FBS Trading Broker Review

Written by Christopher Lewis
Christopher Lewis
Christopher Lewis is a professional trader and author specialized in Forex and Crypto trading.
, | Updated:

Established in 2009, FBS is a global retail broker with a presence in more than 150 countries and over 27 million customers worldwide. The company offers competitive trading conditions and has won over 100 industry awards for the quality of its services. It operates in compliance with international and regional laws, holding licences from the Vanuatu Financial Services Commission (VFSC), the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), and the International Financial Services Commission (IFSC) of Belize, among others.

Christopher Lewis is a US based Forex trader and analyst who trades across all sessions and pairs. He contributes forecasts, videos, and signals to major platforms like DailyForex.com, FXEmpire.com and Investing.com
Expert opinion by Christopher Lewis:
FBS operates under an FSC license in Belize, and offers a proprietary application, as well as MetaTrader 4 and 5. The broker offers an impressive number of exotic currencies in the Forex market as well as all of the pairs that you would expect. Metals, indices, energies, and stocks are also available, as well as market analytics and the FBS Academy.

At-a-glance Statistics

Number of Tradable FX pairs
Number of Regulators
TrustPilot Rating
Number of TrustPilot Reviews
Traffic & Engagement
  • Total visits, December 2024:1.421M
  • Device distribution:
  • Desktop: 72.94%
  • Mobile: 27.06%
  • Visit duration: 00:02:10
Social Traffic
  • Visitors:
  • Youtube: 38.36%
  • Facebook: 33.54%
  • Instagram: 7.07%
  • WhatsApp: 20.06%
  • Telegram: 0.54%
  • Other: 0.43%
Geographic Distribution of FBS Website Traffic

FBS Contact Information

The broker offers a selection of around 550 financial markets, including over 40 forex pairs, metals, energies, indices, and stocks. Two main account types are available, starting with the Standard option, which features floating spreads from 0.7 pips and a minimum deposit of €100. Cent accounts have a lower entry requirement of €10, making them suitable for small-scale traders and beginners. Additionally, FBS offers free demo trading and swap-free accounts. Eligible customers can apply for professional accounts to access leverage as high as 1:500 on major currency pairs.

EU traders can use the MT5 platform, while clients registered under the Vanuatu division also have access to the earlier version, MT4. FBS provides educational and market resources, including regular forex news, daily market analysis, an economic calendar, webinars, trading ideas, and a comprehensive forex guidebook. Traders can contact customer support 24/7 via email, telephone, and live chat. They can also request a callback.

Important: While FBS provides leverage of up to 1:3000, low minimum deposits, and access to more than 550 markets, the key point to remember is that client protection under CySEC and other tier-one regulators means that client funds are held in segregated accounts and the broker must meet strict transparency requirements. Always balance the potential for higher returns against the increased risk of leveraged trading and ensure that the account type suits your experience.

General Information about FBS

Regulators Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission, Financial Sector Conduct Authority, International Financial Services Commission, Australian Securities and Investments Commission
Min. Deposit Cent accounts: $10; AU$50 (ASIC accounts)
Trading Platforms MetaTrader 5
Number of Forex pairs 28
Account Security and Protections Negative Balance Protection, Investor Compensation Fund (CySEC entity)

Account Information

Account Types Demo Account, Cent Account, Standard Account, Pro Account, Islamic Account
ECN Account Not Available
Pro Account Available
MAM Account Not Available

Trading Information

Markets Energy CFDs, Forex CFDs, Index CFDs, Metal CFDs, Share CFDs
Min Contact Size 0.01
Max Contract Size 500 (standard lots)
Min Account Balance USD100
Scalping Allowed Available
Hedging Allowed Available
PAMM Trading Not Available
Swap-free Trading Available

Spreads

Market Instrument Account Spread
any AUDUSD any AVG 1.7 pips
any Bitcoin any AVG 40 pips
any EURGBP any AVG 2.7 pips
any EURUSD any AVG 0.7 pips
any GBPUSD any AVG 1.2 pips
Metal CFDs Gold any AVG 26.3 pips
any NZDUSD any AVG 2.6 pips
any USDCAD any AVG 1.9 pips
any USDCHF any AVG 2.2 pips
any USDJPY any AVG 1.3 pips

Leverage

Forex CFDs 1:30 (ASIC)
Forex CFDs 1:30 (CySEC)
Forex CFDs 1:3000 (FSC)
Commodity CFDs 1:30 (Pro Account)
Commodity CFDs 1:10 (Retail Account)
Crypto CFDs 1:10 (Pro Account)
Crypto CFDs 1:5 (Retail Account)
Forex CFDs 1:500 (Pro Account)
Forex CFDs 1:30 (Retail Account)
Index CFDs 1:30 (Pro Account)
Index CFDs 1:10 (Retail Account)
Metal CFDs 1:333 (Pro Account)
Metal CFDs 1:20 (Retail Account)
Stock CFDs 1:10 (Pro Account)
Stock CFDs 1:5 (Retail Account)

Deposit Methods

Visa CardAvailable
MasterCardAvailable
PaypalNot Available
Credit/Debit CardNot Available
AmexNot Available
Bank/Wire TransferNot Available
CryptoNot Available
BitcoinNot Available
SkrillAvailable
NetellerAvailable
Google PayNot Available
Apple PayNot Available
PayidNot Available
USDTNot Available
TetherNot Available
AstropayNot Available

Regulations and Security

FBS is committed to providing a secure and transparent trading environment for its clients. The brokerage is regulated by multiple authorities, including the International Financial Services Commission (IFSC) of Belize and the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), under licence number 331/17. CySEC is a respected regulatory body within the European Union and requires FBS to adhere to strict financial standards and consumer protection measures.

CySEC regulation ensures that FBS complies with the European Union’s MiFID II (Markets in Financial Instruments Directive), which provides a high level of protection for traders through stringent rules on transparency and fair execution. This regulation gives FBS clients within the EU additional confidence, as the brokerage is required to maintain high standards of financial integrity and provide transparent pricing.

In addition to maintaining regulatory compliance, FBS employs security protocols to safeguard clients’ personal and financial information. The platform uses industry-standard SSL encryption technology to ensure that sensitive data is transmitted securely. Furthermore, FBS offers two-factor authentication (2FA), adding an extra layer of protection against unauthorised account access.

Client funds are kept in segregated accounts, separate from the company’s operational funds, helping to protect traders’ investments if the company experiences financial difficulties. These security measures, combined with FBS’s multiple layers of regulatory oversight, make it a suitable choice for traders seeking a secure trading environment.

Account Types and Features

FBS offers a selection of account types designed to meet the needs of traders with different levels of experience. These accounts provide flexibility in deposit requirements, spreads, and leverage, allowing traders to choose an option that best suits their trading styles and preferences.

  • Standard Account

    The Standard account is suitable for new and experienced traders alike. It offers competitive spreads starting from 0.5 pips and leverage of up to 1:3000. The minimum deposit requirement is $100, making this account accessible to many traders looking to begin trading.

  • Cent Account

    The Cent account is suitable for beginners who want to start trading with smaller amounts. The account balance is displayed in cents, allowing for lower risk and smaller trade sizes. With a minimum deposit of just $1, traders can practise and gain experience in the live market. Spreads start from 1 pip, and leverage is available up to 1:3000, offering flexibility as traders gain experience.

  • Demo Account

    The Demo account allows traders to practise their strategies and become familiar with the trading platform without risking real money. It provides a risk-free environment that simulates live trading conditions, giving beginners an opportunity to learn the basics before opening a live account. The Demo account includes virtual funds, and traders can switch to a real account when they are ready.

Opening an Account with FBS

Opening an account with FBS is a straightforward process designed to help you start trading quickly. Here is a step-by-step guide to opening an account:

  1. Sign Up: Visit the FBS website and click the “Open Account” button. You will be prompted to provide your email address, set a password, and select your country of residence.
  2. Choose Your Account Type: Select the account type that suits your trading preferences. You can choose from the available accounts, each with its own features and benefits.
  3. Submit Personal Information: After selecting your account type, you will need to provide basic personal details, such as your full name, date of birth, and address. You will also need to upload proof of identity, such as a passport or ID card, and proof of address, such as a utility bill, to comply with Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations.
  4. Make a Deposit: Once your account has been verified, you can fund it using various payment methods, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and cryptocurrency options. The minimum deposit varies depending on the account type you choose.
  5. Start Trading: After your deposit has been confirmed, you can download MetaTrader 5, log in with your credentials, and begin trading.

FBS’s range of account types makes it an accessible option for traders of different experience levels, from beginners looking for lower-risk practice accounts to professionals seeking raw spreads and high leverage.

Trading Platforms

FBS offers the MetaTrader 5 (MT5) platform, an advanced and widely used trading platform known for its robust features and versatility. MT5 is suitable for traders of all experience levels, providing powerful tools for analysis, trading, and automation.

Key Features of MetaTrader 5 (MT5):

Advanced charting: MT5 offers 21 timeframes and 38 technical indicators, allowing traders to conduct detailed market analysis.

  • Multiple Order Types: In addition to standard orders, MT5 provides more advanced options, such as “fill or kill”, offering greater flexibility in order execution.
  • Integrated Economic Calendar: Traders can stay informed about real-time news and events that may affect the markets, supporting their decision-making.
  • Expert Advisors (EAs): MT5 supports automated trading, allowing traders to set up and use EAs to trade according to predefined strategies.
  • Multi-device Access: MT5 is available for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, providing access across multiple devices.

MT5 is suitable for traders seeking an advanced yet user-friendly interface with extensive analytical tools and multi-asset trading options.

Trading Instruments

FBS provides a wide range of trading instruments, allowing clients to diversify their portfolios and access global markets. The brokerage primarily offers forex, commodities, indices, and CFDs, giving traders opportunities across various asset classes.

  • Forex

    FBS offers a broad selection of currency pairs, including major, minor, and exotic pairs. Traders can access popular pairs such as EUR/USD, GBP/USD, and USD/JPY, as well as less liquid pairs such as USD/TRY and EUR/ZAR. Forex trading is available with leverage of up to 1:3000, enabling traders to increase their exposure to currency price movements.

  • Commodities

    FBS offers commodities such as gold, silver, oil, and natural gas. These assets are commonly used to diversify portfolios and provide a hedge against inflation or economic uncertainty. Commodities are traded with competitive spreads, allowing traders to respond to volatility in these markets.

  • Indices

    FBS provides access to major global indices, including the S&P 500, NASDAQ, DAX, and FTSE 100. These indices allow traders to gain exposure to the overall performance of stock markets and diversify beyond individual stocks.

  • CFDs

    In addition to forex and commodities, FBS offers Contracts for Difference (CFDs) on various assets, such as stocks, cryptocurrencies, and other financial instruments. CFDs allow traders to speculate on price movements without owning the underlying asset, providing opportunities in both rising and falling markets.

Trading Conditions

FBS offers competitive trading conditions designed to meet the needs of beginner and experienced traders. Whether you are a short-term trader or a long-term investor, the platform provides conditions intended to support efficient and cost-effective trading.

  • Leverage: FBS provides high-leverage options for various instruments, with leverage of up to 1:3000 available on forex pairs. This allows traders to control larger positions with a smaller initial deposit, increasing both potential profits and potential losses. Leverage for other instruments, such as commodities and indices, is typically lower.
  • Spreads: FBS offers competitive spreads, with some accounts providing spreads starting from 0 pips on major forex pairs such as EUR/USD, GBP/USD, and USD/JPY. This can help traders reduce trading costs, which may be particularly important for day trading or scalping strategies. Spreads can vary depending on the account type and market conditions.
  • Order Execution: FBS offers fast execution speeds, helping to ensure that orders are processed with minimal delay. The broker uses advanced technology to handle large volumes of orders, enabling traders to respond quickly to market changes. Timely execution is especially important for traders whose strategies depend on rapid market access.
  • Minimum Deposit: The minimum deposit required to open a live trading account is $1 for the Cent account, making it a suitable option for beginners who want to practise with small amounts of capital. For the Standard account, the minimum deposit is $100. This flexible deposit structure allows traders to start with an amount that suits their risk tolerance and trading style.
  • Trading Hours: FBS provides 24/5 trading, meaning that clients can access the markets from Sunday evening to Friday evening. This allows traders to participate in the major European, US, and Asian trading sessions.
  • Commission and Fees: FBS offers zero commission on some account types. Traders should review the fees for each account type before opening an account to ensure that they align with their trading strategies.

Deposits and Withdrawals

FBS offers a variety of payment options for deposits and withdrawals, allowing clients to fund their accounts and access their money conveniently.

Deposit Options

FBS supports a wide range of payment methods, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards, e-wallets such as Skrill, Neteller, and WebMoney, and cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. The minimum deposit for most payment methods starts at $1 for the Cent account and $100 for the Standard account.

Withdrawal Options

Clients can withdraw funds through similar methods, including bank transfers, credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and cryptocurrencies. Withdrawals are typically processed quickly, with e-wallet withdrawals often completed within 24 hours. Bank transfers may take several business days, depending on the method and country.

Fees

FBS does not charge deposit fees, but withdrawal fees may apply depending on the payment method used. Traders should review the fees associated with their chosen withdrawal option.

Processing Time

Deposits are usually processed instantly for most methods, while withdrawals may take between 1 and 5 business days, depending on the payment method.

Copy Trading and Additional Services

FBS offers a Copy Trading feature that allows beginners and experienced traders to follow the strategies of other traders. This feature enables users to copy trades automatically in real time, making it easier for beginners to participate in the market without extensive knowledge or experience.

  • Copy Trading: Traders can choose from a variety of top-performing traders on the FBS CopyTrading platform. Users can view trader profiles, track their performance, and select traders whose strategies align with their investment goals. The platform offers customisation options, enabling users to control how much of their account balance they allocate to each trader they follow.
  • Additional Services: FBS provides a range of tools and educational resources, such as market analysis, economic calendars, and trading signals. These resources are designed to help traders make informed decisions.

Customer Support

FBS provides customer support to help traders resolve issues and manage their accounts. The support team is available 24/7 and offers assistance in multiple languages to accommodate a global clientele.

  • Multiple Contact Methods: Traders can contact FBS support via live chat, email, and phone. Live chat is available directly through the website, allowing users to request immediate assistance. Email support is also available for more detailed enquiries.
  • Help Centre: The FBS website features a comprehensive Help Centre with FAQs, tutorials, and guides that help traders find answers to common questions and resolve common issues. This resource may be particularly helpful for beginners who are getting started with trading.
  • Social Media: FBS also provides support through its social media channels, including Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, where traders can engage with the brand, ask questions, and receive updates about the latest offers.

The combination of 24/7 support and several contact channels makes FBS’s customer service accessible to its clients.

Pros and Cons

FBS is a popular broker with a range of benefits, but like any platform, it also has limitations. Here is an overview of the key advantages and disadvantages of trading with FBS:

Pros

  • Low Minimum Deposit: A minimum deposit of just $1 for a Cent account makes FBS accessible to beginners and traders with smaller budgets.
  • High Leverage: FBS offers leverage of up to 1:3000, allowing traders to control larger positions with less capital.
  • Competitive Spreads: Spreads start from 0 pips on major forex pairs, helping to reduce trading costs.
  • Wide Range of Instruments: Traders can access forex, commodities, indices, and CFDs, enabling them to diversify their portfolios.
  • 24/7 Customer Support: Support is available via live chat, email, and phone.

Cons

  • Limited Account Types: FBS offers fewer account types than some other brokers, with no ECN or VIP accounts.
  • Withdrawal Fees: While deposits are generally free, withdrawal fees may apply depending on the method used.
  • Limited Research Tools: Although educational resources are available, FBS offers fewer advanced research tools than some competitors.

FBS offers a solid range of features, making it suitable for many traders. However, it may not be ideal for those seeking advanced account types or a broader range of research tools.

Conclusion

FBS is a user-friendly and accessible forex broker that may appeal to beginners and experienced traders. With its low minimum deposit requirement, leverage of up to 1:3000, and tight spreads, FBS offers competitive conditions for those looking to trade forex and other asset classes, such as commodities and indices.

The broker’s use of the MetaTrader 5 platform gives traders access to a powerful and intuitive interface with advanced tools for technical analysis, automated trading, and multi-asset trading. Additionally, the Copy Trading feature allows beginners to follow the strategies of more experienced traders.

FBS also provides 24/7 customer support, various deposit and withdrawal options, and a range of educational resources. However, limitations such as the lack of advanced account types and research tools may be a consideration for more experienced traders.

Overall, FBS is an accessible option for traders of different experience levels seeking a global trading platform with competitive conditions.

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 2500 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.