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

CMC Markets vs FXCM 2026: Which Broker is Better?

In the realm of online trading, CMC Markets and FXCM are two prominent brokers headquartered in London, each catering to different trading needs. CMC Markets, with its award-winning Next Generation platform and extensive range of over 10,000 instruments, appeals to traders seeking a comprehensive CFD and forex trading experience without a minimum deposit requirement. In contrast, FXCM attracts forex traders looking for low spreads, particularly on major currency pairs, and those interested in automated trading, albeit with a smaller product range. The key difference lies in CMC Markets' broader market offerings and higher leverage, compared to FXCM's focus on forex and competitive spreads.

CMC Markets

FXCM

Higher ratedCMC Markets logo

CMC Markets

4.0/ 5
Visit CMC Markets →Full review
VS
CMC MarketsFXCM
BrokerRank Score4.0/5 ✓3.7/5
Min. Deposit$0 ✓$50
Spread from0.7 pips0.2 pips ✓
Max Leverage1:500 ✓1:400
RegulationFCA, ASIC, MAS ✓FCA, ASIC
PlatformsProprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4MT4, Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
CMC MarketsFXCM
Best for Low Fees
FXCMCMC Markets
Best for Regulation
CMC MarketsFXCM
Best Overall
CMC MarketsFXCM
Quick Answer

CMC Markets is the better choice overall, scoring 4.0/5 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

CMC Markets vs FXCM: Key Differences

Feature

CMC Markets

Winner

FXCM

Our Rating
4.0 / 5
3.7 / 5
Min. Deposit
$0
$50
Max Leverage
Spread From
0.7 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, Crypto
Forex, Cfd, Indices, Commodities
Founded
1989
1999
Headquarters
London, UK
London, UK
Score
3 / 4
1 / 4

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Fees Comparison

Fee

CMC Markets

FXCM

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

BrokerRank Verdict

In the CMC Markets vs FXCM comparison, CMC Markets emerges as the better choice for professional traders due to its extensive range of over 10,000 instruments and higher leverage of up to 1:500. Beginners would benefit more from FXCM's strong educational content and lower minimum deposit requirement of $50. When it comes to fees, FXCM takes the lead with lower spreads starting from 0.2 pips, making it a cost-effective option for cost-conscious traders.

Who Should Choose Which?

CMC Markets

CMC Markets

4.0/5

Top pick

Choose CMC Markets if you want…

  • Higher overall rating (4.0/5)
  • No minimum deposit
  • Higher leverage (up to 1:500)
  • More regulatory licences (3)
FXCM

FXCM

3.7/5

Choose FXCM if you want…

  • Tighter spreads (from 0.2 pips)

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
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#2FxPro logo
FxPro
4.1
FCA
Visit
#4AvaTrade logo
AvaTrade
4.0
MAS
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#5Plus500 logo
Plus500
4.0
MAS
Visit

80% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Both CMC Markets & FXCM are available in

Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is CMC Markets better than FXCM?

CMC Markets scores higher overall on our independent rating system. CMC Markets holds a 4.0/5 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, CMC Markets or FXCM?

CMC Markets offers spreads from 0.7 pips, while FXCM starts at 0.2 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.

3

What is the minimum deposit for CMC Markets vs FXCM?

CMC Markets requires a minimum deposit of $0. FXCM requires $50.

4

Which broker is safer, CMC Markets or FXCM?

CMC Markets is regulated by FCA, ASIC, MAS, while FXCM holds licences from FCA, ASIC.

5

What trading platforms do CMC Markets and FXCM support?

CMC Markets supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4. FXCM supports MT4, Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile.

6

Can I use both CMC Markets and FXCM?

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

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