Choose CMC Markets if you want…
Discretionary traders wanting deep instrument coverage and a sophisticated proprietary platform from a publicly-listed UK broker.
CMC Markets
⭐ 4.5 / 5
VS
FXTM
⭐ 4.4 / 5
CMC Markets vs FXTM — which broker is better in 2026?
We compared CMC Markets and FXTM across five core criteria: regulation, minimum deposit, spreads, platform choice, and overall user rating. CMC Markets wins on more criteria (3 categories vs 1), making it the stronger default for most traders. Both brokers remain reputable, independently tier-1 regulated options.
| CMC Markets | FXTM | Winner | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | ⭐ 4.5 / 5 | ⭐ 4.4 / 5 | CMC Markets |
| Regulators | FCA, ASIC, BaFin, MAS, FMA NZ, IIROC, MA Poland | FCA, CySEC, FSCA, FSC Mauritius | CMC Markets |
| Min. deposit | $0 (no minimum) | $10 | CMC Markets |
| Spreads from | 0.7 pips (Next Generation) | 0.0 pips (ECN Zero) | FXTM |
| Max. leverage | Up to 1:30 (EU retail) / 1:500 (Professional) | Up to 1:30 (EU retail) / 1:1000 (offshore) | — |
| Platforms | CMC Next Generation, MT4, CMC Mobile | MT4, MT5, FXTM Trader app | Tie |
| Founded | 1989 | 2011 | — |
| HQ | London, United Kingdom | Limassol, Cyprus / Mauritius | — |
Pros & cons compared
CMC Markets pros
- ✓ Founded 1989 — among the oldest CFD brokers (LSE: CMCX)
- ✓ FCA, ASIC, BaFin, MAS — tier-1 regulators across major financial centres
- ✓ 12,000+ instruments — one of the broadest catalogues in retail CFDs
- ✓ Award-winning proprietary 'Next Generation' platform
- ✓ No minimum deposit
Cons
- ✗ Proprietary platform has a learning curve vs. MT4
- ✗ Spread on FX 'Standard' account (0.7 pips) wider than ECN brokers
- ✗ Limited cryptocurrency CFD coverage
FXTM pros
- ✓ Regulated by FCA, CySEC, FSCA and FSC Mauritius
- ✓ Very low minimum deposit — start from $10
- ✓ ECN Zero account with spreads from 0.0 pips
- ✓ Strong presence and local support across Africa and Asia
- ✓ Extensive education and market analysis for beginners
Cons
- ✗ Inactivity fee after 6 months dormant
- ✗ Product range narrower than Exness or Pepperstone
- ✗ EU leverage capped at 1:30 (ESMA)
Which one should you choose?
Choose FXTM if you want…
Beginners and emerging-market traders who want low deposits, tight ECN spreads and strong local support.
CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. Between 74-89% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with FXTM. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better — CMC Markets or FXTM?
Based on five comparison criteria (regulation, deposit, spreads, platforms, overall rating), CMC Markets wins 3 categories. That makes it the stronger default choice — though both brokers remain reputable, independently tier-1 regulated options.
Is CMC Markets more regulated than FXTM?
CMC Markets holds licenses from: FCA, ASIC, BaFin, MAS, FMA NZ, IIROC, MA Poland. FXTM holds licenses from: FCA, CySEC, FSCA, FSC Mauritius. CMC Markets has more regulatory licenses, giving it broader geographic coverage.
What are the spreads at CMC Markets vs FXTM?
CMC Markets spreads start from 0.7 pips (Next Generation). FXTM spreads start from 0.0 pips (ECN Zero). Actual spreads vary by account type and market conditions.
Which has a lower minimum deposit, CMC Markets or FXTM?
CMC Markets: $0 (no minimum). FXTM: $10. CMC Markets has the lower entry barrier.
