Skip to main content
Side-by-Side Comparison Independent Updated Oct 2, 2026

City Index vs FXCM 2026: Which Broker is Better?

In the competitive world of online trading, City Index and FXCM stand out as prominent brokers, each catering to different types of traders. City Index, with a rating of 4.06/5 and over 40 years of experience, appeals to traders seeking a broad market range and strong research tools, making it ideal for those interested in CFDs and comprehensive market analysis. In contrast, FXCM, rated 3.66/5, attracts forex enthusiasts with its low spreads and robust educational resources, offering greater leverage and automated trading support, though its product range is more limited. The key difference lies in City Index’s extensive market offerings and no minimum deposit requirement, versus FXCM’s focus on forex trading with higher leverage options.

City Index

FXCM

Higher ratedCity Index logo

City Index

4.1/ 5
Visit City Index →Full review
VS
City IndexFXCM
BrokerRank Score4.1/5 ✓3.7/5
Min. Deposit$0 ✓$50
Spread from0.5 pips0.2 pips ✓
Max Leverage1:2001:400 ✓
RegulationFCA, ASIC, MAS ✓FCA, ASIC
PlatformsProprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4MT4, Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
City IndexFXCM
Best for Low Fees
FXCMCity Index
Best for Regulation
City IndexFXCM
Best Overall
City IndexFXCM
Quick Answer

City Index is the better choice overall, scoring 4.1/5 vs 3.7/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, FXCM offers lower spreads (0.2 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

City Index vs FXCM: Key Differences

Feature

City Index

Winner

FXCM

Our Rating
4.1 / 5
3.7 / 5
Min. Deposit
$0
$50
Max Leverage
Spread From
0.5 pips
0.2 pips
Commission
None
None
Regulated By
Platforms
Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4
MT4, Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile
Markets
Cfd, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities
Forex, Cfd, Indices, Commodities
Founded
1983
1999
Headquarters
London, UK
London, UK
Score
3 / 4
1 / 4

Still deciding between City Index and FXCM?

Skip the back-and-forth — answer 4 quick questions and we'll match you to your best fit.

Matching for:Travelling or on a VPN? Change it.
Find my match

Fees Comparison

Fee

City Index

FXCM

Lower fees
Spread From
0.5 pips
0.2 pips
Commission
None
None
Deposit Fee
None
None
Withdrawal Fee
None
None

BrokerRank Verdict

City Index is better suited for professional traders due to its extensive market access, strong research resources, and long-standing industry presence. FXCM, with its lower spreads and robust educational support, is more beginner-friendly, offering a conducive learning environment for new traders. When it comes to fees, FXCM has the edge with spreads starting from 0.2 pips, compared to City Index's 0.5 pips, although both brokers offer commission-free trading.

Who Should Choose Which?

City Index

City Index

4.1/5

Top pick

Choose City Index if you want…

  • Higher overall rating (4.1/5)
  • No minimum deposit
  • More regulatory licences (3)
  • More market types (5)
FXCM

FXCM

3.7/5

Choose FXCM if you want…

  • Tighter spreads (from 0.2 pips)
  • Higher leverage (up to 1:400)

Also consider

View all rankings

We earn a commission when you open an account through these links, at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are scored independently — see the full independent ranking.

#1ForTrade logo
ForTrade
4.3
FCA
Visit
#2FxPro logo
FxPro
4.1
FCA
Visit
#3Plus500 logo
Plus500
4.0
MAS
Visit

80% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

#4AvaTrade logo
AvaTrade
4.0
MAS
Visit
#6XM logo
XM
3.9
Visit

Both City Index & FXCM are available in

Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is City Index better than FXCM?

City Index scores higher overall on our independent rating system. City Index holds a 4.1/5 rating vs FXCM's 3.7/5. The best choice ultimately depends on your trading style — see our full verdict above for a detailed breakdown.

2

Which has lower fees, City Index or FXCM?

City Index offers spreads from 0.5 pips, while FXCM starts at 0.2 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.

3

What is the minimum deposit for City Index vs FXCM?

City Index requires a minimum deposit of $0. FXCM requires $50.

4

Which broker is safer, City Index or FXCM?

City Index is regulated by FCA, ASIC, MAS, while FXCM holds licences from FCA, ASIC.

5

What trading platforms do City Index and FXCM support?

City Index supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4. FXCM supports MT4, Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile.

6

Can I use both City Index and FXCM?

Yes, you can hold accounts at multiple brokers simultaneously. Many traders diversify across platforms to access different markets and tools.

Key Trading Terms

Related Guides

More Comparisons

BrokerRank Research

Trading involves risk. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Capital at risk. Full risk disclosure.

Featured

Deriv

4.0
Open Account

Capital at risk · T&Cs apply