FAQ for iTrader^TM

1.           What can I trade online?
We offer online trading services of securities, index futures, index options and stock options.

2.           Am I able to see broker queues?
Yes, you are able to see the Hong Kong broker queues for securities trading at the right hand side of AMS screen in iTrader^TM.  Once you click on the broker queue, you can see the corresponding broker firm.

3.           How do I place an order at iTrader^TM?
Once you have logged onto iTrader^TM, you can place your order using order entry box on the right hand side of program interface.

4.           What will happen after I place an order?
Once you have placed an order, iTrader^TM will prompt you with a summary of your order, including the Stock Symbol, Order Type, Quantity, Price, Commission, other transaction fees and Total Amount. After you click on the "SUBMIT" button, the order will send to SEHK automatically.

5.           Can I cancel an order?
Yes, as long as the order hasn't been executed.  When you place a request to cancel an order, it is important to know that the request cannot be guaranteed. The order may have already been executed or partially filled by the time the request reaches the market. If the order has been partially filled, then what is remaining of the order can be cancelled.

6.           Can I change an order?
Yes, however you must follow the procedure on how to change an order. Again, it is important to know that the request cannot be guaranteed. The order may have already been executed or partially filled by the time the request reaches the market. If the order has been partially filled, then what is remaining of the order can be changed. Order information will be updated automatically in order book.

7.           What types of account information can I view at iTrader^TM?
Under the 'Portfolio' section, you can view your trading limit, cash balance, and investment holdings.  Click on the Order history, you can view your transaction history and the order execution status.

8.           What browser do I need?
The best view is Microsoft Internet Explorer browsers (versions 4.0 or higher) as a minimum. Please note that dynamic screens being introduced in the future may require higher versions of these browsers.

9.           What are the technical requirements for using iTrader^TM?
For better performance, Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional, XP Home, XP Professional are recommended.  All XP users should contact our service hotline to acquire a Java VM copy to run the internet applications.

10.    How are my orders processed under the online trading system?  Real time straight through processing allows investors to experience fully automated trading. Orders placed through our online trading system, iTrader^TM, are routed via the Open Gateway (for securities) and HKATS Gateway (for futures and options) to the Exchange where they are automatically matched and an electronic confirmation is returned to you.

11.       What security mechanisms are iTrader^TM offering to protect my sensitive data?
When you open an account, you are given a personalized Log On ID and Log On password that must be entered each time you log on to the secure site.  This ensures no one can trade on your account without your authority.  You can change your passwords as frequently as you like.
In addition, our web site is 128-bit encryption enabled, the highest level of security available.  The database capturing the information is held behind a firewall.

12.        What order types can I carry out in the system?
iTrader^TM handle limit orders in an advanced and efficient manner such that your orders can be executed at the best prices.  In addition you can choose to place stop loss orders as a safeguard against unexpected market downturn.

13.       Can my order be executed by a number of matches?
Yes, orders will be matched from the best price to your limit price.

14.       What happens if I want to place an order over 600 lots?
You can place order over 600 lots. Our system will handle it in special way automatically. But on the user side, it seems to be a normal order.

15.      Can I enter orders before market open?
Yes, you can place orders after 9 a.m. on trade days and the orders will be automatically sent to HKEx upon market open.

16.       How long is my order valid for?
iTrader^TM handles only good for day order at this stage. That means the order will expire at the end of the day it is entered.

17.       How can my account information be updated?
You can change your password through iTrader^TM anytime. But if you want to update other information like address, telephone number, email address, etc., you have to inform us directly for such changes.

18.       How to deposit or withdraw funds and stock for my online trading accounts?
You can send messages through iTrader^TM to inform us for your intention. Once we receive your instruction, our settlement staff will contact you to confirm the instruction. After that we will take the correspondent actions.

19.        What is the difference between pending and queuing status in the order book?
"Queuing" stands for the order has been received by system and sent to HKEx waiting for matching. “Pending” stands for the order has been received by system but not sent to HKEx. It normally occurs in order inputted before market open or order price which’s beyond HKEx’s 8 spread levels limitation. We suggest that you cancel these orders immediately, and re-input the orders or call us  at 2869 8870 for order details if in doubt.

20.       How many kind of order status are there in iTrader^TM?
There are following order status in iTraderTM:
i. Comp – Order wholly completed
ii. Part – Order partially completed
iii. Pend – Order being sent to the Exchange
iv. Queue – Order is queuing in the Exchange
v. Inac – Inactive
vi. Canc – Order cancelled
NOTE: All “Inac” orders should be cancelled immediately, please re-input your orders or call us for order details if in doubt.

21.   How do I place order in case of system failure?                           In case of computer system failure, you can give instructions by telephone to our designated Customer Service Officer at 2869 8870. Your account name and number should be quoted via telephone instruction.

22.   Who should I contact for further assistance?                               If you have any questions on online trading, please contact our hotline at 2869 8870.