CMC Markets vs XTB 2026: Which Broker is Better?

Regulation & Safety

CMC Markets and XTB are both highly regarded in the financial trading industry, thanks to their robust regulatory frameworks. CMC Markets, founded in 1989 and headquartered in London, is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). These regulatory bodies are synonymous with high standards of financial safety, ensuring that client funds are well-protected and segregated.

In contrast, XTB, established in 2002 with its headquarters in Warsaw, Poland, is regulated by the FCA in the UK and the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC). Both FCA and CySEC are reputable regulatory authorities ensuring client protection through segregation of funds and adherence to stringent financial practices. Both brokers provide robust fund protection schemes, with CMC Markets offering additional assurance through its broader regulatory reach in Asia-Pacific regions.

Fees & Spreads

CMC Markets offers competitive spreads starting from 0.7 pips with no commission charges, making it an attractive choice for traders looking to minimize trading costs. The broker also has no minimum deposit requirement, providing flexibility for beginners. However, traders should be aware of CMC Markets' inactivity fee, which applies after 12 months of dormancy.

XTB, on the other hand, provides spreads starting from a low 0.1 pips, also with zero commission on trades. This is particularly beneficial for traders focused on cost efficiency. Similar to CMC Markets, XTB does not require a minimum deposit, adding to its appeal for novice traders. Like its counterpart, XTB has an inactivity fee that kicks in after a year without trading activity.

Trading Platforms

CMC Markets offers a robust trading experience with its proprietary web and mobile platforms, along with support for MetaTrader 4 (MT4). The award-winning Next Generation platform is particularly noted for its advanced charting tools and numerous technical indicators. XTB, meanwhile, operates its award-winning xStation platform, known for its user-friendly interface and strong educational content, although it lacks support for MetaTrader 5 (MT5). Both brokers provide a comprehensive trading experience, but CMC Markets stands out for those who value MT4 compatibility.

Who Should Choose CMC Markets?

• Traders seeking a wide range of instruments, over 10,000 available.
• Investors looking for a broker with a strong regulatory framework.
• Traders planning to use the MT4 platform for its tools.
• Clients who prefer no minimum deposit and high leverage up to 1:500.

Who Should Choose XTB?

• Cost-conscious traders seeking low spreads starting at 0.1 pips.
• Investors interested in zero commission charges on real stocks.
• Beginners who benefit from strong educational content.
• Traders preferring the user-friendly xStation platform.

Our Verdict

For beginners, XTB's user-friendly platform and educational resources make it the preferable choice. For professional traders, CMC Markets' comprehensive instrument range and MT4 support edge out. In terms of fees, XTB's lower spreads give it a slight advantage.