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Side-by-Side Comparison Independent Updated Oct 29, 2026

HSBC InvestDirect vs CMC Markets 2026: Which Broker is Better?

Compare HSBC InvestDirect and CMC Markets side by side on fees, regulation, platforms and our expert ratings. Find out which broker suits your needs.

HSBC InvestDirect

CMC Markets

Higher ratedCMC Markets logo

CMC Markets

4.0/ 5
Visit CMC Markets →Full review
VS
HSBC InvestDirectCMC Markets
BrokerRank Score3.4/54.0/5 ✓
Min. Deposit$0$0
Spread from0 pips ✓0.7 pips
Max Leverage1:51:500 ✓
RegulationFCA, SFC, MASFCA, ASIC, MAS
PlatformsProprietary Web, Proprietary MobileProprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4
Quick VerdictBrokerRank recommends
Best for Beginners
HSBC InvestDirectCMC Markets
Best for Low Fees
HSBC InvestDirectCMC Markets
Best for Regulation
HSBC InvestDirectCMC Markets
Best Overall
CMC MarketsHSBC InvestDirect
Quick Answer

CMC Markets is the better choice overall, scoring 4.0/5 vs 3.4/5 on BrokerRank's independent rating. On fees, HSBC InvestDirect offers lower spreads (0 pips).

See full side-by-side comparison below

HSBC InvestDirect vs CMC Markets: Key Differences

Feature

HSBC InvestDirect

CMC Markets

Winner
Our Rating
3.4 / 5
4.0 / 5
Min. Deposit
$0
$0
Max Leverage
Spread From
0 pips
0.7 pips
Commission
$10.5/lot
None
Regulated By
Platforms
Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile
Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4
Markets
Stocks, Etf, Indices
Cfd, Forex, Stocks, Indices, Commodities, Crypto
Founded
1991
1989
Headquarters
London, UK
London, UK
Score
1 / 4
3 / 4

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Fees Comparison

Fee

HSBC InvestDirect

CMC Markets

Spread From
0 pips
0.7 pips
Commission
$10.5/lot
None
Deposit Fee
None
None
Withdrawal Fee
None
None

BrokerRank Verdict

HSBC InvestDirect scores 3.43/5 while CMC Markets scores 4.04/5 in our independent rating.

CMC Markets edges ahead overall, but HSBC InvestDirect may suit traders who prioritise different features. Read our full reviews for a detailed breakdown. Scores are based on our transparent methodology.

Who Should Choose Which?

HSBC InvestDirect

HSBC InvestDirect

3.4/5

Choose HSBC InvestDirect if you want…

  • Tighter spreads (from 0 pips)
CMC Markets

CMC Markets

4.0/5

Top pick

Choose CMC Markets if you want…

  • Higher overall rating (4.0/5)
  • No per-trade commission
  • Higher leverage (up to 1:500)
  • More market types (6)

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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#4AvaTrade logo
AvaTrade
4.0
MAS
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#5Plus500 logo
Plus500
4.0
MAS
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80% of retail CFD accounts lose money.

Both HSBC InvestDirect & CMC Markets are available in

Frequently Asked Questions

1

Is HSBC InvestDirect better than CMC Markets?

CMC Markets scores higher overall on our independent rating system. HSBC InvestDirect holds a 3.4/5 rating vs CMC Markets's 4.0/5. The best choice ultimately depends on your trading style — see our full verdict above for a detailed breakdown.

2

Which has lower fees, HSBC InvestDirect or CMC Markets?

HSBC InvestDirect offers spreads from 0 pips, while CMC Markets starts at 0.7 pips. Check the fees section above for a full breakdown.

3

What is the minimum deposit for HSBC InvestDirect vs CMC Markets?

HSBC InvestDirect requires a minimum deposit of $0. CMC Markets requires $0.

4

Which broker is safer, HSBC InvestDirect or CMC Markets?

HSBC InvestDirect is regulated by FCA, SFC, MAS, while CMC Markets holds licences from FCA, ASIC, MAS.

5

What trading platforms do HSBC InvestDirect and CMC Markets support?

HSBC InvestDirect supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile. CMC Markets supports Proprietary Web, Proprietary Mobile, MT4.

6

Can I use both HSBC InvestDirect and CMC Markets?

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

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