From my perspective as an independent forex trader, considering Rakuten Bank’s offering for trading demands a very measured approach. On the surface, Rakuten Bank benefits from a long-standing presence in Japan’s digital banking sector and a large customer base with significant deposit holdings. This operational history initially conveyed some confidence to me about the stability and infrastructure behind their services. The platform’s digital focus, mainly through their app, does offer convenience for users managing deposits, transfers, and related financial services. However, the lack of valid regulatory oversight is, in my experience, a major red flag that outweighs these operational positives for any trader with serious risk management standards. In the forex industry, genuine, transparent regulation isn’t just a legal box to tick—it is fundamental for safeguarding client funds, dispute resolution, and overall market integrity. Without recognized regulation, I cannot comfortably trust that my trading funds would be protected or that fair practice is ensured. Furthermore, the platform seems to lack robust customer support, with assistance apparently limited and mostly in Japanese, which raises accessibility issues for international users. Given these factors, although Rakuten Bank’s long history and digital infrastructure are appealing, the absence of regulatory protection and inadequate support would prevent me from considering it a prudent or trustworthy choice for forex trading. For me, adherence to regulatory standards remains non-negotiable when selecting a trading venue.