Tag: Brokers

Top Forex Brokers in Spain for 2025: The Ultimate Guide

Spain’s forex market is mature, tightly regulated, and well served by global brokers. Whether you’re just starting or optimizing your trading setup, picking a safe, well‑regulated, competitively priced broker is the most impactful decision you’ll make.

This guide covers:

How forex & CFD trading is regulated in Spain (CNMV, ESMA, MiFID II)
What to look for in a broker (platforms, spreads, safety, tools)
A curated list of top brokers that accept residents of Spain
How to verify authorizations on the CNMV register
Practical FAQs, risk management tips, and a due‑diligence checklist

Risk warning: CFDs are complex instruments and carry a high risk of rapid loss due to leverage. A significant share of retail accounts lose money with CFD providers. Assess whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford the high risk of loss.

1) Is Forex Trading Legal in Spain? Regulation 101

Yes. Residents of Spain can legally trade forex and CFDs through brokers that comply with EU MiFID II and the supervisory framework of the Comisión Nacional del Mercado de Valores (CNMV), Spain’s securities regulator. Many international brokers serve Spanish clients under EU passporting or local authorization and must follow ESMA product intervention rules (leverage caps, standardized risk warnings, margin close‑out rules).

Key guardrails Spanish retail traders should know:

Leverage limits: Typically 1:30 on major FX and 1:20 on minors/exotics for retail clients.
Investor compensation: Eligible retail clients may benefit from statutory investor‑compensation arrangements in the event of firm default.
Advertising & conduct: Spain enforces strict standards on retail marketing for CFDs; brokers must display clear loss‑rate disclosures and comply with conduct rules.

Tip: Always cross‑check a firm on the CNMV public register and review recent CNMV warnings for clones or unauthorized entities before you fund an account.

2) How We Picked the Best Forex Brokers in Spain (2025 Methodology)

We evaluated brokers on the following criteria and selected those available to Spain‑based clients:

Regulatory safety: Presence of top‑tier licenses and Spain eligibility under EU rules.
Costs & execution: Typical EUR/USD spreads, commission structures, swaps, and non‑trading fees.
Platforms & tools: MT4/MT5, proprietary web/desktop, TradingView integrations, automation/APIs, social/copy trading.
Education & research: In‑platform analytics, tutorials, and Spanish‑language resources where available.
Service & funding: Localized support hours, payment methods, and withdrawal reliability.

3) Best Forex Brokers in Spain for 2025 (Shortlist)

Note: Availability, account types, and pricing can vary by jurisdiction and client classification (retail vs professional). Verify current terms on the broker’s website and on the CNMV register.

Broker alphabetical	Why It Stands Out	Typical Platforms	Notes for Spain-Based Traders
AvaTrade	Multiple platforms, options trading, fixed‑spread offering	MT4, MT5, WebTrader, Options	Broad education and tools; review fixed spread vs variable costs.
CMC Markets	Rich research, powerful proprietary platform	Next‑Gen, MT4 (varies)	Competitive FX pricing for active traders; strong analytics.
eToro	Leader in social/copy trading, beginner friendly	Proprietary + social/copy	Intuitive for newcomers; compare spreads vs features and copy fees.
FP Markets	Aggressive spreads, EA‑friendly	MT4, MT5	Offers raw/standard pricing; confirm commissions and swaps.
IG	Industry leader with deep markets & education	Proprietary web/desktop, MT4	Strong overall pick; excellent research & learning resources.
Interactive Brokers	Institutional‑grade access and multi‑asset coverage	TWS, GlobalTrader	Best for advanced, multi‑asset traders; steeper learning curve.
XTB	xStation 5 and standout education	xStation (web/desktop/mobile)	Great UX and learning path; €0 minimum on many accounts.

4) Broker Mini‑Reviews (Spain Focus)

Best for: Traders wanting a trusted, full‑featured experience with top‑tier research.
Highlights: Robust proprietary platforms, abundant analytics & education, broad product range beyond FX.
Considerations: Minimum deposit and product availability can vary by entity; check Spain‑specific terms.

XTB

Best for: Beginners to intermediates who value a clean interface and strong educational content.
Highlights: xStation 5 is intuitive, fast, and packed with tools; competitive overall pricing.
Considerations: Confirm your account type’s spread/commission structure.

AvaTrade

Best for: Traders who want platform choice (MT4/MT5/options) and the simplicity of fixed spreads.
Highlights: Wide asset coverage and cross‑platform flexibility; good for strategy testing.
Considerations: Fixed spreads can be higher in quiet markets; compare effective cost to ECN‑style accounts.

FP Markets

Best for: Cost‑conscious MT4/MT5 traders and EAs needing tight spreads.
Highlights: Low‑cost majors, choice of raw or standard pricing; strong for automation.
Considerations: Review commissions, swaps, and Spain‑serving entity protections.

eToro

Best for: Social trading and beginners seeking copy features and community.
Highlights: CopyTrader ecosystem, simple account setup, broad asset exposure.
Considerations: Spreads may be wider than pro‑grade ECN offerings; weigh convenience vs cost.

Interactive Brokers

Best for: Multi‑asset traders seeking institutional‑grade execution and margin rates.
Highlights: TWS depth, global markets, competitive pricing for active investors.
Considerations: Platform complexity; ideal if you plan to expand beyond FX.

5) Spain‑Specific Buying Guide: What to Look For

A) Safety & Authorization

Check the CNMV register entry (legal entity, authorization number, passporting status).
Prefer brokers with multiple tier‑1 licenses and robust client‑money segregation.

B) Costs That Matter

Spread + commission on your pairs, overnight financing (swap), inactivity, deposit/withdrawal fees.
If you trade size, compare effective cost per million; for casual traders, focus on all‑in spread.

C) Platforms & Tools

MT4/MT5 for EAs and automation.
Proprietary platforms for research, news, and seamless UX.
TradingView integrations for superior charting and social ideas.
Always test with a demo before funding.

D) Spanish‑Friendly Service

Spanish‑language support and Iberia‑friendly funding options.
Reliable withdrawals and support during local hours.

6) Step‑by‑Step: How to Verify a Broker with the CNMV

Visit the CNMV company register (public search).
Enter the broker’s legal name (check the entity name in the broker’s disclosures).
Confirm authorization/registration number, date, and passporting details (if applicable).
Review any CNMV warnings about the firm or potential clones.

7) Costs & Features: Quick Comparison (Indicative)

Values below reflect typical offerings and are subject to change. Always check live pricing and fees on the broker’s website.

Broker	Min. Deposit (typical)	Platforms	Notable Features
IG	~€250	Proprietary, MT4	Top‑tier trust, deep research, broad markets
XTB	€0	xStation 5	Excellent education, sleek UX
AvaTrade	~€100	MT4/MT5/AvaOptions	Fixed spreads, diverse platforms
FP Markets	~€100	MT4/MT5	Low spreads, EA‑friendly
eToro	~€50	Proprietary + social	Copy trading, beginner friendly
Interactive Brokers	€0	TWS, GlobalTrader	Institutional‑grade access, multi‑asset

8) Risk Management & Best Practices for Spanish Traders

Start small, learn fast: Begin with micro‑lots; scale only after consistent results.
Respect leverage: ESMA caps exist to protect retail clients—consider using even lower leverage when testing.
Plan for rollovers: Understand swap/financing and its impact on swing positions.
Use guaranteed stops (if offered): Helpful for event risk.
Keep tax records: Maintain detailed statements; Spain taxes trading gains/losses.

9) FAQs (Spain 2025)

Q1) Do I need a locally authorized CNMV broker?
Not necessarily. EU‑authorized brokers can serve Spanish residents under passporting; still verify the serving entity in the CNMV register and the protections that apply.

Q2) What leverage can I get as a retail client?
Generally 1:30 on major FX and 1:20 on minors/exotics. Professional classification may allow higher, but standards and risks increase substantially.

Q3) What’s covered by investor compensation?
Statutory schemes may cover eligible claims related to firm default (not market losses). Review the specific entity’s arrangements.

Q4) Which platform should I choose—MT4/MT5, proprietary or TradingView?

MT4/MT5: Best for EAs and third‑party indicators.
Proprietary: Often stronger research, news, and seamless UX.
TradingView integration: Excellent charting and social ideas.
Test with a demo to match features to your style.

10) A 10‑Point Due‑Diligence Checklist (Copy & Use)

Verify the broker’s legal entity on the CNMV register.
Confirm client money segregation and top‑tier regulation.
Compare EUR/USD all‑in cost (spread + commission).
Check financing (swap) and inactivity fees.
Test platforms (web/desktop/mobile) via demo.
Review order types (GSLOs, partial close, OCO, advanced stops).
Assess research & education (Spanish content if needed).
Inspect withdrawal timelines & methods for Spain.
Read the firm’s retail loss‑rate disclosure.
Recheck for any CNMV warnings or clone alerts.

11) Conclusion: Picking the Right Broker in Spain

For 2025, Spain‑based traders are well‑served by a set of high‑trust, feature‑rich brokers. If you want:

Best all‑rounder & research: IG
Beginner‑friendly with education: XTB, eToro (social)
Lowest spreads for MT4/MT5: FP Markets (verify your entity’s pricing)
Multi‑asset powerhouse: Interactive Brokers
Platform choice & options: AvaTrade

Regardless of your choice, your results will hinge on risk control, cost discipline, and ongoing learning. Start small, validate your edge, and only scale when performance and process are consistent.

Risk warning: CFDs are complex instruments and carry a high risk of rapid loss due to leverage. A significant share of retail accounts lose money with CFD providers. Assess whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford the high risk of loss.

December 5, 2025

Top Forex Brokers in Germany for 2025: The Ultimate Guide
Germany is one of Europe’s most influential financial hubs, and forex trading has become increasingly popular among retail and institutional investors. With strict regulations under BaFin (Federal Financial Supervisory Authority) and EU directives, traders in Germany enjoy a secure and transparent environment.

However, choosing the right broker is critical for success. This comprehensive guide explores the best forex brokers in Germany for 2025, their features, and what makes them stand out.

Forex trading in Germany is regulated by BaFin, ensuring brokers comply with stringent standards. Key protections include:
- Leverage Cap: Retail traders are limited to 1:30 leverage under ESMA rules.
- Negative Balance Protection: You cannot lose more than your deposit.
- Segregated Accounts: Client funds are kept separate from broker funds.
- Transparency: Brokers must provide clear pricing and risk disclosures.
Always verify a broker’s BaFin license or EU passport compliance before opening an account.

© Shutterstock

Top Forex Brokers in Germany for 2025

1. Pepperstone – Best Overall Broker
- Regulation: BaFin, FCA, ASIC, CySEC.
- Platforms: MT4, MT5, cTrader, TradingView.
- Key Features:
  - Ultra-low spreads (from 0.0 pips on Razor accounts).
  - 90+ currency pairs.
  - Excellent educational resources.
- Why Choose Pepperstone? Ideal for active traders seeking competitive pricing and advanced tools.
72% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider.

Click here to go to Pepperstone’s website

2. XTB – Best for Customer Service
- Regulation: BaFin and other EU authorities.
- Platform: xStation 5 and Mobile.
- Highlights:
  - Spreads starting at 0.1 pips.
  - €0 minimum deposit.
  - Comprehensive education hub.
- Why Choose XTB? Perfect for beginners and intermediate traders who value support and transparency.
70% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.

Click here to go to XTB’s website

3. eToro – Best for Social Trading
- Regulation: CySEC, FCA, ASIC.
- Unique Feature: Copy Trading – follow and replicate trades of experienced investors.
- Assets: 55+ currency pairs, crypto, stocks, ETFs.
- Why Choose eToro? Great for beginners who want to learn by copying top traders.
Don’t invest unless you’re prepared to lose all the money you invest. This is a high-risk investment and you should not expect to be protected if something goes wrong.

Click here to go to eToro’s website

4. Plus500 – Best for Demo Accounts
- Regulation: Multiple top-tier authorities.
- Platform: Proprietary, user-friendly.
- Highlights:
  - Commission-free trading.
  - Advanced risk management tools (Guaranteed Stop Loss).
- Why Choose Plus500? Ideal for traders who want to practice before going live.
76% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider.

Click here to go to Plus500’s website

5. IC Markets – Best for Low Spreads
- Regulation: ASIC, CySEC.
- Platforms: MT4, MT5, cTrader.
- Features:
  - Spreads from 0.0 pips.
  - High leverage for professionals.
- Why Choose IC Markets? Suited for scalpers and algorithmic traders.
Trading Forex and CFDs carries a high level of risk to your capital and you should only trade with money you can afford to lose. Trading Forex and CFDs may not be suitable for all investors, so please ensure that you fully understand the risks involved and seek independent advice if necessary.

Click here to go to IC Market’s website

Tips for Successful Forex Trading in Germany
- Start with a Demo Account: Practice before risking real money.
- Understand Risk Management: Use stop-loss orders and proper position sizing.
- Stay Updated: Follow economic news and central bank announcements.
- Choose the Right Account Type: Standard, ECN, or professional accounts based on your strategy.
© Unsplash

Germany offers one of the safest environments for forex trading thanks to strict regulations and robust investor protections.

Whether you’re a beginner looking for educational resources or a professional seeking advanced tools, the brokers listed above provide excellent options for 2025.
November 27, 2025
Investa Unveils UK’s First Zero-Commission Options Trading App

Investa has launched the UK’s first zero-commission options trading platform, designed to make a traditionally complex and costly investment tool more accessible to retail investors.

Created by former Citi options brokers in collaboration with Freetrade co-founder Ian Fuller, the app debuted on iOS after a soft launch that processed more than 1,400 trades. An Android version is planned in the coming months.

Despite its popularity in the U.S.—where nearly 20% of retail investors trade options—adoption in the UK remains below 2%. Investa attributes this gap to high fees, complicated platforms, and limited access, issues it aims to solve with its streamlined design.

The app gives users exposure to over 200 stocks and ETFs and more than 100,000 listed options contracts. It features plain-language explanations and simplified tools such as “options cards.” Investa runs on a zero-commission model, though other charges may apply, and trading is limited to cash accounts rather than margin.

During its trial phase, U.S. tech stocks dominated activity, with Nvidia representing over 20% of trades.

“Our mission is to make the options market more approachable for UK investors, who we believe are missing out on significant opportunities,” said Alec Beasley, Investa co-founder and CEO. “By removing high costs and overly complex systems, we’re opening the door to a broader audience.”

The launch coincides with Investa’s second crowdfunding campaign on Crowdcube, where it is seeking at least £1 million to support growth and fund the Android rollout.

Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

September 17, 2025
Webull Launches Crypto Trading in Australia

Webull, the U.S.-based trading platform known for its commission-free stock and ETF trading, has officially launched cryptocurrency trading in Australia, marking its third global crypto market entry after the United States and Brazil.

The move comes just days after Webull resumed crypto operations in the U.S., following a two-year regulatory hiatus. The Australian rollout is powered by a strategic partnership with Coinbase Prime, offering access to 240 digital assets with institutional-grade custody and real-time market data

Webull’s crypto offering features a flat 0.30% spread on trades, positioning it among the lowest-cost platforms in Australia. However, users must convert AUD to USD before trading, incurring a 0.50% FX fee, which slightly affects its competitiveness compared to platforms like Binance and Kraken

Despite this, Webull’s integration with Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs), trusts, and corporate accounts makes it a compelling option for investors seeking to diversify their portfolios with digital assets

Rob Talevski, CEO of Webull Securities Australia, emphasized the platform’s mission to empower investors:

“The addition of cryptocurrencies and digital tokens to the Webull platform represents the next phase of our ongoing mission to provide Australian investors with the freedom to trade what they want, when they want,” he said

Webull’s U.S. CEO, Anthony Denier, echoed this sentiment, describing the global rollout as a “full-throttle expansion into everything digital.”

Webull’s entry into Australia aligns with its broader international strategy, with further launches expected in Southeast Asia and the Middle East. The timing also coincides with Australia’s push for clearer crypto regulations, as the re-elected Labor government works to implement a licensing framework for digital asset platforms

Industry experts believe Webull’s presence could pressure local exchanges to lower fees and enhance service offerings, sparking a new wave of competition in the Australian crypto spaceing a new wave of competition in the Australian crypto space.

September 16, 2025
Webull Enters EU Market
Webull, the American trading app known for its commission-free investing platform, has officially launched its European operations by opening a new office in Amsterdam. This marks the company’s first direct entry into the European Union market, following its earlier expansion into the UK.

The launch comes nearly a year after Webull Securities (Europe) B.V. received regulatory approval from the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM) in September 2024. The company spent the intervening months preparing its infrastructure, compliance systems, and user experience for the European audience.

What Webull Offers to Dutch Investors

Dutch retail investors now have access to:
- European and U.S. stocks, including fractional shares
- European ETFs
- U.S. options
- Extended trading hours
- Market news, educational content, and trading tools via the Webull mobile app
The platform aims to attract users with competitive pricing and a user-friendly interface, positioning itself as a strong alternative to other retail investment platforms like Robinhood.

Strategic Expansion Across Europe

Webull’s Amsterdam office is just the beginning. The company plans to expand into other EU countries in the coming months, leveraging its existing infrastructure and regulatory experience. This move adds the Netherlands as the 14th market in Webull’s global portfolio, which spans North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, and Latin America.

With over 24 million registered users globally, Webull is betting on the growing demand for low-cost, accessible investing in Europe. According to Andries van Luijk, CEO of Webull EU, the European public is increasingly seeking investment opportunities that are both affordable and internationally diversified.

A Growing Footprint in Europe

Webull’s European journey began in 2023 with its UK launch under the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) license. The Dutch expansion reflects the company’s commitment to building a strong presence across the continent.

Anthony Denier, Group President and U.S. CEO of Webull, emphasized the strategic importance of the EU launch:

“This expansion establishes our presence in Europe and reflects our commitment to making investing more accessible worldwide.”
September 8, 2025
CySEC’s 2025 CFD Crackdown: What Retail Traders Must Know About New Leverage Limits and Compliance Rules
The Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) has introduced a sweeping update to its regulatory framework for Contracts for Difference (CFDs), marking a significant shift in how retail investors can engage with these high-risk financial instruments. The directive, published in the Official Gazette on September 5, 2025, aims to bolster investor protection and align Cyprus more closely with stricter EU jurisdictions.

Key Changes Introduced by CySEC
1. Leverage Restrictions on Specific CFDs
  One of the most impactful changes is the imposition of a 10% notional value cap on CFDs tied to certain previously unlisted commodities and stock indices. This effectively limits the leverage retail investors can use, reducing their exposure to volatile and speculative assets.
2. Expanded Oversight and Compliance Requirements
  CySEC is reinforcing its oversight mechanisms by integrating the new directive with its existing 2019 CFD framework. This dual-layered approach is designed to prevent regulatory arbitrage and ensure consistent enforcement across the financial sector.
3. Sanctions Enforcement Framework
  In response to evolving geopolitical risks, CySEC has rolled out a new framework to enforce EU and UN sanctions more effectively. This includes the creation of the National Sanctions Implementation Unit under the Ministry of Finance, which will monitor transactions, identify breaches, and require firms to report suspicious activity.
4. Capital Adequacy and Governance Rules
  Starting in early 2025, CySEC will implement European Banking Authority (EBA) guidelines for FX and CFD brokers operating as Cyprus Investment Firms. These rules clarify the group capital test under the Investment Firms Regulation, focusing on:
  - Capital adequacyRisk managementGovernance structures
5. Low-risk firms may apply for reduced capital requirements, but CySEC retains the authority to revoke such permissions if conditions change.
What This Means for Retail Traders

Retail investors trading CFDs under CySEC-regulated brokers will face:
- Lower leverage, especially on high-risk instruments
- Stricter onboarding and compliance checks
- Reduced marketing and promotional offers, as CySEC continues to discourage aggressive sales tactics
- Greater transparency and risk disclosures
These changes are part of a broader EU-wide trend toward de-risking retail financial markets, especially in speculative products like CFDs and forex.

Industry Impact and Future Outlook

CySEC’s move is expected to:
- Raise operational costs for brokers due to enhanced compliance and reporting requirements
- Shift retail trading behavior toward more conservative strategies
- Encourage broker consolidation, as smaller firms may struggle to meet the new capital and governance standards
With over 830 entities under supervision and a €17.5 million budget for 2025, CySEC is positioning itself as a leading regulator in the EU, ready to tackle challenges from digital transformation to MiCA and DORA compliance.
September 8, 2025
Webull Relaunches Crypto Trading in the U.S
Webull (NASDAQ:BULL), the fast-growing digital investment platform, has officially resumed cryptocurrency trading for its U.S. clients, marking a major milestone in its post-IPO evolution. The move comes after a two-year pause initiated during the company’s IPO preparations and regulatory restructuring. Now, with over 50 digital assets available and a fully integrated trading experience, Webull is positioning itself as a formidable player in the global crypto market.

A Unified Platform for Modern Investors

Previously, Webull users had to access crypto trading through a separate app; Webull Pay. With the latest update, crypto trading is now fully integrated into the main Webull app, allowing users to manage stocks, options, ETFs, and digital assets all in one place

This reintegration simplifies the user experience and reflects Webull’s broader mission to offer a seamless, all-in-one investment platform.

“By reintegrating crypto trading into the Webull app, we are making it easier for customers to access and manage their entire portfolio,” said Anthony Denier, U.S. CEO and Group President at Webull

What’s New for U.S. Users?

Webull now supports 24/7 trading of over 50 cryptocurrencies, including major tokens like Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), Cardano (ADA), and Dogecoin (DOGE)

The platform offers:
- Real-time charts and technical indicators
- Custom price alerts
- Institutional-grade security
- No custody fees
- Minimum trade size as low as $1
The crypto services are provided through Webull Pay LLC, a licensed money transmitter, with custody solutions supported by Bakkt Crypto Solutions

Regulatory Readiness and Market Timing

Webull’s decision to pause crypto trading in 2023 was largely driven by its IPO ambitions and the need to align with evolving U.S. regulatory standards. The company officially went public on NASDAQ (Ticker: BULL) in April 2025

With improved regulatory clarity and a more favorable political climate in Washington, Webull has now re-entered the crypto space with renewed confidence

“This move signals our readiness to comply with U.S. regulations and our commitment to offering secure, compliant digital asset services,” said Denier.

Global Expansion and Competitive Positioning

Webull’s crypto relaunch is not limited to the U.S. The company has already rolled out crypto trading in Brazil and plans to expand into additional markets in the coming months

With over 24 million users globally, Webull is aiming to challenge established players like Robinhood and Coinbase by offering a unified platform for both traditional and digital assets

About Webull

Founded in 2016 by Wang Anquan, Webull has grown into a global fintech powerhouse. Headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida, the company offers commission-free trading of stocks, ETFs, options, and cryptocurrencies through its mobile and desktop platforms

Key facts:
- Employees: ~1,100
- IPO Date: April 2025
- Market Cap: $7.7 billion
- Revenue Streams: Payment for order flow, margin lending, crypto trading, premium subscriptions.
Webull is registered with the SEC, FINRA, CFTC, and is a member of SIPC and NFA, ensuring compliance across its brokerage and crypto operations
August 26, 2025
WeTrade and Paris Saint-Germain Forge Global Sponsorship Deal
In a landmark move that bridges the worlds of finance and football, WeTrade, a leading global CFD and Forex trading platform, has announced a multi-year sponsorship agreement with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), one of Europe’s most iconic football clubs. The partnership, which runs through 2028, marks a significant milestone for both entities, aligning their shared values of excellence, innovation, and global reach

A Strategic Alliance

The collaboration comes as WeTrade celebrates its 10th anniversary, a decade marked by rapid growth, technological innovation, and global expansion. With operations spanning Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East, and Oceania, WeTrade has positioned itself as a top-tier broker in the retail trading space. The partnership with PSG is expected to amplify WeTrade’s brand visibility, connecting it to over 230 million PSG followers and hundreds of millions of matchday viewers worldwide

George Miltiadou, CEO of WeTrade EU, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership:

“WeTrade is honoured to be chosen by Paris Saint-Germain as its official partner. As a global brand ourselves, we understand the value of investing in excellence, innovation, and empowerment. This partnership is a perfect match, and we are excited to kick things off and make it a winning collaboration.”

Richard Heaselgrave, PSG’s Chief Revenue Officer, echoed the sentiment:

“This partnership with WeTrade reflects Paris Saint-Germain’s ongoing ambition to collaborate with leading international brands that share our values of excellence and innovation. Together, we will create new opportunities to engage our fans worldwide.”

Who Is WeTrade?

Founded in 2015, WeTrade has grown into an award-winning broker known for its client-centric approach, secure capital management, flexible leverage, and low spreads. The company has received numerous accolades over the years, including:
- Best Trading Execution by Fazzaco
- Best ECN/STP Broker by Forex-Awards
- Broker of the Year by Mindanao Traders Expo
- Most Trusted Broker and Trading Platform Global by World Business Outlook
WeTrade has also made headlines for its innovative rewards program, which has seen clients walk away with luxury prizes such as a Tesla Model X and Toyota Avalon. The broker introduced Islamic accounts in 2023 and expanded its offerings to include stock trading, further diversifying its product suite

Regulatory Footprint and Expansion

WeTrade holds an ASIC license in Australia and operates offshore entities in Labuan (Malaysia) and Seychelles. Recently, it was granted a CySEC CIF license in Cyprus, signaling its intent to expand across Europe. The company has bolstered its leadership team with seasoned professionals from firms like IQ Option, LegacyFX, ETX Capital, and eToro, reinforcing its commitment to regulatory compliance and operational excellence

ADVFN’s Strategic Acquisition: HotCopper and Stockhouse

In parallel to WeTrade’s expansion, ADVFN, a global financial information provider, has acquired HotCopper (Australia) and Stockhouse (Canada)—two of the most prominent retail investor platforms. The acquisition, valued at $4.43 million USD, positions ADVFN as a dominant force in the small-cap investor space, with a combined reach of over 3 million monthly users

HotCopper alone attracts 520,000 monthly unique users and generates 34 million page views, offering brokers like WeTrade premium advertising opportunities. The acquisition is expected to create synergies across ADVFN’s network, integrating subscription tools, advertising models, and investor engagement strategies

The partnership between WeTrade and PSG is more than a branding exercise—it’s a strategic alignment of two global powerhouses. As WeTrade continues to expand its footprint and enhance its offerings, the sponsorship deal with PSG provides a high-visibility platform to engage millions of potential clients. Coupled with ADVFN’s acquisition of HotCopper and Stockhouse, the landscape for retail investor engagement is rapidly evolving, offering new opportunities for brokers, investors, and advertisers alike.

Photo by Peter Glaser on Unsplash
August 22, 2025
Pepperstone Strengthens Executive Team: Tom Williams Named COO, Rob Bowen Appointed CCO

Leading global forex and CFD broker Pepperstone has announced significant changes to its executive leadership team, reinforcing its commitment to operational excellence and global expansion. The company has promoted Tom Williams to Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Rob Bowen to Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), marking a strategic shift in its senior management structure.

Tom Williams steps into the COO role after serving as General Manager – Financial Risk, Analytics & Operations since joining Pepperstone in 2022

Based in Melbourne, Williams has played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s risk strategy and operational framework. His promotion reflects Pepperstone’s focus on leveraging internal talent to drive growth and innovation.

Before joining Pepperstone, Williams spent nearly a decade at GO Markets, where he held the position of Head of Trading and later served as Responsible Manager (AFSL)

His deep expertise in financial risk, analytics, and trading operations positions him well to oversee Pepperstone’s global operations and market risk functions.

Rob Bowen, previously Group COO and CEO of Pepperstone Ltd (UK), has been promoted to Chief Commercial Officer

With over 25 years of experience in the trading industry, Bowen brings a wealth of knowledge in derivatives, CFDs, and commercial strategy. His career includes a notable tenure at IG Group, where he served as Commercial Director

In his new role, Bowen will lead Pepperstone’s global commercial strategy, including marketing, product development, and client engagement. His appointment aligns with the company’s goal to enhance its commercial footprint across key markets in Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Pepperstone CEO Tamas Szabo commented on the leadership changes:

“Rob’s new title better reflects his role of looking after all commercial aspects of the business, including marketing and a newly elevated product function. Tom Williams has been promoted to the executive team and will oversee all operational aspects of the business while continuing to manage market risk.”

These executive appointments come amid Pepperstone’s broader strategy to expand globally and enhance client experience. The company has recently launched new initiatives aimed at increasing user engagement, growing its partner network, and improving technological resilience

Pepperstone’s UK entity, under Bowen’s leadership, posted a £9.9 million profit on trading revenue exceeding £13 million, despite a slight year-over-year decline

This financial performance underscores the effectiveness of its leadership and operational strategies.

In addition to Williams and Bowen, Pepperstone has promoted Mariia Erokhina to General Manager of Information Security and Compliance, and appointed Kim Reilly from FP Markets as Head of Client Experience

These moves further solidify the company’s commitment to security, compliance, and customer satisfaction.

Pepperstone’s latest executive reshuffle signals a renewed focus on operational efficiency and commercial growth.

With seasoned professionals like Tom Williams and Rob Bowen at the helm, the company is well-positioned to navigate the evolving landscape of global financial markets and deliver enhanced value to its clients.

August 19, 2025
Plus500 Accelerates Shareholder Returns with $90 Million Buyback
Plus500 Ltd (LSE: PLUS), the London-listed online trading platform, has launched a new $90 million share buyback programme, reinforcing its commitment to delivering robust shareholder returns and showcasing its financial strength

This move is part of a broader $165 million capital return initiative, which also includes $75 million in dividends

In the first half of 2025, Plus500 reported impressive financial results:
- Revenue: $209.3 million
- EBITDA: $91.3 million
- Customer Deposits: A record $3.1 billion
- Cash Reserves: Approximately $900 million 1
These figures reflect the company’s strong operational momentum and cash-generative business model. The buyback programme, which allows for the repurchase of up to 5.87 million shares, will run until March 31, 2026

Strategic Rationale Behind the Buyback

The buyback is designed to reduce the number of shares in circulation, potentially boosting earnings per share and enhancing shareholder value. Plus500’s board emphasized that this initiative aligns with its disciplined capital allocation strategy and long-term growth vision

Market Reaction and Analyst Sentiment

Despite the announcement, Plus500 shares dipped slightly by 0.4% on the day

However, analysts remain optimistic. Peel Hunt recently raised its target price for Plus500 to 3,400p, citing strong performance and continued cash generation

The company’s shares also hit an all-time high of 3,070p earlier this month

Broader Strategic Moves

Beyond shareholder returns, Plus500 continues to pursue both organic and inorganic growth. The company has maintained a debt-free balance sheet and is actively exploring expansion opportunities, including entry into new markets such as Canada’s OTC sector

Plus500’s latest financial maneuvers underscore its resilience and strategic foresight in a volatile market. With a solid cash position, record customer engagement, and a clear focus on shareholder value, the company is well-positioned for sustained growth.
August 18, 2025