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Side-by-Side Comparison Independent Updated Oct 2, 2026

City Index vs HYCM 2026: Which Broker is Better?

In the world of online trading, City Index and HYCM stand out as established brokers with distinct offerings tailored to different types of traders. City Index, with its strong research tools and broad market access, appeals to traders who value extensive market coverage and no minimum deposit requirement. In contrast, HYCM attracts traders seeking high leverage and diverse account types, particularly those interested in the Middle Eastern and Asian markets. The key difference lies in City Index's proprietary platforms and market research versus HYCM's use of the popular MT4 and MT5 platforms and its focus on competitive spreads.

City Index

HYCM

Higher ratedCity Index logo

City Index

4.1/ 5
Visit City Index →Full review
VS
City IndexHYCM
BrokerRank Score4.1/5 ✓3.6/5
Min. Deposit$0 ✓$100
Spread from0.5 pips0.2 pips ✓
Max Leverage1:2001:500 ✓
RegulationFCA, ASIC, MASFCA, CySEC, DFSA
PlatformsProprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4MT4, MT5
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
City IndexHYCM
Best for Low Fees
HYCMCity Index
Best for Regulation
City IndexHYCM
Best Overall
City IndexHYCM
Quick Answer

City Index is the better choice overall, scoring 4.1/5 vs 3.6/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, HYCM offers lower spreads (0.2 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

City Index vs HYCM: Key Differences

Feature

City Index

Winner

HYCM

Our Rating
4.1 / 5
3.6 / 5
Min. Deposit
$0
$100
Max Leverage
Spread From
0.5 pips
0.2 pips
Commission
None
None
Regulated By
Platforms
Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4
MT4, MT5
Markets
Cfd, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities
Forex, Cfd, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
Founded
1983
1977
Headquarters
London, UK
London, UK
Score
3 / 4
1 / 4

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Fees Comparison

Fee

City Index

HYCM

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

BrokerRank Verdict

In the comparison between City Index and HYCM, City Index emerges as the better choice for beginners due to its user-friendly proprietary platforms and the absence of a minimum deposit requirement. Professional traders may prefer HYCM, benefiting from its lower spreads starting at 0.2 pips and higher leverage options up to 1:500. On fees, City Index offers a competitive edge with zero commission and no minimum deposit, although both brokers charge an inactivity fee.

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 platforms (3 supported)
HYCM

HYCM

3.6/5

Choose HYCM if you want…

  • Tighter spreads (from 0.2 pips)
  • Higher leverage (up to 1:500)
  • More market types (6)
  • More established (est. 1977)

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.

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4.3
FCA
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FxPro
4.1
FCA
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4.0
MAS
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Plus500
4.0
MAS
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80% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Both City Index & HYCM are available in

Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is City Index better than HYCM?

City Index scores higher overall on our independent rating system. City Index holds a 4.1/5 rating vs HYCM's 3.6/5. 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 HYCM?

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

3

What is the minimum deposit for City Index vs HYCM?

City Index requires a minimum deposit of $0. HYCM requires $100.

4

Which broker is safer, City Index or HYCM?

City Index is regulated by FCA, ASIC, MAS, while HYCM holds licences from FCA, CySEC, DFSA.

5

What trading platforms do City Index and HYCM support?

City Index supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4. HYCM supports MT4, MT5.

6

Can I use both City Index and HYCM?

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

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