Below is a comprehensive analysis of NCM Investment (official website: https://www.ncminvest.com) based on the requested criteria, including online complaints, risk level assessment, website security, WHOIS lookup, IP and hosting analysis, social media presence, red flags, regulatory status, user precautions, and potential brand confusion. The analysis draws on available web information, critical examination of sources, and general knowledge of brokerage evaluation, while avoiding speculative or unsupported claims.

1. Online Complaint Information ¶

• Sources of Complaints:
• Forex Peace Army (FPA): Reviews on FPA are mixed. Some users praise NCM Investment for fast withdrawals, no slippage, and a personal approach, particularly for traders in the UAE seeking non-European brokers. One review highlights trust due to perceived strict Arabian licensing and cultural values against client deception. However, another review notes limited trading instruments, suggesting a constraint for diversified trading.
• WikiFX: Neutral user feedback mentions an outdated website design and hesitation to invest due to lack of regulation, indicating caution among potential users.
• Scam Detector: No direct user complaints are cited, but the platform assigns a medium-high trust score (76.9/100) based on 53 factors, suggesting standard operations with low risk of phishing or spamming. However, it notes proximity to suspicious websites, which raises caution.
• General Web: No widespread reports of fraud or major complaints were found in the provided sources. However, the lack of detailed negative feedback could be due to limited user reviews or suppressed visibility.
• Analysis:
• Positive reviews focus on operational efficiency (e.g., withdrawals, execution) and regional trust, particularly in the Middle East. Negative feedback centers on limited instruments and regulatory concerns, which could deter risk-averse investors.
• The absence of significant scam allegations is notable, but the small sample of reviews limits confidence. Unregulated brokers often attract fewer complaints initially due to lower scrutiny, but this can mask underlying risks.

2. Risk Level Assessment ¶

• Broker Operations:
• NCM Investment offers trading in Forex, CFDs, energies (oil, gas), and precious metals (gold, silver), with platforms like MetaTrader 5 (MT5) and a proprietary app.
• The broker emphasizes high-risk instruments (e.g., leveraged products), with warnings that losses can exceed deposits. Risks include market volatility, leverage, lack of regulatory oversight, and counterparty risk (NCM acts as the sole counterparty, not an exchange).
• A minimum deposit of $500 is relatively high compared to some competitors, potentially deterring smaller retail traders.
• Risk Factors:
• Lack of Regulation: NCM Investment is described as unregulated in some sources, increasing risks of fraud, mismanagement, or lack of investor protection (e.g., no deposit insurance or dispute resolution mechanisms).
• Operational Risks: Unregulated brokers may lack robust governance, risk management, or internal controls, leading to potential operational failures.
• Counterparty Risk: Trading solely with NCM as the counterparty means positions are non-transferable, and investor protections typical of regulated exchanges do not apply.
• High Leverage: Leveraged trading carries significant risk, especially for inexperienced traders, as highlighted in NCM’s own risk disclosure.
• Risk Level: High
• The combination of unregulated status, high leverage, and counterparty risk classifies NCM Investment as high-risk. Traders must have strong financial knowledge and risk tolerance to engage safely.

3. Website Security Tools ¶

• SSL/TLS Encryption:
• The website (https://www.ncminvest.com) uses HTTPS, indicating SSL/TLS encryption to secure data transmission. This is standard for financial websites and reduces risks of data interception.
• No specific reports of SSL vulnerabilities or certificate issues were found.
• Payment Security:
• NCM uses KNET’s Streamline Internet Payment System for deposits, which is described as highly secure. Only KNET debit/credit cards registered to the account holder are permitted, reducing fraud risk.
• The broker warns against payments via unofficial channels (e.g., links or representatives), suggesting awareness of phishing risks.
• Cookies and Tracking:
• NCM discloses the use of browser cookies to track user behavior (e.g., referral sources like banners or ads). Users can disable cookies, indicating transparency.
• No evidence of invasive tracking or data-sharing violations was found, but users should remain cautious about cookie consent.
• Security Red Flags:
• The Scam Detector report notes a “Proximity to Suspicious Websites” score, suggesting potential vulnerabilities in the website’s HTML code or server connections. A score above 80 would indicate high risk, but NCM’s score is below this threshold.
• No reports of data breaches or security incidents were identified, but the lack of regulation may limit accountability for future incidents.
• Analysis: The website employs standard security measures (HTTPS, KNET), and cookie usage is transparent. However, the proximity to suspicious websites and unregulated status warrant caution. Regular security audits and user vigilance are recommended.

4. WHOIS Lookup ¶

• WHOIS Data (from Scam Detector and general analysis):
• Registrant: Mukhtar Qazi, NCM Investment Company
• Organization: NCM Investment Company
• Address: Dar Al-Awadi Tower, 27th Floor, Ahmad AlJaber Street, Sharq, Safat 13125, Kuwait
• Country: Kuwait
• Phone: +965.97229688
• Email: [email protected]
• Technical Contact: Same as registrant
• Analysis:
• The WHOIS data is publicly available, which is common for legitimate businesses but can expose registrants to phishing or spam. The consistent address and contact details align with NCM’s claimed headquarters in Kuwait.
• No red flags (e.g., hidden registrant or offshore proxy) were identified, but the lack of a privacy protection service could indicate either transparency or oversight.
• The domain (ncminvest.com) is clearly tied to the company, with no evidence of spoofing or unrelated ownership.

5. IP and Hosting Analysis ¶

• IP and Hosting Details:
• Specific IP address and hosting provider details were not provided in the sources. However, the website is hosted under the primary domain (ncminvest.com) and local TLDs (e.g., ncminvest.com.my, noorcm.com.tr), suggesting a distributed hosting strategy for regional access.
• The Scam Detector report mentions server connections but does not specify hosting providers. The “Proximity to Suspicious Websites” metric suggests potential shared hosting or server vulnerabilities, though not conclusive.
• Analysis:
• Without detailed IP or hosting data, it’s challenging to assess server security or geolocation risks. The use of multiple TLDs indicates a professional setup but could complicate security oversight.
• Shared hosting (if applicable) could increase risks of cross-site vulnerabilities. Traders should verify the website’s authenticity (e.g., via HTTPS and official domain) to avoid phishing sites.

6. Social Media Presence ¶

• Official Channels:
• NCM Investment’s website and app promote engagement through official channels, including a mobile app (available on Google Play) for account management, news, and training.
• No specific social media accounts (e.g., Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram) were detailed in the sources, but the app suggests active digital engagement with real-time updates and event notifications.
• Red Flags:
• The fraud warning on NCM’s website explicitly cautions against unsolicited emails, calls, or messages claiming to represent NCM, indicating awareness of impersonation risks on social media or messaging platforms.
• Lack of visible social media presence in reviews or sources could indicate limited marketing or a focus on regional, direct channels. This is not inherently suspicious but limits transparency.
• Analysis:
• The mobile app serves as a primary engagement tool, offering account access and training, which aligns with modern brokerage practices. However, the absence of prominent social media accounts may reduce visibility and community feedback.
• Users should verify any social media or messaging interactions through official channels (e.g., website contact numbers or email: [email protected]).

7. Red Flags and Potential Risk Indicators ¶

• Regulatory Status:
• Unregulated Concerns: Multiple sources (e.g., WikiFX) confirm NCM Investment lacks valid regulatory oversight, increasing risks of fraud, limited investor protection, and legal uncertainty.
• Claimed Regulation: NCM’s Google Play app description claims regulation by the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) of Kuwait under licenses (AP/2017/0009 and AP/2019/0003). This contradicts WikiFX’s claim of no regulation, creating ambiguity.
• Regional Licensing: A positive FPA review mentions an “Arabian license,” suggesting possible regional oversight, but no specifics (e.g., CMA license verification) were provided.
• Operational Red Flags:
• Portfolio Freezing: NCM warns it may freeze portfolios within three days if records are not updated, per CMA bylaws. This could indicate strict compliance but also raises concerns about accessibility or punitive measures.
• High Minimum Deposit: The $500 minimum deposit is higher than some competitors, potentially excluding smaller traders and signaling a focus on higher-net-worth clients.
• Outdated Website: User feedback notes an outdated website design, which may reflect poor maintenance or limited investment in user experience.
• Fraud Risks:
• NCM’s fraud warning highlights risks of impersonation, unsolicited contact, or fake websites mimicking ncminvest.com. Official domains are limited to ncminvest.com, ncminvest.com.my, nooralmal.com, and noorcm.com.tr.
• The “Proximity to Suspicious Websites” metric suggests potential server or code vulnerabilities, though not definitive evidence of fraud.
• Analysis:
• The lack of clear regulatory status is the most significant red flag, as unregulated brokers pose inherent risks. The conflicting claims about CMA regulation require verification through official CMA channels.
• Operational practices (e.g., portfolio freezing, high deposits) and fraud warnings suggest caution, but no concrete evidence of scams was found. Users must prioritize due diligence.

8. Website Content Analysis ¶

• Content Overview:
• Risk Disclosure: NCM provides detailed risk disclosures, warning of market, leverage, counterparty, and regulatory risks. It advises consulting professional advisors and emphasizes the need for financial knowledge.
• Privacy Policy: The broker commits to keeping personal data (e.g., identity, address) confidential, not sharing or selling it. Cookies are used for tracking referral sources, with an opt-out option.
• Terms and Conditions: NCM may suspend transactions suspected of fraud or criminal activity and limits liability for losses (e.g., data loss, third-party damages). Deposits must use the account holder’s card, enforced by KNET verification.
• Fraud Warning: The website explicitly warns against unsolicited contacts or fake websites, reinforcing official domains and channels.
• Trading Platforms: NCM has transitioned from MetaTrader 4 to MetaTrader 5 (effective April 2023) for faster, more secure trading. It supports Expert Advisors (EAs) and offers competitive spreads.
• Transparency:
• The website is transparent about risks, privacy, and payment processes, which aligns with legitimate brokerage practices.
• Contact details (hotline: 181 3888, email: [email protected]) and a physical address in Kuwait enhance credibility.
• Concerns:
• The outdated design noted by users may reduce trust or usability.
• The emphasis on unregulated trading and counterparty risk in disclosures could deter cautious investors.
• Analysis: The website content is professional, with clear risk warnings and privacy policies. However, the outdated design and lack of regulatory clarity undermine confidence. The fraud warning is a proactive measure but highlights external risks.

9. Regulatory Status ¶

• Claimed Regulation:
• NCM’s app claims regulation by the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) of Kuwait under licenses AP/2017/0009 and AP/2019/0003.
• The website mentions compliance with CMA bylaws (e.g., portfolio freezing rules), suggesting some regional oversight.
• Contradictory Information:
• WikiFX explicitly states NCM Investment has “no valid regulatory information,” labeling it unregulated.
• No independent verification of CMA licenses was found in the sources, and the CMA’s official website would need to be checked to confirm.
• Implications:
• If unregulated, NCM lacks investor protections like deposit insurance, compensation schemes, or dispute resolution, increasing risks.
• If regulated by the CMA, the scope of oversight may be limited to Kuwait, offering less protection for international traders compared to tier-1 regulators (e.g., FCA, ASIC).
• Analysis: The regulatory status is ambiguous due to conflicting claims. Until CMA regulation is verified, NCM should be treated as unregulated, warranting extreme caution. Traders should contact the CMA directly to confirm license validity.

10. User Precautions ¶

To mitigate risks when considering NCM Investment, users should:

1. Verify Regulation: Contact the Capital Markets Authority of Kuwait to confirm licenses (AP/2017/0009, AP/2019/0003). Avoid trading until regulatory status is clear.
2. Use Official Channels: Access the website only via ncminvest.com or verified TLDs (ncminvest.com.my, nooralmal.com, noorcm.com.tr). Avoid links from emails or social media.
3. Secure Payments: Use only KNET debit/credit cards registered to your name for deposits. Never send funds to personal accounts or via unofficial links.
4. Start Small: Begin with the minimum deposit ($500) and test withdrawals before committing larger sums.
5. Disable Cookies if Concerned: Configure your browser to block cookies if you’re wary of tracking.
6. Monitor Accounts: Regularly check account activity via the NCM app or website and update records to avoid portfolio freezing.
7. Seek Professional Advice: Consult financial, legal, or tax advisors to assess risks, especially given the unregulated status and high leverage.
8. Report Suspicious Activity: Contact NCM’s customer service (181 3888 or [email protected]) or the Federal Trade Commission if you encounter unsolicited contacts or fake websites.

11. Potential Brand Confusion ¶

• Similar Entities:
• NCM Asset Management Ltd. (Canada): A distinct entity based in Calgary, managing mutual funds and alternative investments. It operates under ncminvestments.com and is unrelated to NCM Investment (Kuwait). The Canadian firm is regulated and has no connection to Forex or CFD trading.
• NCM Fund & Depositary Services: Operates under ncmfundservices.com, regulated by the UK’s FCA and Jersey Financial Services Commission. It provides fund services, not brokerage, and is unrelated to NCM Investment.
• NCM Investment (Turkey): Operates under ncminvest.com.tr, likely a subsidiary or regional brand of NCM Investment (Kuwait), but no clear regulatory details were provided.
• Domain Risks:
• NCM Investment (Kuwait) explicitly warns against fake websites mimicking its brand, listing only ncminvest.com, ncminvest.com.my, nooralmal.com, and noorcm.com.tr as official.
• Similar domain names or misspellings (e.g., ncminvest.org, noorcmtest.com) could be used for phishing. For example, noorcmtest.com appears related but lacks clarity on legitimacy.
• Analysis:
• The presence of unrelated entities with similar names (e.g., NCM Asset Management, NCM Fund Services) creates significant risk of brand confusion, especially for users unfamiliar with regional differences.
• NCM Investment’s fraud warning demonstrates awareness of impersonation risks, but users must verify domains carefully. The Canadian and UK entities are regulated and reputable, potentially causing users to mistakenly trust the Kuwaiti broker.

12. Overall Assessment ¶

• Strengths:
• Transparent risk disclosures and privacy policies.
• Secure payment processing via KNET and clear fraud warnings.
• Positive user reviews for withdrawals and execution, particularly in the UAE.
• Professional website with contact details and a mobile app for engagement.
• Weaknesses:
• Ambiguous regulatory status, with conflicting claims of CMA oversight and no verified regulation.
• High-risk profile due to unregulated operations, leverage, and counterparty risk.
• Outdated website design and limited trading instruments.
• Potential brand confusion with regulated entities (e.g., NCM Asset Management).
• Proximity to suspicious websites, suggesting server or code vulnerabilities.
• Risk Level: High
• NCM Investment is suitable only for experienced traders with high risk tolerance, willing to verify regulatory status and use official channels. Novice or risk-averse investors should avoid it until regulation is confirmed.
• Recommendations:
• Verify CMA regulation directly with the authority.
• Use only official domains and KNET payments.
• Start with small deposits and monitor account activity.
• Be cautious of brand confusion with regulated NCM entities in Canada or the UK.

Sources ¶

• NCM Investment Website: Risk Disclosure, Privacy Policy, Terms and Conditions, Fraud Warning
• Scam Detector: Trust Score and WHOIS Data
• WikiFX: Regulatory Status and User Feedback
• Forex Peace Army: User Reviews
• Google Play: NCM Investment App Description
• Additional Sources: NCM Asset Management, NCM Fund Services

This analysis critically evaluates NCM Investment based on available data, highlighting both strengths and significant risks. Users must exercise extreme caution, verify regulation, and avoid unofficial channels to mitigate potential issues.