| Updated: September 2, 2025In the world of financial markets, traders are constantly seeking new ways to profit from online trading. One popular instrument that has gained significant attention in recent years is the contract for difference (CFD). The appeal of CFDs lies in the fact that they enable speculation on price movements without requiring ownership of the underlying asset. With numerous CFD brokers operating in the market, however, finding the right one can be overwhelming. Below, you will find a set of factors that will help you determine which CFD brokers are viable options and which you should avoid.
Expert opinion by Christopher Lewis:Below you can find a list of regulated and trustworthy CFD trading brokers:
Top 15 CFD Brokers
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Fusion Markets
- Australia regulated broker
- MT4, MT5, TradingView, Ctrader
- Leverage up to 500
Trading InstrumentsDeposit Methods- Commodities CFDs
- Crypto CFDs
- Forex CFDs
- Indices CFDs
- Metals CFDs
- Stock CFDs
-
FP Markets
- Australia and CySEC regulated broker
- MT4/MT5, TradingView, Ctrader, Iress
- EUR/USD spread from 0.0 pips
Trading InstrumentsDeposit Methods- Commodities CFDs
- Crypto CFDs
- Energy CFDs
- Forex CFDs
- Indices CFDs
- Metals CFDs
- Stock CFDs
-
eToro
- Popular broker for social trading
- Trading is conducted on innovative in-house platform
- Offers both investing and trading products
Trading InstrumentsDeposit Methods- Commodities CFDs
- Crypto CFDs
- ETF CFDs
- Forex CFDs
- Indices CFDs
- Metals CFDs
- Share CFDs
- Stock CFDs
- US Stock CFDs
-
FxPro
- NDD broker offering deep liquidity and ultra-fast execution
- Over 99% instant order executions with no requotes
- Supports MT4, MT5, cTrader, and a proprietary platform
Trading InstrumentsDeposit Methods- Commodities CFDs
- Crypto CFDs
- Energy CFDs
- Forex CFDs
- Indices CFDs
- Metals CFDs
- Stock CFDs
-
Axi
- Raw spreads start from 0.0 pips
- Offers order execution faster than standard ECN model
- Axi Select Funded Trader Program offers funding up to $1 million
Trading InstrumentsDeposit Methods- Commodities CFDs
- Crypto CFDs
- Forex CFDs
- Indices CFDs
- Metals CFDs
- Stock CFDs
-
Vantage FX
- Broker offering some of the lowest spreads from 0.0 pips
- Operating in multiple markets under licenses from tier-1 regulators
- Provides a range of account types with great trading conditions
Trading InstrumentsDeposit Methods- Commodities CFDs
- Crypto CFDs
- Energy CFDs
- Forex CFDs
- Indices CFDs
- Metals CFDs
- Stock CFDs
-
IG
- Offers different account types, including DMA (Direct Market Access) one
- Offers turbo warrants on forex pairs, commodities, indices, and equities
- Supports popular platforms like MT4 and TradingView as well as ProRealTime, L2, and more
Trading InstrumentsDeposit Methods- Bond Futures
- Bond Options
- Bond Spread Betting
- Bonds CFDs
- Commodities CFDs
- Commodity Futures
- Commodity Options
- Commodity Spread Betting
- Crypto CFDs
- Crypto Options
- Crypto Spread Betting
- Currency Futures
- Energy CFDs
- Energy Futures
- Energy Options
- Energy Spread Betting
- ETF CFDs
- ETF Options
- ETF Spread Betting
- Forex CFDs
- Forex Options
- Forex Spread Betting
- Index Futures
- Index Options
- Index Spread Betting
- Indices CFDs
- Interest Rate Futures
- Metal Futures
- Metal Options
- Metals CFDs
- Metals Spread Betting
- Share CFDs
- Stock CFDs
- Stock Options
- Stock Spread Betting
- US Stock CFDs
- US Stock Options
- US Stock Spread Betting
-
Markets.com
- Featuring a wide range of CFD assets across 7 markets
- Supports popular platforms like MT4 and MT5
- Social trading app enables smooth trading alongside proven signal providers
Trading InstrumentsDeposit Methods- Bonds CFDs
- Commodities CFDs
- Crypto CFDs
- ETF CFDs
- Forex CFDs
- Indices CFDs
- Metals CFDs
- Share CFDs
-
Eightcap
- Traders can enjoy competitive trading conditions through different account types
- Offers access to over 800 CFD markets through TradingView
- Platforms like MT4 and MT5 enable multi-device trading
Trading InstrumentsDeposit Methods- Commodities CFDs
- Crypto CFDs
- Forex CFDs
- Indices CFDs
- Share CFDs
-
XM Group
- XM provides great trading experiences using MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5, which are improved by personalized features.
- Zero commission accounts are available
- Top-tier regulation from CySEC, ASIC, FSC, and DFSA oversee XM's operations, assuring transparency and client safety.
Trading InstrumentsDeposit Methods- Bonds CFDs
- Commodities CFDs
- Crypto CFDs
- Energy CFDs
- ETF CFDs
- Forex CFDs
- Forex Options
- Index Options
- Indices CFDs
- Metals CFDs
- Share CFDs
- Stock CFDs
- Stock Options
- US Stock Options
-
IC Markets
- Offers 2,200+ tradable markets, including 61 currency pairs
- Leverage of up to 1:1000 in select jurisdictions
- EUR/USD spreads from 0.8 pips for standard accounts
Trading InstrumentsDeposit Methods- Commodities CFDs
- Crypto CFDs
- Energy CFDs
- Forex CFDs
- Indices CFDs
- Metals CFDs
- Stock CFDs
-
CMC Markets
- Provides a choice of 10,000+ trading instruments
- Supports MT4 and Next Generation (proprietary platform)
- Spreads for EUR/USD from 0.5 pips
Trading InstrumentsDeposit Methods- Commodities CFDs
- Crypto CFDs
- Energy CFDs
- ETF CFDs
- Forex CFDs
- Indices CFDs
- Metals CFDs
- Share CFDs
- Stock CFDs
- US Stock CFDs
-
AvaTrade
- Minimum deposits from $100
- Licensed by 11 regulatory bodies
- Retail forex leverage of up to 1:400
Trading InstrumentsDeposit Methods- Bonds CFDs
- Commodities CFDs
- Crypto CFDs
- Crypto Options
- Energy CFDs
- ETF CFDs
- Forex CFDs
- Forex Options
- Index Options
- Indices CFDs
- Metals CFDs
- Share CFDs
- Stock CFDs
- Stock Options
- US Stock Options
-
HFM
- Up to 1:2000 leverage in specific countries
- Supports trading in micro lots (1,000 units)
- A $6 round-turn commission per standard lot for Zero accounts
Trading InstrumentsDeposit Methods- Commodities CFDs
- Crypto CFDs
- Forex CFDs
- Indices CFDs
- Metals CFDs
- Share CFDs
-
ActivTrades
- Winner of 20+ Global Awards
- MT4/MT5, TradingView
- Leverage up to 1:400
Trading InstrumentsDeposit Methods- Bonds CFDs
- Commodities CFDs
- Crypto CFDs
- ETF CFDs
- Forex CFDs
- Indices CFDs
- Share CFDs
Brokers Compared by Spread
CFD Brokers Deposit Method Comparison
| Brand | Minimum deposit | |
|---|---|---|
| Fusion Markets |  |
$0 |
| FP Markets | |
$50 (AU$100) |
| eToro | |
$50 or $100 based on country ($10 for the UK) |
| FxPro | |
$100 |
| Axi | |
$0 |
| Vantage FX |  |
$50 |
| IG | |
$50 |
| Markets.com | |
$100 |
| Eightcap | |
$100 |
| XM Group | |
$5 |
| IC Markets | |
$200 |
| CMC Markets | |
$0 |
| AvaTrade | |
$100 |
| HFM | |
$0 (Zero, Premium, Cent), $5,000 (Premium Pro), €100 (Pro) |
| ActivTrades | |
$0 |
The Best CFD Brokers by Regulator
| Brand | Maximum leverage | |
|---|---|---|
| Fusion Markets | |
1:500 (ASIC | Pro Account), 1:30 (ASIC | Retail Account), 1:500 (VFSC | Retail Account) |
| FP Markets | |
1:500 (CySEC | Pro Account), 1:30 (ASIC | Retail Account), 1:30 (CySEC | Retail Account), 1:500 (FSAS | Retail Account) |
| eToro | |
1:400 (CySEC | Pro Account), 1:30 (CySEC | Retail Account), 1:400 (FSAS | Retail Account) |
| FxPro | |
1:30 (CySEC | Retail Account), 1:30 (FCA | Retail Account), 1:10000 (SCB | Retail Account) |
| Axi | |
1:500 (Elite Account), 1:400 (Pro Account), 1:30 (ASIC | Retail Account), 1:30 (CySEC | Retail Account), 1:30 (DFSA | Retail Account), 1:30 (FCA | Retail Account), 1:500 (SVGFSA) |
| Vantage FX | |
1:500 (ASIC | Pro Account), 1:30 (ASIC | Retail Account), 1:500 (CIMA | Retail Account), 1:30 (FCA | Retail Account) |
| IG | |
1:222 (BaFin | Pro Account), 1:30 (ASIC | Retail Account), 1:30 (BaFin | Retail Account), 1:200 (BMA | Retail Account), 1:30 (FCA | Retail Account) |
| Markets.com | |
1:294 (CySEC | Pro Account), 1:30 (CySEC | Retail Account), 1:300 (FSCA) |
| Eightcap | |
1:30 (ASIC | Retail Account), 1:30 (CySEC | Retail Account), 1:30 (FCA | Retail Account), 1:500 (SCB | Retail Account) |
| XM Group | |
1:30 (CySEC | Retail Account), 1:1000 (IFSC | Retail Account) |
| IC Markets | |
1:500 (CySEC | Pro Account), 1:30 (CySEC | Retail Account), 1:1000 (FSAS | Retail Account) |
| CMC Markets | |
1:500 (ASIC | Pro Account), 1:500 (FCA | Pro Account), 1:30 (ASIC | Retail Account), 1:30 (BaFin | Retail Account), 1:30 (FCA | Retail Account), 1:20 (MAS | Retail Account) |
| AvaTrade | |
1:400 (Pro Account), 1:30 (Standard Account) |
| HFM | |
1:400 (FCA | Premium Pro), 1:30 (FCA | Retail Account), 1:2000 (FSCA), 1:2000 (SVGFSA) |
| ActivTrades | |
1:400 (CMVM | Pro Account), 1:30 (CMVM | Retail Account), 1:1000 (FSC), 1:200 (SCB) |
CFD Brokers Platform Availability
| Brand | FX pairs to trade | |
|---|---|---|
| Fusion Markets | |
cTrader, MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, TradingView |
| FP Markets | |
cTrader, TradingView |
| eToro | |
Proprietary |
| FxPro | |
cTrader, MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5 |
| Axi | |
MetaTrader 4 |
| Vantage FX | |
MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, Proprietary Web, TradingView |
| IG | |
MetaTrader 4, Proprietary Web, TradingView |
| Markets.com | |
MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, Proprietary Web, TradingView |
| Eightcap | |
MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, TradingView |
| XM Group | |
MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 4 MultiTerminal, MetaTrader 5, Proprietary Mobile, Proprietary Web |
| IC Markets | |
cTrader, MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5 |
| CMC Markets | |
MetaTrader 4, TradingView |
| AvaTrade | |
MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, Proprietary Web |
| HFM | |
MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, Proprietary Mobile |
| ActivTrades | |
MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, Proprietary Web, TradingView |
Comprehensive Comparison of the Best CFD Trading Brokers
| Brand | Min. Deposit | Trading Platforms | Spread | Regulation | Trustpilot |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
$0 |
|
AVG 0.93 pips |
|
|
 |
$50 (AU$100) |
|
AVG 1.2 pips |
|
|
 |
$50 or $100 based on country ($10 for the UK) |
|
AVG 1 pips |
|
|
 |
$100 |
|
AVG 0.5 pips |
|
|
 |
$0 |
|
AVG 0.1 pips |
|
|
 |
$50 |
|
AVG 0.15 pips |
|
|
 |
$50 |
|
AVG 1.13 pips |
|
|
 |
$100 |
|
AVG 0.9 pips |
|
|
 |
$100 |
|
AVG 1.1 pips |
|
|
 |
$5 |
|
AVG 1.2 pips |
|
|
 |
$200 |
|
AVG 0.82 pips |
|
|
 |
$0 |
|
MIN 0.5 pips |
|
|
 |
$100 |
|
AVG 0.8 pips |
|
|
 |
$0 (Zero, Premium, Cent), $5,000 (Premium Pro), €100 (Pro) |
|
AVG 1.3 pips |
|
|
 |
$0 |
|
AVG 0.5 pips |
|
What Is CFD Trading
CFDs (Contracts for Difference) are a type of financial derivative that involves speculating on the price movements of trading assets. Brokers typically offer CFDs on currency pairs, stocks, commodities and indices, among other markets. This instrument enables investors to gain exposure to the markets and eliminates the need to own the underlying asset. By trading CFDs, investors can buy or sell a contract that reflects the price difference between the opening and closing prices of the trade.
CFDs often offer flexible trading hours, allowing investors to trade outside traditional market hours. Additionally, these instruments can be used to open both long and short positions, enabling traders to profit from rising as well as falling markets.
Leverage is one of the key benefits of CFDs, as it allows traders to control larger positions with a smaller amount of capital. This can amplify potential gains, which makes these contracts appealing to many traders. However, leverage is also the reason CFDs are deemed a high-risk instrument and even banned in some jurisdictions.
Margin calls and high market volatility are other risk factors associated with CFDs. As with any financial instrument, it is crucial for traders to educate themselves about the potential benefits and drawbacks of CFDs and to develop a solid trading strategy before entering the CFD market.
Once you feel confident in your CFD knowledge, you can open an account with a CFD broker. If you are not sure how to choose a broker, however, we invite you to continue reading.
Regulation and Security
The first, and arguably most crucial, factor you should consider is regulation—specifically, whether a given broker holds valid licences issued by trusted regulatory bodies. Regulators worldwide have implemented measures to safeguard investors in the CFD market. These rules aim to promote transparency, fairness and investor protection. In the European Union, the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID) sets strict guidelines for CFD providers, including requirements for clear product disclosure and risk warnings. Brokers that operate in the EU are also obliged to provide negative balance protection to retail clients. Similar regulations are in place in other jurisdictions, including the United Kingdom and Australia.
In other words, if you choose a regulated CFD broker, you are far more likely to enjoy a safe and fair trading environment. Here are a few examples of entities that oversee the offering of CFDs and the financial markets of their respective jurisdictions as a whole:
- Financial Conduct Authority or FCA (United Kingdom)
- Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC)
- Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC)
- Vanuatu Financial Services Commission (VFSC)
- Federal Financial Supervisory Authority or BaFin (Germany)
- Commodity Futures Trading Commission or CFTC (USA)
- Financial Services Agency or FSA (Japan)
Note that within the European Union, a licence from one European regulator is valid across multiple member states. For example, Italian traders can use CySEC-regulated brokers. Regulation can also be the reason behind the availability, or lack thereof, of CFDs. In the USA, for instance, the CFTC has officially banned CFDs.
Another benefit of using a regulated broker is security. Adequate security measures safeguard client data and funds through robust encryption. The segregation of client assets is crucial as well. Capital requirements further mitigate risk, ensuring a secure trading environment and protecting investors from potential losses and data breaches.
Range of CFD Markets
Another factor to consider when determining whether a broker is right for you is its roster of CFD instruments. The CFD market itself offers a vast range of trading opportunities, allowing investors to speculate on the price movements of various assets. This includes major, minor and exotic currency pairs, meaning CFDs enable traders to capitalise on fluctuations in global currencies. Popular stock indices such as the S&P 500 and FTSE 100 can also be traded via CFDs at many brokers.
In addition, CFDs can provide access to a range of shares, including individual stocks and ETFs. CFDs are also available on cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, which have become increasingly popular in recent years. In fact, cryptocurrency CFDs are often the only way for the clients of most traditional brokers to gain exposure to the crypto market. Commodities, including gold, oil and natural gas, are also available for CFD trading and should therefore be part of your broker’s CFD selection. They provide a unique opportunity for investors to take advantage of price movements in these markets.
This variety makes CFDs an attractive option for those looking to diversify their portfolios. Moreover, with the ability to trade in both rising and falling markets, CFDs offer a flexible and dynamic trading experience. Traders can choose from several strategies, including day trading, swing trading and long-term investing.
CFD Spreads and Other Costs
When trading CFDs, investors may incur various fees that can affect their profitability. One of the primary costs associated with CFD trading is the spread—the difference between the bid and ask prices of a CFD. The spread can vary depending on the underlying asset, market conditions and account type.
In addition to the spread, CFD traders need to consider the commission charged by their broker, especially if they opt for a zero-spread account. This commission may be a flat fee or a percentage of the trade value. Some brokers also impose additional charges, such as overnight (swap) fees, which can further increase the cost of trading CFDs. Other potential costs include currency conversion and inactivity charges. Certain brokers even attach fees to deposits and withdrawals.
To minimise costs, traders should focus on selecting a broker with competitive spreads and commissions. For example, brokers that offer spreads of under 1 pip on CFDs of major currency pairs are usually considered a good option. It is also advisable to avoid brokers that charge clients for deposit transactions.
All in all, carefully reviewing each broker’s fee structure can help you make informed decisions and minimise unnecessary costs. Most brokers have a separate page or FAQ section dedicated specifically to their costs and fees. If you are still unsure after reading all of the fee-related information provided by a broker, contact its support team and ask for clarification.
Deposits and Withdrawals
When it comes to depositing and withdrawing funds from a CFD trading account, a good broker should provide a variety of payment methods to cater to traders’ differing needs and preferences. Online banking and wire transfers are popular options, offering a secure and reliable way to move money into your account. Digital wallets such as PayPal, Skrill and Neteller are also widely accepted, providing a convenient and fast way to deposit funds. These payment solutions often offer instant deposits, allowing you to start trading as soon as you create an account and verify your details. Crypto deposits, while rarer, might also be viable. Speaking of currencies, make sure that the broker you choose supports your preferred account currency.
For withdrawals, most brokers offer a similar range of options. Bank transfers, in particular, are secure and reliable, although traders should be aware that transactions may take up to a week. Credit and debit card withdrawals are also supported by many brokers and usually ensure faster processing times.
It is essential to review a broker’s deposit and withdrawal options to ensure they meet your needs. Additionally, be aware of any fees associated with these transactions to avoid unexpected charges.
CFD Leverage Limits
Leverage is at the core of CFD trading. In essence, it allows you to borrow capital from the broker, with a small sum serving as collateral, known as the margin. In this way, you can control positions far larger than your deposited funds and therefore enjoy higher potential gains. Checking the leverage limits is an essential part of finding a suitable CFD broker.
Because leveraged trading entails significant risk, regulators across the globe have imposed leverage limits to protect traders. As a result, your place of residence will often determine the range of leverage available to you.
In the European Union, for example, the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has set a maximum leverage limit of 1:30 for CFDs on major currency pairs for retail clients. Consequently, Europe-based traders can use only up to 30 times the capital they have deposited to control a position. The retail limits are the same in the UK and Australia, but in some jurisdictions local laws permit CFD leverage of 1:500 or more, while in others the cap is lower than 1:30. Moreover, bear in mind that some brokers may impose leverage thresholds lower than the maximums set by your local regulator. If you aspire to become a professional trader, you should also be aware that professionals can take advantage of higher leverage.
CFD Trading Platforms
When choosing a CFD broker, traders should examine the supported platforms and their features. Below are several popular platforms that your potential broker might include in its offering:
- MetaTrader 4 (MT4): A user-friendly platform ideal for beginners. MT4 is known for its simple interface, an extensive range of technical indicators and automated trading capabilities.
- MetaTrader 5 (MT5): The successor to MT4, MT5 is a comprehensive platform with advanced charting tools, a broader range of technical indicators and enhanced automated trading features.
- TradingView: A social trading platform that combines real-time market data, advanced charting tools and a global trading community—ideal for traders who want to stay connected and gain insights from others.
- cTrader: A feature-rich platform offering advanced charting capabilities and a clean, modern interface—ideal if you prefer contemporary design.
Most of the above options are mobile-friendly, and the same can be said of many proprietary platforms you may encounter during your search for the perfect CFD broker. In terms of availability, MT4 is by far the most widespread, but an increasing number of brokers now support multiple platforms.
Is the Broker Suitable for Novice Traders
CFD trading is accompanied by a steep learning curve if you are just starting out. A beginner-friendly CFD broker, however, can make all the difference in helping you navigate the markets with confidence.
One of the key characteristics of a broker suitable for novices is the availability of a demo account. These accounts let traders practise CFD trading with virtual funds before risking real capital. This is an invaluable resource for beginners, as you can test strategies, learn from mistakes and gain experience in a risk-free environment. If a broker is truly beginner-friendly, it will also provide educational resources such as guides, video tutorials and more.
Once you are confident in your trading skills and knowledge, you can move on to a live account and deposit funds. A broker that caters to beginners should have a low minimum deposit requirement. Such brokers typically set the minimum at $100 or less, and some impose no minimum at all. Another indicator of a broker’s suitability for inexperienced traders is the availability of risk-management tools.
Customer Support
Customer support can certainly make or break a CFD broker, and traders are usually advised to choose a broker that offers 24/5 or 24/7 assistance. The customer service team should be able to communicate with you in the language you are most comfortable using, especially if the broker is licensed by your local financial regulator.
In addition, look for brokers that prioritise transparency and responsiveness in their customer support. Multiple communication channels should be available, with phone, email and live chat being the most important. It is also wise to check whether the FAQ section is extensive and easy to navigate in case you encounter a minor issue and do not wish to contact a support representative immediately.
Other Factors to Consider
In addition to everything covered above, there are a few more points worth considering while your search for the best broker is under way:
- Fast Execution: Swift execution reduces the likelihood of slippage. Some brokers have partnered with virtual private server (VPS) providers, and using a VPS can further improve execution speed.
- Permitted Trading Strategies: Traders who plan to hedge or scalp will need a broker that allows users to utilise these strategies.
- Account Types: Brokers typically offer several account types. A popular option, often called “zero spread”, charges commissions while offering spreads from as low as 0 pips. There are also Islamic accounts that enable swap-free trading. Another specialised account type caters to professionals with higher leverage caps.
- Minimum and Maximum Trade Size: Flexibility in trade size is important. A minimum of 0.01 lots is typically ideal, while the maximum may range from 100 to 1,000 lots, depending on the broker.
Overall, choosing a CFD broker is far from easy. Once you know what to look for, however, you will be able to identify the aspects you value most and select the broker that best suits your trading preferences.
Why You Should Trust RationalFX
When it comes to making informed decisions about forex brokers, it's essential to rely on trustworthy sources. RationalFX, a company with over 20 years of experience since its founding in 2005, has established itself as a credible authority in the industry. With an impressive collection of over 2,500 reviews on Trustpilot, boasting a score of 4.2, it's clear that Rational FX has built a reputation for providing reliable and unbiased information.
What sets Rational FX apart is its rigorous evaluation process, which considers over 30 different criteria when selecting forex brokers. This comprehensive approach ensures that every aspect of a broker's service is taken in consideration, including regulation, forex spreads, trading platforms, deposit methods, and reputation. With its wealth of experience, transparent review process, and outstanding customer feedback, Rational FX is a trusted source for anyone seeking reliable information on forex brokers. You can reach us via e-mail at feedback@rationalfx.com or contact us through our social media accounts here: Facebook, YouTube, or leave a feedback here.