Best CFD Brokers & Trading Platforms

Best CFD trading platforms, also known as contracts for difference brokers, allow traders to speculate on the price movements of financial instruments without owning the underlying asset. CFD trading is popular because it allows traders to take advantage of both rising and falling markets, and it offers the ability to use leverage to increase potential returns. This is a list and review of the best CFD brokers.

Best CFD Brokers

This table lists the top CFD brokers that operate in various countries around the world, including Australia, the UK, Canada, South Africa, Germany, and Singapore. Each broker is listed with a checkmark in the countries where they offer their services. The table is intended to provide a quick overview of the availability of CFD brokers in different regions.

Best CFD Broker	Australia	UK	Canada	South Africa	Germany	Singapore
IG Markets	X	X	X	X	X	X
Plus500	X	X	X	X	X	X
CMC Markets	X	X	X	X	X	X
Pepperstone	X
eToro	X
Saxo Capital Markets	X	X	X	X	X	X
TD Ameritrade	X
City Index	X	X	X
FP Markets	X	X
OvalX (ETX Capital)		X
Hargreaves Lansdown		X
Interactive Brokers			X
Q8 Trade			X
easyMarkets				X
IG South Africa				X
ForexTime				X	X	X
TradeFW				X	X	X
Trade.com					X	X

Ranking criteria: When ranking the best CFD brokers, the following factors are considered:

Fees: This includes spreads, commissions, and overnight financing charges.
Trading platforms: This includes the variety and functionality of the broker’s web-based, mobile, and desktop platforms.
Trading tools: This includes market analysis, news, and educational materials.
Account types: This includes the variety of account types offered by the broker, such as standard, VIP, and demo accounts.
Regulation and safety: This includes the regulatory bodies that oversee the broker and the measures taken to protect client funds.
Customer support: This includes the availability and effectiveness of the broker’s customer support options, such as live chat, phone support, and email.

Top CFD trading platform comparison

A CFD trading platform comparison is essential for traders looking to find the best CFD broker for their needs. CFD stands for Contract for Difference, and these are financial instruments that enable traders to speculate on the price movements of various assets without actually owning the underlying asset.

When choosing a CFD trading platform, it is important to consider a number of factors, such as the fees associated with trades, the types of assets available to trade, the platform’s trading tools and features, the ease of use, and the security measures in place. Additionally, traders should look for platforms that offer competitive spreads and leverage, as well as access to a wide range of markets and trading instruments.

How to Compare The Best CFD Trading Platforms?

Before making a decision, it is important to compare the features offered by different platforms. This includes comparing the different types of assets that can be traded, the available order types, the trading tools and features, the fees and commissions, the spreads and leverage, the security measures in place, and the customer service.

In addition to these factors, it is also important to consider the trading platform’s user interface and its overall user experience. The platform should be easy to use and understand, and should offer intuitive and powerful trading tools that allow traders to

Choosing the best CFD brokers is a very important decision to make, especially if you are new to trading. The key to finding the right broker is to make sure you have the right tools for your needs, such as a good platform and a reasonable fee. Here are 11 essential factors to consider when you compare the best brokers that offer CFDs.

Overview of CFD Broker Types

CFD brokers offer a range of services and products to their clients, but the type of broker used can have a big impact on the trading experience. The three main types of CFD brokers are ECN, STP, and Market Maker brokers. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to understand the differences between them in order to make an informed decision.

What are ECN Brokers?

ECN brokers provide direct market access to the interbank market, allowing their clients to access the best bids and offers from a range of liquidity providers. This means that traders can get the best prices and spreads, as well as faster execution speeds. However, ECN brokers tend to charge higher commissions and fees than other types of brokers.

How do STP Brokers work?

STP brokers route all orders to a liquidity provider, which means that they do not make a profit from the spread. This allows them to offer competitive spreads and fees, as well as faster execution speeds. However, they do not provide direct market access and the liquidity provided by the liquidity provider may not be as good as that provided by an ECN broker.

What do Market Maker Brokers offer?

Market maker brokers provide liquidity to traders by acting as a counterparty to every trade. They make money from the spreads, which are the difference between the bid and ask prices. Market maker brokers typically offer fixed spreads and no commissions, making them an attractive option for traders who wish to trade without paying commissions.

However, market maker brokers do not provide direct market access to the interbank market, and the liquidity they provide can sometimes be less reliable than that of an ECN broker. Additionally, they may not be able to offer the best prices and spreads, and they may also have lower execution speeds than other types of brokers.

Types of trading platforms:

CFD brokers offer a range of trading platforms to their clients, each with its own unique features and benefits. The most common types of trading platforms include web-based platforms, desktop platforms, and mobile platforms.

How to trade using Web-Based Platforms?

Web-based platforms are accessible via any modern web browser and offer a range of features, such as charting tools, advanced order types, and API integration. They are generally easy to use and don’t require any software installation.

How do Desktop Platforms trade?

Desktop platforms are usually more advanced and feature-rich than web-based platforms as they are installed on a trader’s computer. They usually offer more features, such as automated trading and scripting capabilities, as well as advanced charting and analysis tools.

Top Mobile trading platforms?

Mobile trading platforms are designed for use on mobile devices and offer a range of features, such as charting tools, news feeds, and the ability to place trades. They are usually more streamlined and user-friendly than desktop platforms, making them ideal for traders who need to stay up to date while on the go. Mobile trading platforms typically offer features such as a portfolio tracker, real-time price alerts, and the ability to manage multiple accounts from one interface. Additionally, some mobile platforms may offer advanced features such as automated trading, advanced charting and analysis tools, and even copy trading.

Overview of Account Types

CFD brokers offer a range of account types to suit different levels of traders and their needs. The most common types of accounts include demo accounts, standard accounts, and VIP accounts.

Are Demo Accounts Good?

Demo accounts are designed for beginners who want to gain experience in trading without risking any money. They provide access to the broker’s trading platform with virtual money, allowing traders to practice trading and test out strategies in a risk-free environment.

Standard Accounts for CFD Trading?

Standard accounts are suitable for traders of all levels and offer access to the broker’s trading platform with real money. They typically offer competitive spreads and fees, as well as a range of features such as charting tools, automated trading, and copy trading.

Benefits of VIP Accounts?

VIP accounts are designed for experienced traders who require access to more advanced features, such as higher leverage, lower spreads, and access to exclusive trading tools. They may also offer additional benefits such as priority customer service and access to exclusive trading events.

What are CFD broker fees?

One of the key considerations when choosing a CFD broker is the fees that they charge. These fees can include spreads, which is the difference between the bid and ask price of a financial instrument, and commissions, which is a charge for executing a trade. Some brokers may also charge overnight financing fees for positions that are held open after market hours. It’s important to carefully review the fees charged by different CFD brokers and compare them to find the most competitive rates.

What is a CFD Trading Platform?

The trading platform is the primary interface that traders use to access the CFD market and place trades. It’s important to choose a broker with a platform that is easy to use, feature-rich, and reliable. The top CFD brokers offer a variety of platform options, including web-based platforms that can be accessed from any device with an internet connection, mobile apps for on-the-go trading, and desktop software for advanced trading functionality.

In addition to the type of platform (web-based, mobile, desktop), consider the user-friendliness, speed, and reliability of the platform. For example, a platform that is easy to navigate and has a clean, intuitive interface can make it easier to place trades and access important features. A platform that is slow to load or prone to glitches can be frustrating and may impact your ability to trade effectively.

Best CFD Trading Platform Australia

When looking for the best CFD trading platform in Australia, traders should look for platforms that offer competitive fees and leverage, order types, and spreads, as well as a user-friendly interface and reliability. Additionally, it is important to make sure the platform is regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) to ensure that it operates in compliance with the latest regulations.

With the best Australia CFD trading platform, you can access the CFD markets and make informed trading decisions. Additionally, many of the best CFD trading platforms in Australia also offer a range of educational resources and trading tools to help traders develop their knowledge and skills. Here is the best CFD brokers in AUstralia:

Broker	Fees	Order Types	Spreads & Leverage	Overall Rating
Pepperstone	0.1% – 0.5% commission	Market, Limit, Stop	Up to 1:500	4.8/5
IC Markets	0.1% – 0.3% commission	Market, Limit, Stop	Up to 1:500	4.8/5
AxiTrader	0.1% – 0.5% commission	Market, Limit, Stop	Up to 1:500	4.7/5
FP Markets	0% commission	Market, Limit, Stop	Up to 1:500	4.7/5
eToro	0.5% commission	Market, Limit, Stop	Up to 1:30	4.7/5
AvaTrade	0.1% – 0.5% commission	Market, Limit, Stop	Up to 1:400	4.6/5
GO Markets	0.1% – 0.2% commission	Market, Limit, Stop	Up to 1:500	4.5/5
Plus500	0.1% – 0.2% commission	Market, Limit, Stop	Up to 1:300	4.5/5
CMC Markets	0.1% – 0.5% commission	Market, Limit, Stop	Up to 1:500	4.4/5
OctaFX	0.1% – 0.2% commission	Market, Limit, Stop	Up to 1:500	4.4/5

Trading Tools

In addition to providing access to the trading platform, the top CFD brokers also offer a range of trading tools and resources to help clients make informed trading decisions. These can include market analysis, news and research, and educational materials such as webinars and trading guides. It’s important to choose a broker that provides a wide range of trading tools to suit your needs and help you succeed in the CFD market.

Brokers should offer trading tools that can help traders make informed decisions, such as charting tools, technical analysis tools, news feeds, and economic calendars. Here are the three most popular trading tools offereed by the best CFD brokers:

• Charting tools to help traders monitor and analyze the markets • Technical analysis tools to help traders identify trends and make predictions • News feeds to keep traders up to date on the latest financial news • Economic calendars to help traders stay informed of upcoming economic events • Reliable, user-friendly and customizable trading platforms • Customer service to provide support and assistance • Educational resources to help traders gain knowledge and hone their trading skills
• Technical analysis tools to help traders identify trends and make predictions • News feeds to keep traders up to date on the latest financial news • Economic calendars to help traders stay informed of upcoming economic events • Reliable, user-friendly and customizable trading platforms • Customer service to provide support and assistance • Educational resources to help traders gain knowledge and hone their trading skills
• News feeds to keep traders up to date on the latest financial news • Economic calendars to help traders stay informed of upcoming economic events • Reliable, user-friendly and customizable trading platforms • Customer service to provide support and assistance • Educational resources to help traders gain knowledge and hone their trading skills

Regulation

It’s important to choose a broker that is regulated by a reputable authority, such as the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK or the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) in Australia. This ensures that the broker follows strict guidelines and is subject to oversight to protect traders. For example, the FCA requires brokers to maintain sufficient capital to cover their operational risks and to segregate client funds from their own funds to protect against bankruptcy.

Top 10 best CFD brokers in the UK:

Broker	Fees	Order Types	Spreads & Leverage	Overall Rating
Plus500	0% commission	Market, Limit, Stop	Up to 1:30	4.8/5
eToro	0.5% commission	Market, Limit, Stop	Up to 1:30	4.7/5
Libertex	0.5% commission	Market, Limit, Stop	Up to 1:400	4.5/5
CMC Markets	0.1% – 0.5% commission	Market, Limit, Stop	Up to 1:30	4.5/5
City Index	0.1% – 0.2% commission	Market, Limit, Stop	Up to 1:200	4.5/5
Markets.com	0.1% – 0.3% commission	Market, Limit, Stop	Up to 1:200	4.4/5

The top 10 best CFD brokers in the UK can provide traders with access to a wide range of financial instruments, such as stocks, indices, commodities and forex. They offer competitive fees, leverage, order types, and spreads, and provide an overall high-quality trading experience. These brokers are also typically regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, ensuring that the broker operates in compliance with the latest regulations. With the right CFD broker, traders can access the global markets and make informed trading decisions.

Account types

Different brokers offer a variety of account types, each with its own set of features and benefits. Consider whether you want a standard account, a VIP account with additional perks, or a demo account for practice trading. For example, a standard account may offer basic trading functionality, while a VIP account may include additional features such as lower spreads and personalized support. A demo account is a simulated trading environment that allows traders to practice their skills without risking real money.

Leverage

CFD trading allows traders to use leverage to increase their potential returns. However, leverage trading can also increase risk. Consider the level of leverage that the broker offers and whether it is appropriate for your trading style and risk tolerance. For example, a broker that offers high levels of leverage may be suitable for experienced traders who are comfortable with taking on more risk, but may not be suitable for beginners or those with a lower risk tolerance.

Customer support

Good customer support is essential for any CFD broker. Look for brokers that offer multiple support channels, such as live chat, phone, and email, and consider the availability and effectiveness of their support team. For example, a broker with a responsive and knowledgeable support team can be a valuable resource for answering questions and resolving issues.

Research and Education

Some brokers offer extensive research and educational materials to help traders stay informed and improve their trading skills. Consider the quality and variety of these resources when choosing a broker. For example, a broker that offers a range of educational webinars and trading guides can be a valuable resource for new traders, while experienced traders may prefer a broker that offers more advanced research and analysis tools such as market commentary and technical analysis reports.

Trade execution

The speed and reliability of trade execution can be critical, especially in fast-moving markets. Consider the broker’s track record in this area. For example, a broker that consistently executes trades quickly and accurately can help you take advantage of market opportunities, while a broker with a history of slow or unreliable trade execution can be frustrating and may result in missed opportunities.

Funding and withdrawal options

Consider the convenience and fees associated with funding and withdrawing from your account. For example, a broker that offers a wide range of funding options, such as credit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets, can make it easier to deposit and withdraw funds. However, it’s also important to consider any fees that may be associated with these transactions, as they can impact your overall trading costs.

Bonus and promotions

Some brokers offer bonuses and promotions to attract new traders. While these can be tempting, be sure to read the fine print and understand the terms and conditions before accepting any offers. For example, a broker may offer a deposit bonus that matches a portion of your initial deposit, but this may be subject to certain conditions such as a minimum trading volume requirement. It’s important to understand any restrictions or requirements associated with bonuses and promotions before accepting them.

Which is better CFD or Invest?

Ultimately, the best approach for you will depend on your financial goals and risk tolerance. If you are comfortable with higher levels of risk and are looking to potentially generate large returns in the short term, CFD trading may be a suitable option. If you are more risk-averse and are looking to build wealth over the long term, investing may be a better fit. It’s important to carefully consider your financial goals and risk tolerance before deciding which approach is right for you.

CFD (contract for difference) trading is a form of derivative trading that allows you to speculate on the price movements of various financial instruments, such as stocks, currencies, commodities, and indices. CFD trading offers the potential for significant profits or losses, as it allows you to use leverage to amplify your returns. However, it also carries a higher level of risk due to the use of leverage and the volatile nature of the markets.

On the other hand, investing involves buying and holding assets over a longer period of time with the goal of generating long-term returns. Investing is generally considered to be a lower-risk approach compared to trading, as it allows you to benefit from the potential appreciation of the underlying assets. However, it also typically offers lower potential returns compared to trading.

Who offers CFD in Australia?

There are a number of CFD brokers that operate in Australia. Some examples include IG Markets, Plus500, CMC Markets, Pepperstone, eToro, Forex.com, Saxo Capital Markets, TD Ameritrade, City Index, and FP Markets. These brokers offer CFD trading on a variety of financial instruments, including stocks, currencies, commodities, and indices. It’s important to carefully compare the features and fees of different CFD brokers to find the one that best meets your needs.

What is a CFD broker?

A CFD broker is a financial services firm that provides clients with access to a platform for trading CFDs. The broker acts as an intermediary, facilitating the execution of trades between buyers and sellers. In addition to providing access to the trading platform, CFD brokers may also offer a range of services such as educational materials, market analysis, and customer support.

Is CFD Risky?

CFD trading offers a number of benefits, such as the ability to access global markets with low capital requirements, excellent liquidity, and the potential for leveraged profits. However, CFD trading also carries a certain level of risk, as there is a potential for significant losses if the market moves against the trader. It is important for traders to understand the risks associated with CFD trading, and to use appropriate risk management strategies to protect their capital.

How do I manage risk with Best Brokers that offer CFD trading?

There are several strategies that you can use to manage risk when trading CFDs including stop-loss orders, diversification, and using advanced risk management tools.

1. Use stop loss orders: A stop loss order is a type of order that automatically closes a trade at a predetermined price level to minimize potential losses. By setting a stop loss, you can limit your potential losses if the market moves against you.
2. Diversify your portfolio: Diversifying your portfolio across a range of financial instruments can help to spread risk and reduce the impact of any individual trade.
3. Use risk management tools: Many CFD brokers offer risk management tools such as guaranteed stop loss orders and negative balance protection to help traders manage risk.
4. Set clear risk management rules: It’s important to have clear risk management rules in place, such as setting a maximum loss or drawdown level, to help you stay disciplined and avoid taking on too much risk.

Can I use technical analysis and other trading strategies when trading CFDs?

Yes, you can use technical analysis and other trading strategies when trading CFDs. Technical analysis involves analyzing historical price and volume data to identify trends and predict future price movements. There are many different technical analysis techniques that traders can use, including trend lines, moving averages, and chart patterns. In addition to technical analysis, traders can also use fundamental analysis, which involves analyzing economic and company-specific data, and other trading strategies such as momentum trading, breakout trading, and mean reversion.

How do CFD brokers handle margin calls?

A margin call is a request from the broker for the trader to deposit additional funds or securities into their account in order to meet the required minimum margin level. This can occur when the value of the trader’s open positions falls below the required level due to market movements.

If the trader is unable to meet the margin call, the broker may close some or all of the trader’s open positions to reduce the size of the account and bring it back up to the required margin level. It’s important to understand the margin requirements of your CFD broker and to manage your risk accordingly to avoid margin calls.

What is leverage in CFD trading?

Leverage is a tool that allows traders to amplify their potential returns by borrowing funds from the broker. For example, if a broker offers a leverage ratio of 1:100, it means that the trader can place a trade worth $100 for every $1 of their own capital. Leverage allows traders to potentially generate large returns, but it also increases risk, as it amplifies potential losses as well as profits. It’s important to carefully consider the level of leverage that you use and to manage your risk accordingly.

How are CFD trading fees calculated?

CFD trading fees are typically calculated in one of two ways: as a spread or as a commission. A spread is the difference between the bid and ask price of a financial instrument, and it is expressed as a percentage of the trade value. For example, if a broker quotes a spread of 0.5% on a CFD, it means that the trader will pay an additional 0.5% of the trade value as a fee.

A commission is a fixed fee that is charged by the broker for executing a trade. Some brokers charge a combination of spreads and commissions. It’s important to carefully review the fees charged by different brokers and compare them to find the most competitive rates.

What are the risks of CFD trading?

CFD trading carries a high level of risk due to the use of leverage and the volatile nature of the markets. Some of the risks associated with CFD trading include:

1. Market risk: The value of your CFD positions can fluctuate significantly due to market movements, which can result in large profits or losses.
2. Leverage risk: Leverage allows traders to amplify their potential returns, but it also amplifies potential losses. It’s important to carefully consider the level of leverage that you use and to manage your risk accordingly.
3. Liquidity risk: Some CFDs may be less liquid than others, which can make it more difficult to enter or exit trades at favorable prices.
4. Counterparty risk: CFD trades are typically executed through a broker, which means that you are relying on the financial stability of the broker. It’s important to choose a reputable broker to minimize this risk.

What are the tax implications of trading CFDs?

The tax implications of trading CFDs vary depending on your country of residence and the specific tax laws that apply to you. In some countries, CFD trading may be considered speculative activity and the profits may be subject to capital gains tax. In other countries, CFD profits may be treated as income and subject to income tax. It’s important to consult a qualified tax professional or the relevant tax authority to determine the specific tax treatment of CFD profits in your country.

In addition to taxes on profits, you may also be subject to other fees and charges when trading CFDs, such as stamp duty in some countries or fees for overnight financing. It’s important to understand the fees and charges that may apply to your CFD trades and to factor them into your trading costs.

How do I compare the features and benefits of the best broker for CFD?

When comparing CFD trading platforms, it’s important to consider a range of factors, including:

1. Platform’s ease of use
2. User-friendliness: A platform that is easy to navigate and has a clean, intuitive interface can make it easier to place trades and access important features.
3. Trading tools and features: Consider the trading tools and features offered by the platform, such as charting tools, technical indicators, and research resources.
4. Fees and commissions: Compare the fees and commissions charged by different brokers, including spreads and any other charges such as deposit and withdrawal fees.
5. Platform reliability and speed: A reliable and fast platform is essential for effective trading, as slow or unreliable platforms can result in missed opportunities or errors.
6. Mobile app: If you plan to trade on the go, consider whether the broker offers a mobile app that is compatible with your device.
7. Customer support: Good customer support is important in case you encounter any issues with the platform or have questions about trading.

Can I trade CFDs on stocks, commodities, and other financial instruments?

Yes, CFDs (contracts for difference) allow traders to speculate on the price movements of a variety of financial instruments, including stocks, commodities, currencies, and indices. This gives traders the opportunity to diversify their portfolio and trade on a range of markets. It’s important to carefully consider the characteristics and risk profile of each financial instrument before trading CFDs.

Are there any restrictions on CFD trading in certain countries?

Yes, there are some countries that have restrictions on CFD trading. For example, the United States does not allow CFD trading and requires brokers to offer futures or options contracts instead. In the European Union, CFD trading is regulated by the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID) and is subject to certain restrictions, such as limits on leverage and negative balance protection. Other countries may have their own regulations governing CFD trading, so it’s important to check the specific rules and regulations in your country before trading CFDs.