Markets.com Trading Broker Review

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

If you are looking for a secure broker that offers a wide range of trading instruments, Markets.com should be on your radar. This well-respected brand provides access to numerous markets, including forex, stocks, commodities, cryptocurrencies, indices, ETFs and bonds.

Operating under Safecap Investments Limited, a company incorporated in Cyprus, Markets.com is regulated by leading financial authorities such as CySEC, the FCA in the UK and ASIC in Australia. With these licences, Markets.com operates globally and serves millions of traders worldwide.

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:
Markets.com offers CFD markets in shares, commodities, crypto, ETF markets, bonds, and of course, currencies. The firm has the ability to offer social trading, as well as a web platform, TradingView, and the MetaTrader ecosystem. Markets.com is regulated in Cyprus, South Africa, and St. Vincent in the Grenadines. Markets.com also has a helpful and useful trading Academy for new traders to learn about the various markets it offers.

At-a-glance Statistics

Number of Tradable FX pairs
Number of Regulators
TrustPilot Rating
Number of TrustPilot Reviews
Traffic & Engagement
  • Total visits, December 2024:199,966
  • Device distribution:
  • Desktop: 37.50%
  • Mobile: 62.50%
  • Visit duration: 00:01:41
Social Traffic
  • Visitors:
  • Youtube: 46.37%
  • LinkedIn: 24.35%
  • Reddit: 4.60%
  • WhatsApp: 9.53%
  • Telegram: 13.64%
  • Other: 1.51%
Geographic Distribution of Markets.com Website Traffic

Markets.com Contact Information

Markets.com’s suite of platforms, including MetaTrader 4, MT5 and the broker’s proprietary web trader, offers advanced tools for market analysis and trade execution. A mobile application is also available and can be downloaded from Google Play or the App Store.

With its competitive spreads, versatile selection of account types and strong security measures, Markets.com has attracted traders worldwide. If you are considering giving Markets.com a try, read on as we explore what this brokerage has to offer.

Important: Markets.com is regulated by multiple top-tier authorities (FCA, CySEC, ASIC), offers negative balance protection, segregated client funds and a broad choice of assets across MT4, MT5 and its web trader. Before opening an account, remember that CFDs are complex instruments that carry a high risk of rapid capital loss. Ensure you understand how leverage works and practise on a demo account first.

General Information about Markets.com

Regulators Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission, Financial Sector Conduct Authority
Min. Deposit $100
Trading Platforms MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, Proprietary Web, TradingView
Number of Forex pairs 55
Account Security and Protections Negative Balance Protection

Account Information

Account Types Demo Account, Retail Account, Pro Account, Islamic Account
ECN Account Not Available
Pro Account Available
MAM Account Not Available

Trading Information

Markets Bonds CFDs, Commodity CFDs, Crypto CFDs, ETF CFDs, Forex CFDs, Index CFDs, Metal CFDs, Share CFDs
Min Contact Size 0.01
Max Contract Size 30
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 Classic Account AVG 0.9 pips
Crypto CFDs Bitcoin any AVG 97.61 pips
any Cardano any AVG 0.01 pips
any Dogecoin any AVG 0 pips
any Ethereum any AVG 3.5 pips
any EURGBP any AVG 1.4 pips
any EURUSD Classic Account AVG 0.9 pips
any GBPUSD Classic Account AVG 1.1 pips
any Gold Classic Account AVG 25 pips
any NZDUSD Classic Account AVG 2.1 pips
any Ripple any AVG 0.01 pips
any Solana any AVG 0.63 pips
any USDCAD Classic Account AVG 1.6 pips
any USDCHF Classic Account AVG 2 pips
any USDCNY any AVG 3 pips
any USDJPY Classic Account AVG 0.9 pips

Leverage

Metal CFDs 1:200 (CySEC | Pro Account)
Metal CFDs 1:20 (CySEC | Retail Account)
Metal CFDs 1:200 (FSCA)
Bonds CFDs 1:100 (CySEC | Pro Account)
Bonds CFDs 1:5 (CySEC | Retail Account)
Bonds CFDs 1:100 (FSCA)
Commodity CFDs 1:100 (CySEC | Pro Account)
Commodity CFDs 1:10 (CySEC | Retail Account)
Commodity CFDs 1:100 (FSCA)
Crypto CFDs 1:5 (CySEC | Pro Account)
Crypto CFDs 1:2 (CySEC | Retail Account)
Crypto CFDs 1:200 (FSCA)
ETF CFDs 1:100 (CySEC | Pro Account)
ETF CFDs 1:5 (CySEC | Retail Account)
ETF CFDs 1:10 (FSCA)
Forex CFDs 1:294 (CySEC | Pro Account)
Forex CFDs 1:30 (CySEC | Retail Account)
Forex CFDs 1:300 (FSCA)
Index CFDs 1:200 (CySEC | Pro Account)
Index CFDs 1:20 (CySEC | Retail Account)
Index CFDs 1:200 (FSCA)
Share CFDs 1:10 (CySEC | Pro Account)
Share CFDs 1:5 (CySEC | Standard Account)
Share CFDs 1:10 (FSCA)

Deposit Methods

Visa CardNot Available
MasterCardNot Available
PaypalNot Available
Credit/Debit CardAvailable
AmexNot Available
Bank/Wire TransferAvailable
CryptoAvailable
BitcoinNot Available
SkrillAvailable
NetellerAvailable
Google PayNot Available
Apple PayNot Available
PayidNot Available
USDTNot Available
TetherNot Available
AstropayNot Available

Regulations and Security

Markets.com prioritises safety and transparency by operating under stringent regulatory oversight. It is authorised and regulated by several global entities, including:

  • Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC)
  • Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK
  • Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC)
  • FSCA in South Africa

These licences require Markets.com to adhere to strict operational standards, including the segregation of client funds, regular audits and compliance with anti-money-laundering (AML) practices.

Client funds are held in segregated accounts with top-tier banks, helping to reduce risk and protect client assets. Additionally, Markets.com’s negative balance protection ensures that traders cannot lose more than their initial deposit, providing an important safeguard for risk management.

The platform employs advanced encryption technology to protect personal data and transactions, providing a secure online trading experience. Markets.com’s transparent fee structure and compliance with global regulatory frameworks further support its reputation as a trustworthy broker in the online trading industry.

Account Types and Features

Markets.com offers a variety of account types tailored to different trading needs, providing flexibility for traders of all experience levels:

  • Retail Account

    Designed for individual traders, this account type provides competitive spreads, access to all trading platforms and leverage up to 1:30. Retail traders benefit from risk management tools such as negative balance protection, making it a suitable choice for beginners and intermediate investors.

  • Professional Account

    Suited to experienced traders, the Professional Account offers higher leverage of up to 1:300, providing greater flexibility for sophisticated trading strategies. Professional traders also receive access to exclusive analytical tools, tailored services and priority customer support. Eligibility requires applicants to meet specific criteria, including those related to trading volume and financial expertise.

  • Islamic Account

    Markets.com caters to clients who observe Sharia law with its swap-free Islamic account. This account does not charge interest on overnight positions, aligning with ethical and religious requirements while providing the same features as standard accounts.

  • Demo Account

    Suitable for beginners or traders testing new strategies, the Demo Account provides a risk-free trading environment with virtual funds. It allows users to familiarise themselves with the platform’s features and practise trading various instruments without financial risk.

Each account type is designed to meet different trading requirements while providing access to Markets.com’s extensive resources and tools.

Opening an Account with Markets.com

The initial account application with Markets.com is straightforward and can typically be completed in a few minutes:

  1. Registration: Visit Markets.com’s website and click on ‘Sign Up’. You will be prompted to enter your personal details, including your name, email address, telephone number and country of residence. Ensure that all details are accurate, as this information will be used for verification purposes.
  2. Verification: Complete the Know Your Customer (KYC) process, a standard requirement for compliance with regulatory guidelines. This involves uploading a government-issued identification document, such as a passport or driving licence, and proof of address, such as a recent utility bill or bank statement. Verification typically takes 24 to 48 hours.
  3. Account Preferences: Choose the account type that suits your trading style and specify your preferred currency. You may also be required to answer a short questionnaire assessing your trading experience, risk appetite and financial knowledge.
  4. Deposit Funds: Once your account is approved, make your initial deposit using one of the available payment methods. Markets.com supports credit and debit cards, bank transfers and e-wallets such as PayPal and Skrill. The minimum deposit varies depending on your region and chosen account type.
  5. Start Trading: After funding your account, log in to the trading platform, explore the available instruments and start trading. Use the demo account if you are new to trading or want to test strategies in a risk-free environment.

Markets.com’s streamlined account-opening process provides a straightforward experience for beginners and professional traders alike.

Trading Platforms

Markets.com provides a versatile suite of trading platforms for users of different experience levels:

  • MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5): Widely used platforms known for their extensive charting capabilities, algorithmic trading features and customisable interfaces. MT4 is well suited to forex trading, while MT5 supports a broader range of assets and more advanced analytical tools.
  • Mobile Trading: Markets.com’s platforms are available as mobile apps, allowing traders to monitor markets and execute trades while on the go. The mobile platforms provide the functionality of their desktop counterparts, along with responsive interfaces and push notifications for real-time updates.
  • Web Trader: This browser-based platform requires no download. It combines a straightforward interface with powerful features, allowing traders to access their accounts from any internet-connected device.

Markets.com’s platform options accommodate a range of trading styles and preferences.

Trading Instruments

Markets.com provides an extensive selection of trading instruments across various asset classes, catering to diverse trading strategies.

  • Forex

    Trade over 70 currency pairs, including major pairs such as EUR/USD, minor pairs such as AUD/NZD and exotic options such as USD/TRY. With tight spreads starting from 0.6 pips and leverage up to 1:30 for retail clients, Markets.com offers competitive forex trading conditions for beginners and experienced traders.

  • Stocks

    Access thousands of shares from global markets, covering leading companies listed on exchanges such as the NASDAQ, the NYSE and the LSE. Leverage of up to 1:5 allows traders to take positions on well-known companies without owning the underlying assets. Markets.com provides variable spreads to accommodate short-term and long-term trading strategies.

  • Indices

    Speculate on the performance of global indices such as the S&P 500, FTSE 100, DAX 40 and Nikkei 225. Leverage of up to 1:20 and spreads starting at 1 point provide opportunities to trade market trends and diversify portfolios.

  • Commodities

    Diversify your trading with energy products such as crude oil and natural gas, precious metals such as gold and silver, and agricultural commodities such as coffee and wheat. Leverage varies by product, with spreads starting as low as 0.03 points for energy markets and 0.3 points for gold.

  • Cryptocurrencies

    Trade CFDs on popular digital currencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum and Ripple. Cryptocurrencies are available with capped leverage of 1:2 for retail clients due to their high volatility. Spreads start at $25 for Bitcoin.

  • ETFs and Bonds

    Explore diversified exposure through ETF CFDs or take positions in bond CFDs. These instruments provide additional ways to trade broader market themes or manage risk.

Markets.com’s broad range of instruments, combined with flexible leverage and competitive spreads, provides options for different types of traders.

Trading Conditions

Markets.com offers competitive trading conditions, including tight spreads starting as low as 0.6 pips on major forex pairs.

The platform offers variable leverage depending on the asset class and regulatory jurisdiction. Retail clients can access leverage up to 1:30, while professional clients can use higher leverage of up to 1:300. Efficient execution helps reduce slippage and supports reliable order fulfilment.

Other features include negative balance protection, which ensures that traders do not incur losses beyond their deposits. Advanced risk management tools, such as stop-loss, take-profit and trailing stop orders, also help users manage their trading risk.

Deposits and Withdrawals

Markets.com supports several secure deposit and withdrawal methods, providing flexibility and transparency for traders. Below is a structured overview:

Deposit Methods

  • Options: Deposits can be made using credit and debit cards, bank transfers and e-wallets such as PayPal, Skrill and Neteller.
  • Processing Time: Deposits are typically processed instantly, allowing traders to fund their accounts without delay.
  • Fees: Markets.com does not charge deposit fees. However, some payment providers may impose their own charges.
  • Security: All transactions are encrypted using advanced SSL technology to protect user data and prevent fraud.

Withdrawal Methods

  • Options: Withdrawals are available through the same methods used for deposits: credit and debit cards, bank transfers and e-wallets.
  • Processing Time: Withdrawals are processed within 24 to 48 hours. The exact time may vary depending on the payment method.
  • Fees: Most withdrawals are free. Bank transfers may incur a small fee depending on the provider.
  • Security: Rigorous verification processes help ensure that funds are withdrawn only to authorised accounts.

Markets.com’s transparent policies, processing times and security measures provide a reliable environment for managing funds.

Copy Trading and Additional Services

Markets.com offers copy trading, a feature that enables users to replicate the strategies of experienced investors. This service can help beginners observe how experienced investors approach the markets. With access to a curated list of top-performing traders, users can select and follow strategies that align with their financial goals and risk appetite.

In addition to copy trading, Markets.com provides a suite of advanced tools and services. These include sentiment analysis, which provides insights into market trends by tracking investor behaviour, and integrated financial news, which delivers real-time updates to inform trading decisions. Educational resources, such as webinars, tutorials and interactive guides, are also available to help traders build their knowledge and confidence.

Markets.com’s focus on innovation and user support gives traders access to resources and tools for developing and refining their trading strategies.

Customer Support

Markets.com’s customer support service assists traders of all experience levels. The platform offers multilingual support through several communication channels, including live chat, email and telephone. Live chat provides real-time responses, making it particularly useful for urgent concerns such as technical issues or platform navigation. Support is typically available 24 hours a day, five days a week, during market hours.

For more complex enquiries, email support provides detailed, documented responses within 24 to 48 hours. Telephone support offers direct and personalised communication, which can be particularly useful for resolving account-related issues. Markets.com also provides an extensive FAQ section and knowledge base on its website, covering topics such as account setup, deposit and withdrawal processes, and trading platform features.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Wide range of trading instruments, including forex, stocks, commodities and cryptocurrencies.
  • User-friendly platforms with advanced tools and features.
  • Multiple account types catering to diverse trading needs, including an Islamic account and a demo account.
  • Regulated by top-tier authorities, supporting a secure trading environment.
  • Transparent fee structure with no hidden charges.
  • Responsive, multilingual customer support.

Cons

  • Limited availability of customer support outside market hours.
  • Leverage restrictions for retail clients may deter high-risk traders.
  • Advanced tools on proprietary platforms may involve a learning curve for beginners.

Conclusion

Markets.com is a versatile, user-friendly trading platform that caters to traders with different levels of experience. With its extensive range of instruments, advanced trading platforms and strong regulatory oversight, it provides a secure and efficient trading environment. The platform also offers a clear fee structure and a comprehensive customer support service.

Although leverage limits for retail clients and restricted support hours may be drawbacks for some users, Markets.com offers a broad selection of tools and resources. Whether you are a beginner looking to develop your skills or an experienced trader seeking advanced tools and customisation options, Markets.com provides features designed to support a range of trading needs.

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.