Forex.com vs Rakuten Securities 2026: Which Broker is Better?

Regulation & Safety

Forex.com is a well-established broker regulated by several top-tier regulatory bodies, including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) in the US, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). This extensive regulatory oversight ensures a high level of safety for client funds, with stringent compliance requirements and fund protection schemes in place. As part of the publicly listed StoneX Group, Forex.com provides an additional layer of transparency and financial stability.

Rakuten Securities, headquartered in Tokyo, is regulated by the Financial Services Agency (FSA) of Japan, which is known for its rigorous standards and investor protection measures. While the FSA regulation provides a robust safety net for Japanese clients, the broker's focus on the Japanese market may limit its appeal to international traders seeking broader regulatory assurances. However, the integration of Rakuten Points offers a unique value proposition within the Rakuten ecosystem.

Fees & Spreads

Forex.com offers competitive spreads starting from 0.8 pips across major forex pairs, with no commission fees on transactions, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious traders. The minimum deposit requirement is $100, which is accessible for most retail traders. However, the broker does charge an inactivity fee, so active trading is encouraged to avoid additional costs. The maximum leverage offered is 1:200, allowing traders to amplify their positions significantly.

Rakuten Securities stands out with spreads starting from 0 pips, particularly appealing for forex traders seeking the tightest spreads possible. Like Forex.com, Rakuten Securities charges no commission fees, further enhancing its cost-effectiveness. With no minimum deposit, it provides a low barrier to entry for new traders. However, leverage is capped at 1:3, which may be restrictive for those looking to maximise their trading potential, especially in markets outside Japan.

Trading Platforms

Forex.com offers a variety of platforms, including the popular MetaTrader 4 and 5, as well as its proprietary Web and Mobile platforms. This range provides flexibility and caters to different trading styles, from algorithmic to manual trading. Rakuten Securities, on the other hand, provides its proprietary Web and Mobile platforms, along with MarketSpeed II, which is highly regarded for its advanced charting tools and real-time data, though primarily tailored for Japanese users.

Who Should Choose Forex.com?

• Traders seeking a broker with extensive global regulation and a strong safety net.
• US-based traders looking for a CFTC-regulated broker.
• Investors interested in a wide range of markets including forex, CFDs, and cryptocurrencies.
• Traders who prefer using MetaTrader platforms or require robust market research tools.

Who Should Choose Rakuten Securities?

• Traders based in Japan or those who prefer conducting transactions in Japanese.
• Cost-conscious investors seeking zero commission on stocks and ETFs.
• Users interested in leveraging the Rakuten Points system for additional benefits.
• Investors focused on trading US stocks with strong access to American markets.

Our Verdict

Forex.com emerges as the better choice for beginners due to its extensive global presence and comprehensive market offerings. For professionals, Forex.com's higher leverage and diverse platform options make it the superior choice. In terms of fees, Rakuten Securities provides a more cost-effective solution with zero commission and no minimum deposit.