers’ advertising and positioning, South African and Malaysian traders indicated the most concern about companies that promise easy and unrealistic gains: 62% and 60%, respectively. 36% of Indonesian traders also said this type of misrepresentation was enough to scare them off.
Guaranteed profits declared by the broker are also a major red flag for traders in various regions. This is especially true about South Africa, where 40% of survey participants said they wouldn’t engage with a broker promising bulletproof positive outcomes.
Chart manipulations: a universal red flag
Unsurprisingly, more than half of the respondents in all countries indicated that trading chart manipulations like creating artificial gaps or manipulating candlesticks would be a major concern and would most probably lead to saying goodbye to a broker, regardless of other factors.
There is almost no discrepancy between different survey countries regarding this red flag: between 54% and 61% of traders stay away from brokers that allow such malpractices.
As a regulated and trusted broker, Octa works with independent, third-party liquidity providers to offer its clients non-distorted market prices. Octa also provides access to historical chart data so that traders can verify that the broker’s prices align with actual market conditions and that there were no chart manipulations or price slippages at any given time.
Fast withdrawals as a recognised sign of reliability
A surprisingly high percentage of participants said they had encountered serious fund withdrawal issues in their trading careers. As many as 27% of respondents in South Africa indicated they had had this problem at some point in their trading journey.
21% of Indonesian and 19% of Malaysian traders also had insoluble problems with the cash withdrawal process when engaging with various financial brokers. Nigerian traders were less exposed to this negative side of the trading experience, with only 14% reporting unsolved withdrawal issues.
Octa recommends testing a broker first-hand and forming your own opinion instead of mindlessly believing optimistic promises. Among other advantages, the broker offers a fast and efficient withdrawal procedure that can easily be tested by any trader who engages with Octa, regardless of the country.
High fees can be a deal-breaker
When asked what broker’s flaw is most likely to stop them from becoming the broker’s client, most survey participants highlighted the following two main reasons:
- high spreads and hidden trading commissions (from 29% in South Africa to 39% in Indonesia)
- slow, non-transparent, or unfavourable cash withdrawal procedures and rules (from 13% to 29%, depending on the country).
These results show that traders highly value full transparency and fair trading conditions in addition to fast and efficient withdrawals. Indeed, when it comes to intraday trading, high spreads or hidden fees can turn a profitable trading session into a losing one. Such an outcome can come as a shock to a trader if the real-life commissions and fees differ from those indicated by a broker in terms and conditions.
Wrong moves
The Octa’s survey was not limited to brokers’ red flags and made a foray into traders’ self-reflection. When asked what trading mistakes led them to significant losses, survey participants indicated the following reasons as the most prevalent:
- trading when affected by strong emotions
- forgetting about management tools
- placing orders intuitively, without any specific strategy in mind
- executing strategies without trying them on the demo account first.
Other reasons for making bad trading decisions include trading when feeling fatigued. Overall, it is safe to say that emotional behaviours are among the most dangerous negative factors affecting traders’ performance.
The research established that Indonesian, Malaysian, South African, and Nigerian traders prefer to work with brokers that provide a sense of security and transparency. They look for clear, predictable, and honest procedures that avoid hidden fees or complex withdrawal conditions, which can help establish long-term relationships with brokers based on mutual respect and clarity.
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Disclaimer: Trading involves risks and may not be suitable for all investors. Use your expertise wisely and evaluate all associated risks before making an investment decision.
Hashtag: #Octa
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Octa
Octa is an international CFD broker that has been providing online trading services worldwide since 2011. It offers commission-free access to financial markets and various services used by clients from 180 countries who have opened more than 52 million trading accounts. To help its clients reach their investment goals, Octa offers free educational webinars, articles, and analytical tools.
The company is involved in a comprehensive network of charitable and humanitarian initiatives, including the improvement of educational infrastructure and short-notice relief projects supporting local communities.
In Southeast Asia, Octa received the ‘Best Trading Platform Malaysia 2024’ and the ‘Most Reliable Broker Asia 2023’ awards from Brands and Business Magazine and International Global Forex Awards, respectively.
CareerSense Matters in Today’s Job Market
The global workforce is evolving rapidly. Automation, digitalisation, and emerging technologies are creating new opportunities while presenting new challenges. Navigating this landscape requires more than academic credentials; it demands self-awareness, adaptability, and strategic planning.
CareerSense addresses these needs by combining artificial intelligence with career development expertise, offering a personalised, data-driven approach to job readiness. It functions as a comprehensive career coach, accessible anytime and anywhere.
Key Features That Set CareerSense Apart
CareerSense offers a comprehensive suite of features designed to empower students throughout their career journey. Its AI-driven VIPS profiling evaluates Values, Interests, Personality, and Skills to deliver personalised career recommendations aligned with individual strengths and aspirations. The smart resume builder provides real-time scoring and improvement tips, while the job-matching algorithm connects students to roles that fit their unique profiles. Through integrated access, students can RSVP for events, schedule advisory sessions, and apply for internships and job listings seamlessly. Additionally, the Employability Index measures job readiness and works alongside skill gap analysis and tailored course recommendations to help students stay competitive in today’s dynamic job market.
The Bigger Picture: Empowering Future-Ready Graduates
The future of work is shaped by constant change, technological disruption, and global connectivity. Employers seek individuals who are adaptable, self-aware, and equipped with relevant skills. CareerSense empowers students to take ownership of their career journey, understand their strengths, identify gaps, and build competencies that matter in the real world.
This initiative reflects SIM’s commitment to lifelong learning and employability, ensuring graduates are not only job-ready but future-ready. In a competitive market, CareerSense positions SIM learners as confident, agile professionals prepared to lead in the digital economy.
References:
- Introducing CareerSense: Your All-in-One Personalised Career Buddy On-The-Go – https://www.sim.edu.sg/articles-inspirations/introducing-careersense-your-all-in-one-personalised-career-buddy-on-the-go
- Career Service – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/life-at-sim/career-services
- SIM Career Sense App (Google Play Store) – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=sg.edu.sim.careersense&hl=en-US&pli=1
- SIM Career Sense App (Apple Store) – https://apps.apple.com/sg/app/sim-careersense/id1641839680
- Introducing CareerSense: Your Guide to Career Success After Graduation – https://regional.simge.edu.sg/en/introducing-careersense-your-guide-to-career-success-after-graduation/
Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About SIM Global Education
SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 16,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 36% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.
SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.
For more information on SIM Global Education, visit sim.edu.sg
Hong Kong and Macau Organisations Honoured for Outstanding Achievements ESG-led Business for a Sustainable Future
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 December 2025 – With global acceleration towards sustainable development and rising expectations from investors and stakeholders for responsible business practices, Hong Kong and Macau enterprises in recent years have been actively integrating Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) vision into their business strategies to drive green transformation and high-quality growth. Organised by Television Broadcasts Limited (TVB) and co-organised by the Hong Kong Productivity Council, the TVB ESG Awards 2025 (the Awards) aim to recognise and commend enterprises and organisations that have demonstrated outstanding performance in ESG and sustainable development. Now in its fourth edition, this annual flagship event recognise outstanding organisations and their achievements in ESG practices over the past year.
The ceremony was officiated by Mr. Michael WONG, GBS, JP, Deputy Financial Secretary; Dr. LAM Ching-choi, GBS, JP, Non-official Member of the Executive Council & Chairman of the Council for Carbon Neutrality & Sustainable Development; Mr. SIU Sai Wo, General Manager (Business Operations), Television Broadcasts Limited; and Dr. Lawrence CHEUNG Chi-chong, Chief Technology Officer, Hong Kong Productivity Council. Following the Green Summit held in July this year, the presentation ceremony also featured sharing sessions, inviting industry leaders and experts to exchange the latest trends and practical experience. In addition, the enhanced matching sessions enabled enterprises to connect with numerous attendees through exhibition booths to promote cross-sector collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Diverse Award Categories Recognise ESG Efforts of Hong Kong and Macau Industries
This year’s Awards include the “Outstanding ESG Award”, “Best in ESG Practices”, “Best in ESG Report”, “ESG Environmental Innovative Technology Award” and “ESG Social Innovative Technology Award”. Entries were open to five groups, namely large, medium, small market capitalisation/ GEM listed companies, as well as non-listed companies and non-profit organisations, to recognise the achievements of enterprises of different scales in ESG practices, reporting and innovation. To identify outstanding performers, a cross-sector professional judging panel appointed by TVB were responsible for assessing entries, using clear and diversified selection criteria that mainly cover five areas: environment, social, corporate governance, sustainability strategy, corporate information disclosure and communication.
Additionally, a new “Greater Bay Area ESG Excellence Enterprise Award (Macau SAR)” has been introduced this year to recognise Macau enterprises and organisations with outstanding ESG performance that actively promote sustainable development in the Macau community. Furthermore, to enhance and recognise the excellent performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in ESG practices and innovation, TVB has collaborated with the “ESG One” platform of the Hong Kong Productivity Council to launch the “SME ESG Excellence Award” this year. The award covers five areas: “Business Decarbonisation”, “Employee Care”, “Supply Chain Partnership”, “Sustainable Governance” and “ESG Technology Enhancement”, helping SMEs to progressively enhance their ESG performance. Organisations that did not receive the above ESG category awards but have actively performed and implemented ESG initiatives in various aspects will be eligible for nomination of “ESG Special Recognition Award – with Merit” or “ESG Special Recognition Award” in acknowledgement of their contributions.
Mr. Michael WONG, GBS, JP, Deputy Financial Secretary, said in his keynote speech, “Hong Kong possesses significant advantages in green economy transformation. As the city’s two major innovation and technology flagships, Hong Kong Science Park and Cyberport have now brought together over 270 green technology companies, representing growth of more than 80% compared to 2023, reflecting remarkably rapid development in recent years. Hong Kong can provide diversified investment and financing channels, enabling international capital to match with quality green projects. As of the end of September this year, there are over 200 SFC-authorised ESG funds with assets under management exceeding HKD1.1 trillion, demonstrating that investors are increasingly prioritising investment in sustainable development. The Government looks forward to continued collaboration with all of you to jointly build our sustainable future and make outstanding contributions to Hong Kong’s green economic development.”
Mr. SIU Sai Wo, General Manager (Business Operations), Television Broadcasts Limited, said, “The TVB ESG Awards 2025 received over 250 corporate entries this year, reflecting the growing importance of ESG for enterprises. We are grateful to all award-winning organisations and partners for their continued support of this flagship award. This year’s awardees excelled in ESG performance and set forward-looking models for the industry. TVB is actively supporting enterprises to devote resources to ESG development, incorporate sustainability into business decision-making and operations, and strengthen their sense of social responsibility. The Awards also provide a professional exchange platform for enterprises of different industries and scales to share their ESG strategies and tangible outcomes with a wider range of stakeholders.”
To help the public gain a more comprehensive understanding of the vision, mission and innovative strategies of various enterprises, the presentation ceremony featured sharing sessions. The judge Dr. Lawrence CHEUNG Chi-chong, Chief Technology Officer, Hong Kong Productivity Council, together with representatives from enterprises receiving the Outstanding ESG Award, exchanged practical insights. As the highest honour of this year’s Awards, the Outstanding ESG Award is conferred upon top-tier organisations in each category that have achieved the best performance in both “ESG Practices” and “ESG Report”. The award-winning enterprises shared their insights in the session titled “Partnering Across Sectors to Co-create a Low-carbon Future”:
- Ms. Jessica CHAN, Head of Sustainability of MTR Corporation, shared how MTR leverages its diversified business portfolio to drive carbon reduction and social inclusion in daily operations, thus encouraging business partners to enhance their ESG performance.
- Ms. Angel SZE, Company Secretary and Head of ESG Management Committee, Fosun International Limited, who shared how Fosun is driving innovation and global development to create value, while highlighting effective ESG practices for cross‑industry and cross‑regional enterprises.
- Ms. Connie LAU, Assistant General Manager, Legal Department, China State Construction Development Holdings Limited, who used examples of innovative applications to demonstrate the company’s breakthroughs and decarbonisation goals.
- Mr. Jonathan CHIU, President, Schneider Electric Hong Kong, who highlighted the company’s commitment as a global energy technology leader to driving efficiency and sustainability by electrifying, automating and digitalising industries, businesses and homes, contributing to Hong Kong’s low-carbon transition.
- Mr. Peter LEE, Chief Sustainability Officer, Airport Authority Hong Kong, elaborated on how the authority collaborates with business partners and extends the sustainability concept to the society and education sector.
- Mr. Oswald AU, Managing Director, Riskory Consultancy Limited, shared how SMEs can drive ESG through innovative solutions and practical actions, while leveraging mega event economy development to create greater impact.
Building on these insights, another sharing session titled “Building a Green and Sustainable Pathway: Advancing Liveable, Inclusive Smart Cities” invited Mr. Andy WONG, Senior Manager, Advocacy, Our Hong Kong Foundation, as moderator. He was joined by Ir. Franco CHEUNG, Director (Projects), Hong Kong Housing Society, Mr. Samuel KWONG, Senior Associate Director – ESG, Chinachem Group and Mr. Jeffery LOK, Managing Director, Kwan On Chemical Enterprise Co. Ltd., for in-depth discussions on topics such as decarbonisation planning, the application of green building technologies including Modular Integrated Construction (MiC), kitchen and grease trap waste oil recycling, exploring the roadmap for Hong Kong and Macau’s sustainable urban development and environmental benefits.
Strong Corporate Involvement Fosters Cross-Sector Connections
This year’s ceremony attracted enthusiastic participation from numerous enterprises and organisations, including listed companies, non-listed companies and non-profit organisations, signalling the local market’s increasing commitment to ESG. Enhanced matching sessions with exhibition booths were arranged before and after the ceremony, allowing participants to engage in in-depth exchanges on green technology solutions, sustainable development and eco-friendly materials, and to explore collaboration opportunities.
For the full list of award winners, please visit: https://www.tvbesg.com.hk/past-awards/esg-awards-2025
High resolution photos HERE
Hashtag: #TVBESGAwards #TVB #ESG #Corporate
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About TVB ESG
Since 2022, TVB ESG has been committed to building a professional exchange platform for local sustainable development, promoting a deeper understanding, implementation, and strategic development of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) issues among businesses and different sectors of society. TVB ESG works closely with various organisations to foster cross-sector collaboration, help enterprises expand their professional networks and strengthen industry connections, while enhancing their visibility in the market and industry through diverse channels, thereby amplifying their impact in the ESG field.
To enhance industry exchange and promote a culture of sustainability, TVB ESG organises three core events every year, the Green Forum, the Green Summit and the “TVB ESG Awards”. These events aim to focus on key environmental issues and emerging trends, bringing together industry leaders and experts to provide forward-looking insights for enterprises, promote knowledge sharing, and facilitate the exchange of best practices. Through the “TVB ESG Awards”, TVB ESG also recognises enterprises and organisations with outstanding achievements in sustainable development, encouraging the industry to continuously implement and elevate ESG standards.
1. Work Injury Claims Data (Total: 1,032 Cases)
Sick Leave Distribution:
- 0 – 30 Days: 279 cases
- 31 – 100 Days: 323 cases
- 101 – 300 Days: 261 cases
- 301 – 700 Days: 145 cases
- 701 – 1,000 Days: 18 cases
- 1,001 – 2,000 Days: 3 cases
- Over 2,000 Days: 3 cases
Summary: Over 58% of cases involve fewer than 100 days of sick leave, indicating that minor injuries remain the norm. However, extreme cases exceeding 2,000 days highlight the dire need for long-term legal and financial support for severely injured workers.
Assessment of Earning Capacity:
- 0% – 4%: 745 cases
- 5% – 14%: 188 cases
- 15% – 34%: 52 cases
- 35% – 64%: 11 cases
- 65% – 94%: 10 cases
- 95% – 100%: 26 cases
Summary: A “pyramid” distribution is observed, with 72% involving minor impairments. Yet, the 26 cases of near-total disability (95-100%) underscore the catastrophic impact of high-risk workplace accidents on families.
Estimated Results:
- HK$0 – $50,000: 381 cases
- HK$50,001 – $100,000: 226 cases
- HK$100,001 – $200,000: 147 cases
- HK$200,001 – $500,000: 109 cases
- HK$500,001 – $1,000,000: 125 cases
- HK$1,000,001 – $2,000,000: 31 cases
- HK$2,000,001 – $5,000,000: 13 cases
Summary: 16% of inquiries yield estimates above HK$500,000. These cases often involve complex future loss of earnings, signaling a high demand for specialized legal advocacy in high-value claims.
2. Traffic Accident Claims Data (Total: 868 Cases)
Injured Body Parts:
- Back / Spine: 176 cases
- Lower Back / Hips: 118 cases
- Head: 112 cases
- Shoulder: 111 cases
- Neck: 105 cases
- Leg: 104 cases
- Knee: 74 cases
- Arm: 68 cases
Summary: Back and spine injuries are the most frequent, often resulting from whiplash in rear-end collisions. These injuries are critical for PSLA (Pain, Suffering, and Loss of Amenities) evaluations in civil court.
Nature of Injuries:
- Sprain: 241 cases
- Fracture: 180 cases
- Contusion: 169 cases
- Nerve / Brain: 139 cases
- Internal: 74 cases
- Dislocation: 65 cases
Summary: While sprains are most common, the high number of nerve and brain injuries (139 cases) is concerning, as these often lead to permanent functional impairment.
Estimated Results:
- HK$0 – $100,000: 422 cases
- HK$100,001 – $200,000: 162 cases
- HK$200,001 – $500,000: 179 cases
- HK$500,001 – $1,000,000: 98 cases
- HK$1,000,001 – $2,000,000: 5 cases
- HK$2,000,001 – $10,000,000: 0 cases
- Over HK$10,000,000: 2 cases
Summary: Traffic claims show extreme polarization. While most stay below HK
$100k, two cases exceeded HK$ 10 million, reflecting the massive social cost of life-altering road collisions.
Mandatory Disclaimer
IMPORTANT: All compensation figures are generated by the “AI Compensation Calculator” based on user input. These are preliminary estimates only and not final actual compensation amounts. Final payouts depend on court rulings, liability apportionment, and medical evidence. Victims must seek formal legal advice from practicing lawyers.
Hashtag: #HKAccidentLawyers #HKCivilClaim #PersonalInjury #WorkInjury #CivilClaims #ClaimsData
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
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