Overview
CMC Markets was founded in 1989 and is one of the most established CFD providers in the world, publicly listed on the London Stock Exchange (CMCX). The broker's Next Generation platform is widely regarded as one of the best proprietary platforms in the industry, offering over 12,000 instruments including 141 forex pairs, comprehensive charting with 115+ technical indicators, and TradingView-powered charts. CMC Markets is the top-rated broker for currency pair variety.
Pros
- Most currency pairs: 141 forex pairs — more than any other retail broker
- Outstanding Next Generation platform: 115+ indicators, pattern recognition, news feed, and customisable layouts
- Huge product range: 12,000+ CFDs across forex, stocks, indices, commodities, and crypto
- Publicly listed and trusted: LSE-listed company with FCA, ASIC, and BaFin regulation
- No minimum deposit: Accessible for all account sizes
Cons
- Next Gen lacks automated trading: The proprietary platform does not support EAs or automated strategies
- MT4 product range limited: Only a subset of instruments available on MT4
- Education lacks interactivity: No quiz or progress tracking in the education section
- Higher MT4 spreads: EUR/USD on MT4 averages 1.3 pips; Next Gen is tighter
- No copy trading: Social or copy trading not available
Spreads & Fees
| Account Type | EUR/USD Spread | Commission | All-In Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Next Gen Standard | Avg 0.65 pips | None | ~0.65 pips |
| MT4 Standard | Avg 1.30 pips | None | ~1.30 pips |
| FX Active | Tight spread | $2.50/side | Varies |
Overnight (Swap) Fees: Standard holding costs; transparent rate sheet available. Withdrawal Fees: Free via most methods. Inactivity Fee: £10/month after 12 months of inactivity.