Markets.com
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Pros and Cons
- Low trading costs with tight spreads
- Wide range of trading instruments available
- Regulated by multiple top-tier authorities
- Advanced trading platforms (MT4 & MT5)
- Excellent customer service
- No ZuluTrade support
- Limited research and analysis tools
- Average educational resources
- Restricted availability of cryptocurrencies
- No US clients accepted
Comprehensive Review of Markets.com
Markets.com is a globally recognized online brokerage platform that offers a comprehensive suite of financial instruments for trading, including forex, commodities, indices, shares, and cryptocurrencies.
Established in 2008, Markets.com has built a reputation for providing a user-friendly trading experience backed by robust regulatory oversight.
The platform is known for its diverse asset offerings, competitive trading conditions, and advanced trading tools, making it an attractive option for traders of all levels.
This review aims to provide an in-depth analysis of Markets.com, covering various aspects such as its regulatory environment, trading platforms, fees, customer support, and overall user experience.
Create a Free AccountCompany Overview and Background
History and Establishment
Markets.com was founded in 2008 as a subsidiary of Finalto, a division of Playtech PLC, a company listed on the London Stock Exchange.
The broker initially made a name for itself by offering a wide range of trading instruments and leveraging technology to provide a seamless trading experience.
Over the years, the company has expanded its offerings and improved its platform, making it one of the leading brokers in the industry.
Regulatory Environment
Markets.com operates under strict regulatory oversight, ensuring that it adheres to the highest standards of financial regulation and client protection.
The broker is regulated by multiple authorities, including:
- Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) – United Kingdom: The FCA is one of the most respected regulatory bodies globally, known for its stringent requirements and robust oversight. Markets.com’s regulation under the FCA provides clients with a high level of protection, including segregated client funds and participation in the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
- Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) – Cyprus: CySEC is a well-known regulator in Europe, ensuring that the firm adheres to EU regulations, including the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID II). This regulation allows Markets.com to offer its services across the European Economic Area (EEA).
- Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) – Australia: ASIC is a top-tier regulator that enforces strict compliance standards on financial service providers. Its regulation under ASIC ensures that Australian clients are offered a secure and transparent trading environment.
- Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) – South Africa: The FSCA is responsible for overseeing the non-banking financial services industry in South Africa. Markets.com’s FSCA regulation allows it to operate within South Africa under local laws, providing protection and transparency to South African customers.
These regulatory credentials ensure that the company operates within a secure and transparent environment, giving traders peace of mind when it comes to the safety of their funds and the integrity of the trading platform.
Trading Platforms
Overview of Platforms
Markets.com offers two primary trading platforms: the proprietary MarketsX platform and the widely used MetaTrader platforms (MT4 and MT5).
These platforms cater to different types of traders, from beginners to experienced professionals.
MarketsX Platform
MarketsX is Markets.com’s proprietary platform, designed with a focus on user experience and advanced trading tools.
It is a web-based platform that requires no download, making it accessible from any device with an internet connection.
Key Features:
- User-Friendly Interface: The platform is designed to be intuitive, with a clean and well-organized layout that makes navigation easy for people of all levels.
- Advanced Charting Tools: MarketsX offers a wide range of charting tools, including technical indicators, drawing tools, and various chart types, allowing traders to perform in-depth technical analysis.
- In-Platform News and Analysis: Traders have access to real-time news, analysis, and insights directly within the platform, helping them make informed trading decisions.
- Customizable Layout: The platform allows users to customize their trading interface, enabling them to set up their workspace according to their preferences.
- Integrated Risk Management Tools: MarketsX includes various risk management tools, such as stop-loss orders, take-profit orders, and negative balance protection, to help investors manage their risk effectively.
MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5)
Markets.com also supports the MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 platforms, which are widely regarded as industry standards for forex and CFD trading.
These platforms are known for their advanced features, reliability, and extensive community support.
Key Features:
- Automated Trading: Both MT4 and MT5 support automated trading through Expert Advisors (EA), allowing anybody to implement algorithmic trading strategies.
- Advanced Technical Analysis: The MetaTrader platforms offer an extensive range of technical indicators, chart types, and timeframes, making them ideal for those who rely heavily on technical analysis.
- Custom Indicators and Scripts: Traders can create and use custom indicators and scripts to enhance their trading strategies.
- Multi-Device Access: MT4 and MT5 are available on desktop, web, and mobile devices, providing traders with flexibility in how and where they trade.
Comparison of Platforms:
| Feature | Available via Expert Advisors (EA) | MetaTrader 4 (MT4) | MetaTrader 5 (MT5) |
|---|---|---|---|
| User Interface | User-friendly, customizable | Standard, customizable | Enhanced version of MT4, customizable |
| Charting Tools | Advanced, integrated with news and analysis | Advanced, highly customizable | More advanced than MT4, additional tools |
| Automated Trading | Not available | Markets | Available via Expert Advisors (EAs) |
| Risk Management Tools | Integrated with various tools | Available | Available, with additional features |
| Accessibility | Web-based, no download required | Desktop, web, and mobile | Desktop, web, and mobile |
Performance and Usability
Both the MarketsX and MetaTrader platforms are known for their reliability and performance.
The MarketsX platform, being web-based, offers fast execution speeds with minimal downtime. It is particularly praised for its ease of use, making it a preferred choice for beginners and those who value simplicity.
On the other hand, the MetaTrader platforms are known for their robust performance, particularly in handling complex trading strategies and automated trading.
Mobile Trading:
Markets.com offers mobile versions of both the MarketsX and MetaTrader platforms.
These mobile apps are available for both iOS and Android devices and provide full functionality, allowing traders to manage their accounts, analyze markets, and execute trades on the go.
The mobile apps are well-designed, offering a seamless experience with quick access to market data and trading features.
Trading Instruments and Markets
Overview of Available Markets
Markets.com offers a wide range of trading instruments across various asset classes, providing ample opportunities to diversify portfolios.
The key asset classes available on the platform include:
- Forex: Markets.com offers trading in over 60 currency pairs, including major, minor, and exotic pairs. The forex market is one of the most liquid and volatile markets, making it a popular choice.
- Commodities: Investors can access a range of commodities, including precious metals like gold and silver, energy commodities like oil and natural gas, and agricultural commodities such as wheat and coffee.
- Indices: It also provides access to major global indices, including the S&P 500, NASDAQ 100, FTSE 100, and DAX 30, allowing traders to speculate on the performance of entire stock markets.
- Shares: The platform offers trading in thousands of shares from major global exchanges, including companies listed on the NYSE, NASDAQ, LSE, and more. This allows individuals to invest in individual companies across various sectors.
- Cryptocurrencies: Markets.com has expanded its offerings to include a selection of popular cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin. Cryptocurrency trading is available as CFDs, allowing anybody to speculate on price movements without owning the underlying assets.
Asset Class Comparison
| Asset Class | Number of Instruments | Trading Hours | Typical Spreads |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forex | 60+ | 24/5 | Low spreads, starting from 0.4 pips |
| Commodities | 20+ | Varies by commodity (e.g., 23/5 for oil) | Competitive, varies by commodity |
| Indices | 30+ | 24/5 | Competitive, typically low |
| Shares | 2000+ | Market hours of respective exchanges | Market-driven spreads |
| Cryptocurrencies | 10+ | 24/7 | Medium to high, varies by volatility |
Liquidity and Market Access
Markets.com ensures high liquidity across its asset classes, particularly in forex and major indices, which is crucial for traders seeking to enter and exit positions with minimal slippage.
The broker’s partnerships with leading liquidity providers enable it to offer competitive spreads and deep market access, even during times of high market volatility.
Exotic Instruments:
In addition to the standard asset classes, it offers trading in more exotic instruments, such as ETFs and bonds.
This allows traders to explore alternative investment opportunities and diversify their trading strategies further.
Trading Conditions
Spreads and Commissions
One of the key factors that influence the choice of a broker is the cost of trading, which is primarily determined by spreads and commissions.
Markets.com operates on a commission-free model for most of its asset classes, generating revenue through the spread.
Spreads:
- Forex: Spreads on major forex pairs like EUR/USD start as low as 0.4 pips, making it a competitive choice for forex traders. Spreads on minor and exotic pairs are wider but remain competitive within the industry.
- Commodities: Spreads on commodities vary depending on the instrument. For example, the spread on gold can be as low as 0.3 points, while spreads on energy commodities like oil are slightly higher due to market volatility.
- Indices: Indices are offered with tight spreads, with popular indices like the S&P 500 and DAX 30 having spreads as low as 1.0 point.
- Shares: Share trading on Markets.com comes with variable spreads that are influenced by market conditions and liquidity. Typically, spreads are tighter for blue-chip stocks and wider for less liquid shares.
- Cryptocurrencies: Cryptocurrency spreads are generally wider due to the higher volatility in the market. For example, the spread on Bitcoin can range from $30 to $50, depending on market conditions.
Leverage
Leverage is a critical tool, allowing them to control larger positions with a smaller amount of capital.
However, it also increases risk, making it essential for people to use leverage wisely.
- Forex Leverage: Markets.com offers leverage of up to 1:300 for forex trading, which is considered moderate compared to some other brokers that offer higher leverage. This level of leverage is suitable for both beginners and experienced traders, providing a balance between risk and reward.
- Commodities and Indices: Leverage for commodities and indices varies, but typically ranges from 1:100 to 1:200. This allows investors to amplify their exposure to these markets while managing their risk.
- Shares: Leverage for share trading is generally lower, usually around 1:10 to 1:20, reflecting the higher risk associated with individual stocks.
- Cryptocurrencies: Due to the high volatility of cryptocurrencies, leverage is capped at 1:5, aligning with regulatory guidelines and risk management best practices.
Risk Management
Markets.com places a strong emphasis on risk management, offering a range of tools to help traders manage their exposure:
- Stop-Loss and Take-Profit Orders: These orders allow traders to set predefined levels at which their positions will be automatically closed, helping to lock in profits or limit losses.
- Negative Balance Protection: This feature ensures that nobody cannot lose more than their account balance, providing an additional layer of protection in volatile markets.
- Margin Calls: Markets.com issues margin calls when an account’s equity falls below a certain threshold, prompting traders to add funds or close positions to avoid liquidation.
Execution and Slippage
Markets.com operates on a no-dealing desk (NDD) model, providing direct market access with no requotes.
This model is favored by many traders as it ensures faster execution and reduces the likelihood of conflicts of interest.
However, like all brokers, Markets.com is not immune to slippage, particularly during periods of high market volatility or low liquidity.
The platform’s robust infrastructure minimizes slippage, but traders should still be aware of its potential impact on their trades.
Account Types and Features
Types of Accounts
Markets.com offers several account types to cater to different types of users, each with its set of features and benefits:
- Retail Account: This is the standard account type for most people. It offers access to all trading instruments, competitive spreads, and leverage up to 1:300. Retail accounts also include access to the MarketsX platform and the MetaTrader platforms.
- Professional Account: Professional accounts are designed for experienced traders who meet certain criteria. These accounts offer higher leverage, tighter spreads, and priority customer support. However, professionals waive some regulatory protections, such as negative balance protection.
- Islamic Account: Markets.com offers Islamic accounts for those who wish to trade in accordance with Sharia law. These accounts do not incur swap or rollover charges on overnight positions, making them suitable for Muslims.
- Demo Account: The demo account allows anybody to practice trading with virtual funds in a risk-free environment. It is an excellent tool for beginners to familiarize themselves with the platform and for experienced traders to test new strategies.
Account Opening Process
Opening an account is a straightforward process that can be completed online in a few simple steps:
- Registration: Traders are required to provide basic personal information, including their name, email address, phone number, and country of residence.
- Verification: As a regulated company, it adheres to Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements. Traders must provide proof of identity (e.g., passport or driver’s license) and proof of address (e.g., utility bill or bank statement).
- Account Funding: Once the account is verified, customers can fund their accounts using many payment methods, including bank transfer, credit/debit cards, PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller. The minimum deposit requirement is $100.
- Trading: After funding the account, the person can start trading immediately using the MarketsX or MetaTrader platforms.
Account Comparison
| Feature | Retail Account | Professional Account | Islamic Account | Demo Account |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leverage | Up to 1:300 | Up to 1:500 | Up to 1:300 | N/A |
| Spreads | Competitive, starts from 0.4 pips | Tighter than retail | Competitive, same as retail | Simulated spreads |
| Platform Access | MarketsX, MT4, MT5 | MarketsX, MT4, MT5 | MarketsX, MT4, MT5 | MarketsX, MT4, MT5 |
| Swap-Free | No | No | Yes | N/A |
| Minimum Deposit | $100 | $100 | $100 | N/A |
| Customer Support | Standard | Priority | Standard | Standard |
Fees and Costs
Trading Fees
Trading fees are primarily generated through spreads, as the broker does not charge commissions on most trades.
This commission-free model is attractive to traders looking to minimize their costs, particularly those who trade frequently.
- Forex Trading Fees: Forex traders benefit from tight spreads, particularly on major currency pairs. The spread on EUR/USD can be as low as 0.4 pips, making Markets.com a cost-effective option for forex trading.
- Commodity Trading Fees: Spreads on commodities are competitive, with gold spreads starting from 0.3 points. Commodity traders can enjoy low-cost access to these markets without worrying about additional commissions.
- Indices Trading Fees: Index trading is offered with low spreads, with major indices like the S&P 500 and DAX 30 having spreads as low as 1.0 point. This makes it an attractive choice for index investors.
- Shares Trading Fees: Trading shares is commission-free, with costs built into the spreads. The spreads on shares vary depending on the liquidity and market conditions of the underlying asset.
- Cryptocurrency Trading Fees: Cryptocurrency trading fees are higher due to the volatile nature of these markets. Spreads on popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin can range from $30 to $50.
Non-Trading Fees
In addition to trading fees, traders should be aware of non-trading fees that may be incurred during their time with Markets.com.
- Deposit and Withdrawal Fees: Markets.com does not charge any fees for deposits or withdrawals. However, users should check with their payment providers for any potential charges on their end.
- Inactivity Fee: An inactivity fee is charged if an account is dormant for an extended period (usually after 90 days of inactivity). The fee is typically $10 per month and is deducted from the account balance until the account is reactivated, or the balance reaches zero.
- Currency Conversion Fee: If a trader deposits funds in a currency different from their account’s base currency, a currency conversion fee may be applied.
Comparison of Costs
| Fee Type | Amount/Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spread (EUR/USD) | As low as 0.4 pips | No commissions |
| Spread (Gold) | As low as 0.3 points | No commissions |
| Spread (S&P 500) | As low as 1.0 point | No commissions |
| Spread (Bitcoin) | $30 – $50 | No commissions |
| Inactivity Fee | $10 per month | Charged after 90 days of inactivity |
| Deposit/Withdrawal Fee | $0 | No fees from Markets.com |
| Currency Conversion Fee | Varies | Charged when depositing in a different currency |
Customer Support and Service
Availability and Channels
Markets.com provides comprehensive customer support to assist traders with any issues or queries they may encounter.
The customer support team is available 24/5, aligning with the global trading hours.
Support Channels:
- Live Chat: The live chat feature on their website is one of the quickest ways to get in touch with a support representative. The response time is generally fast, and the support team is knowledgeable about the platform and trading-related issues.
- Email Support: Traders can also reach out to the support team via email at support@markets.com. Email support is typically used for more detailed queries or when documentation needs to be attached. The response time is usually within 24 hours.
- Phone Support: The firm offers phone support for traders who prefer to speak directly with a representative. The phone number is +44 20 3150 3087, and support is available in multiple languages.
Quality of Support
The quality of customer support at Markets.com is generally high, with representatives being well-trained and able to assist with a wide range of issues.
The support team is particularly praised for their professionalism and the ability to resolve issues promptly.
Languages Supported:
Markets.com offers support in several languages, catering to its diverse global client base.
Languages include English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Arabic, and more.
This multilingual support is a significant advantage for non-English-speaking traders, ensuring they receive the help they need in their native language.
Education and Research
Markets.com offers a range of educational resources to help people improve their knowledge and trading skills.
These resources are available directly through the platform and include:
- Webinars: Regular webinars are conducted by experienced market analysts and professionals, covering a range of topics from basic trading strategies to advanced market analysis.
- Video Tutorials: The platform offers a series of video tutorials that provide step-by-step guides on how to use the trading platform, technical analysis tools, and risk management strategies.
- Market Analysis: Markets.com provides daily market analysis, including insights into major market movements, economic events, and trading opportunities. This analysis is available on the platform and can be accessed by all clients.
User Experience
The overall user experience is positive, with the platform being highly rated for its ease of use, functionality, and support services.
The combination of a user-friendly interface, comprehensive educational resources, and responsive customer support makes Markets.com an attractive option for traders of all experience levels.
Security and Safety of Funds
Fund Segregation
As a regulated broker, the firm adheres to strict regulatory requirements regarding the safety of client funds.
One of the key practices is the segregation of client funds from its operational funds.
This means that client funds are held in separate accounts with top-tier banks, ensuring that they are not used for any operational purposes and are protected in the event of insolvency.
Investor Compensation
Markets.com participates in investor compensation schemes as required by its regulatory bodies.
For example, under the FCA regulation in the UK, clients are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), which provides compensation of up to £85,000 if the broker fails.
Similarly, under CySEC regulation, clients are protected by the Investor Compensation Fund (ICF), which offers compensation of up to €20,000.
Data Protection
Markets.com employs advanced encryption technologies to protect clients’ personal and financial information.
The platform uses SSL (Secure Socket Layer) encryption to ensure that all data transmitted between the client and the server is secure and cannot be accessed by unauthorized parties.
Regulatory Compliance
The firm is fully compliant with the regulations of the authorities it is registered under.
This includes adhering to anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) laws, conducting regular audits, and maintaining transparent business practices.
The broker’s compliance with these regulations is regularly monitored by the relevant authorities, providing an additional layer of protection for clients.
Conclusion
Summary of Key Points
Markets.com is a well-established and reputable online broker that offers a comprehensive trading experience to its clients.
With a wide range of trading instruments, competitive trading conditions, and a choice of advanced trading platforms, it caters to traders of all experience levels.
The broker’s strong regulatory framework, combined with its emphasis on security and client protection, makes it a trustworthy choice for those looking to trade forex, commodities, indices, shares, and cryptocurrencies.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are a beginner looking for a user-friendly platform with educational resources or an experienced trader seeking advanced tools and competitive spreads, Markets.com has something to offer.
Its commitment to providing a secure and transparent trading environment, along with its focus on customer service, positions it as a leading broker in the industry.
In conclusion, Markets.com is a solid choice for traders who value a reliable, well-regulated platform with a broad range of trading opportunities.
While there are always areas for improvement, such as expanding research tools and cryptocurrency offerings, the overall experience with Markets.com is highly positive, making it a firm worth considering for your trading needs.
Visit official website: www.markets.comFAQ
Is Markets.com a regulated broker?
Yes, Markets.com is regulated by multiple authorities including the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), and the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) in South Africa.
What is the minimum deposit required?
The minimum deposit required to start trading is $100.
Does it offer a demo account?
Yes, Markets.com offers a demo account that allows traders to practice trading in a risk-free environment before investing real money.
What are the available payment methods?
Markets.com supports a variety of payment methods including Bank Transfer, Credit/Debit Cards, PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller.
Does Markets.com charge any deposit or withdrawal fees?
No, this broker does not charge any fees for deposits or withdrawals. However, it's always recommended to check with your payment provider for any potential charges.
Can I use automated trading strategies?
Yes, Markets.com allows the use of automated trading strategies through Expert Advisors (EAs) available on their MT4 and MT5 platforms.
What leverage does it offer?
Markets.com offers leverage up to 1:300, depending on the asset class and the regulatory jurisdiction.
References and Sources
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marketscom/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/marketscomapp
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/marketscom
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/marketsdotcom
- Threads: https://www.threads.net/@marketscomapp
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marketscom
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Article written, edited and reviewed by
Last updated: September 5, 2025
