Tag: Forex

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 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
Ultima Markets Buys Tiger Brokers UK in Strategic FCA License Grab

In a bold and unexpected move, offshore CFDs broker Ultima Markets has acquired Tiger Brokers (UK) Ltd, securing a coveted FCA license and marking its formal entry into the UK’s highly regulated financial services market.

The acquisition comes at a time when several brokers are exiting the UK due to rising regulatory costs and competitive pressures, making Ultima’s expansion a notable exception in the current industry trend.

The deal, finalized in July 2025, was initiated in late 2024 when Tiger Brokers, a subsidiary of Nasdaq-listed UP Fintech Holding Ltd (TIGR), began winding down its UK operations. Ultima Markets injected £658,000 into the business to cover operational expenses during the transition, ultimately acquiring the dormant entity and its valuable regulatory status.

The firm has since been rebranded as Ultima Markets UK Limited, allowing Ultima to bypass the lengthy and complex process of applying for a new FCA license from scratch.

Tiger Brokers UK had been largely inactive in recent years, reporting zero revenue from 2021 to 2024 and accumulating £4.6 million in losses. At the time of acquisition, the firm held no client funds and had ceased onboarding new customers.

Despite its lack of commercial activity, the FCA license remained a strategic asset, offering Ultima Markets a fast-track route into one of the world’s most respected financial jurisdictions.

Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Mauritius, Ultima Markets has built a strong presence across Asia-Pacific, particularly in China, South Africa, and Southeast Asia.

Known for offering over 250 CFD instruments across forex, indices, commodities, and shares, Ultima operates on platforms like MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and runs a dedicated Trading Academy aimed at improving financial literacy and trading skills.

The company also made headlines as the first CFD broker to join the UN Global Compact, signaling its commitment to sustainable finance and ethical business practices.

With the acquisition complete, Ultima Markets plans to launch a localized UK offering in 2026, tailored to meet FCA compliance standards.

This includes enhanced client onboarding procedures, transparent pricing models, and a renewed focus on trader education.

A company spokesperson stated, “We believe we can find our space in this mature market and deliver value to UK traders. Becoming FCA-regulated reflects our long-term commitment to transparency and integrity.”

Ultima’s entry into the UK contrasts sharply with the recent exits of brokers such as Tiger Brokers, Aetos, and Trive, who have cited high operational costs and regulatory burdens as key reasons for leaving.

However, Ultima joins a small but growing group of firms—including GTN and Moneta Markets—that are betting on the long-term potential of the UK’s retail trading sector.

The acquisition also reflects a broader trend of offshore brokers seeking legitimacy and global reach through regulatory approvals.

For UK traders, Ultima promises a fresh alternative to legacy platforms, offering competitive spreads, fast execution, and a strong emphasis on responsible trading.

As the UK financial landscape continues to evolve, Ultima Markets’ strategic acquisition of Tiger Brokers UK may signal a renewed wave of international interest in FCA-regulated operations.

With its global experience and commitment to compliance, Ultima is positioning itself as a serious contender in the UK’s crowded but lucrative retail trading market.

August 13, 2025
Plus500 Applies for Chilean License as It Expands Global Trading Footprint

Plus500 Ltd (LSE:PLUS), the London-listed global multi-asset fintech group, has officially applied for a regulatory license to operate in Chile, one of the region’s most promising financial markets

The application is being processed through La Comisión para el Mercado Financiero (CMF), Chile’s financial markets regulator. Plus500 is working closely with Carey Abogados, a prominent local law firm, to navigate the regulatory landscape and secure the necessary approvals

Plus500’s interest in Chile is not sudden. The company registered a local entity in 2024, laying the groundwork for its market entry. Key executives, including CEO David Zruia, CFO Elad Even-Chen, and Ofir Chudin, CEO of Plus500’s Cyprus entity, are listed as directors of the Chilean subsidiary

This move aligns with Plus500’s broader strategy of global expansion through licensing and acquisitions. In its latest half-year results, the company reiterated its commitment to entering new markets, either by acquiring local firms or securing regulatory licenses

Why Chile?

Chile has emerged as a hotspot for online trading platforms, thanks to its favorable regulatory environment. Unlike the UK and EU, Chile does not impose stringent leverage restrictions or aggressive risk warnings. For instance, rival broker XTB offers leverage up to 500:1 on certain products

Other major players like Pepperstone have also received CMF approval and begun operations in the country, indicating a growing appetite for CFD and forex trading among Chilean investors

Despite its presence in major markets such as the UK, US, Japan, Australia, Singapore, and India, Plus500 has yet to establish a foothold in Latin America. Chile represents a regulatory blank spot for the broker, and entering this market could unlock significant growth potential.

While some brokers like XM and Exness have aggressively targeted Latin America, the profitability of these ventures remains unclear. However, XTB CEO Omar Arnaout previously stated that Chile could become one of the company’s top five branches globally, underscoring the region’s strategic importance

If approved, Plus500 will join a growing list of international brokers operating in Chile, offering retail investors access to a wide range of trading instruments. The move could also pave the way for further expansion into neighboring markets such as Brazil, Colombia, and Peru.

This development follows Plus500’s recent licensing wins in Canada and the UAE, as well as its growing futures business in the US, which is expected to generate over $100 million in revenue in 2025

Plus500’s application for a Chilean license is more than just a regional play—it’s a calculated step in its mission to become a truly global fintech powerhouse.

As Latin America continues to attract attention from major brokers, Plus500’s entry into Chile could mark the beginning of a new chapter in its international growth story.

August 13, 2025
eToro Profits Down 50% in Q2 2025 as Revenue Slumps for Second Straight Quarter

Social trading platform eToro Group Ltd (NASDAQ:ETOR) has posted its second consecutive quarterly decline in revenue and profit, marking Q2 2025 as its least profitable quarter since 2023

Following its IPO in May, eToro reported a 44% drop in total revenue and income, falling from $3.76 billion in Q1 to $2.09 billion in Q2. Adjusting for crypto-related revenue and costs, the company’s net revenue stood at $217 million, down 4% from $227 million in Q1 and significantly lower than the $262 million recorded in Q4 2024

Net income also took a hit, plunging 50% to $30 million, compared to $60 million in the previous quarter.

Despite the financial downturn, eToro saw a modest increase in funded accounts, rising to 3.63 million, and an 18% growth in Assets Under Administration, reaching $17.5 billion—boosted by strong equity and crypto market valuations

eToro’s stock performance mirrored its financial results. After peaking at $79.96 in early June, shares have dropped over 30%, closing at $55.30, just above its IPO price of $52

CEO Yoni Assia remained optimistic, highlighting product innovations and geographic expansion:

“We delivered another strong quarter in terms of innovation, launching 24/5 trading for U.S. equities, new long-term portfolios with Franklin Templeton, and savings products in France. Our new Singapore hub also strengthens our presence in Asia.”

Looking ahead, eToro plans to invest in tokenization and AI-driven tools to enhance retail investor engagement and unlock new growth opportunities.

August 12, 2025
Moneta Markets Secures FCA License Through VIBHS Acquisition, Expands into UK Market
In a strategic move to strengthen its regulatory footprint and expand into the UK trading market, Moneta Markets, a global retail FX and CFD broker, has acquired VIBHS Financial Ltd, a UK-based firm holding a Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) license since 2014

The acquisition allows Moneta Markets to operate under FCA oversight, marking a significant milestone in its global expansion strategy. VIBHS, previously owned by Dubai-based Indian businessman Piyushkumar Parekh, had been relatively inactive in recent years, reporting revenues of just £358,000 for the fiscal year ending March 2025

Moneta Markets: From Offshore Brand to Global Player

Founded in 2020 as a spin-off from Australia-based broker Vantage, Moneta Markets was initially domiciled in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Under the leadership of David Bily, former CMO of Vantage, the firm has evolved into a standalone brokerage with a growing international presence.

Moneta Markets now operates under multiple regulatory licenses, including:
- FCA (UK) – via VIBHS acquisition
- FSCA (South Africa) – FSP License No. 47490
- SLIBC (St. Lucia) – Reg. No. 2023-00068
The company is managed primarily from Dubai, reflecting its strategic focus on emerging markets and global accessibility.

Trading Features and Reach

Moneta Markets offers access to over 1,000 tradable instruments, including:
- Forex pairs
- Index and commodity CFDs
- Individual stock CFDs
- ETFs and crypto CFDs
The broker boasts:
- Over 70,000 active trading accounts
- More than 1.5 million trades monthly
- Monthly trading volumes exceeding $100 billion
Its infrastructure includes ultra-fast execution via Equinix data centers in New York, London, and Hong Kong, and platforms such as MetaTrader 4/5, ProTrader, and CopyTrader.

Brand Partnerships and Promotions

Moneta Markets recently became the official sponsor of Atlético de Madrid in APAC, reinforcing its brand visibility in key regions. The broker also offers a 50% cashback bonus for new deposits over $500, converting bonus credits into real cash as clients trade.

Industry Impact

The FCA license acquisition places Moneta Markets among a growing list of offshore brokers seeking regulatory legitimacy in Tier-1 jurisdictions. It also reflects a broader trend of consolidation and strategic licensing in the retail trading space.
August 7, 2025
Orbex Shuts Down EU Operations, Surrenders CySEC License After 15 Years

In a significant shift within the retail forex and CFD brokerage industry, Orbex Ltd, a long-standing player in the European financial markets, has officially ceased operations in the European Union and voluntarily surrendered its Cyprus Investment Firm (CIF) license issued by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC).

The move marks the end of a 15-year chapter for Orbex in the EU, where it operated as a regulated broker offering contracts for difference (CFDs) and other trading services to retail clients across the bloc.

A Quiet Exit from the EU Market

Orbex’s EU website now displays a farewell message, stating that the final day of business was July 15, 2025. Clients were instructed to close all open positions and withdraw funds before the deadline. The company expressed gratitude to its European clients, saying:

“After fifteen years in business, Orbex Ltd has decided to close our doors in the EU. We can’t fully express our deep gratitude for your business and support.”

No official reason has been provided for the exit, although the move follows a broader trend of retail brokers withdrawing from the EU due to tightening regulations and operational constraints.

From Regulated to Offshore

Orbex had previously operated in the UK market by passporting its CySEC license, but exited following post-Brexit regulatory changes. The FCA register now confirms that Orbex can no longer conduct regulated business in the UK unless specific exclusions apply.

Following its EU departure, Orbex has transitioned to operating exclusively from offshore jurisdictions, including Mauritius, Seychelles, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. These regions offer more flexible regulatory environments, allowing Orbex to continue serving retail clients globally.

Orbex’s Global Strategy and Expansion

Founded in 2010, Orbex built its reputation on providing multi-asset trading, advanced analytics, and educational resources for retail traders. The broker has consistently invested in technology, offering platforms like MetaTrader 4, and has focused on emerging markets in recent years.

In 2023, Orbex acquired the retail business and client base of HonorFX, a move aimed at expanding its footprint in Asia and the Middle East. This acquisition signaled a strategic pivot toward regions with growing demand for online trading and fewer regulatory hurdles.

Industry Context: A Broader Trend

Orbex is not alone in its decision to exit the EU. Other major brokers such as BDSwiss and FXTM have also surrendered their CySEC licenses and moved offshore, citing similar challenges. The EU’s increasingly stringent compliance requirements, including MiFID II and SFDR regulations, have made it difficult for smaller brokers to maintain profitability while adhering to complex rules.

August 6, 2025
XTB Posts Strong Q2 2025 Profits Despite Flat Revenue, Driven by Record Trading Volumes and Client Growth

Leading retail forex and CFD broker XTB (WSE:XTB) has reported a robust second quarter for 2025, with net profits rising 11% year-over-year to $58 million, despite revenue remaining flat at $155 million. The company’s performance underscores its resilience amid fluctuating market conditions and continued expansion in client acquisition.

Record Trading Volumes Fuel Profit Growth

XTB’s Q2 trading volumes surged to an average of $382 billion per month, marking a 22% increase from Q1’s $313 billion. This growth came even as profitability per $1 million in transaction volume dipped from 144 to 128, reflecting tighter margins in a volatile market environment.

The quarter began with heightened market activity, largely attributed to geopolitical tensions stemming from President Donald Trump’s trade war, which later subsided, allowing markets to stabilize.

Client Base Expansion Hits New Highs

XTB’s client acquisition strategy continues to pay dividends. In the first half of 2025, the broker added 361,643 new clients, a 55.7% increase compared to the same period last year. The number of active clients also soared by 69.9% year-over-year, reaching 853,938.

CFDs on Indices Lead Revenue Generation

In terms of asset classes, CFDs based on indices dominated XTB’s revenue structure, accounting for 46.3% of total revenue in H1 2025. This was driven by high profitability from instruments tied to the US 100, German DAX (DE40), and US 500 indices.

Commodities-based CFDs followed, contributing 33.1% of revenue, with strong performance from trades involving gold, crude oil, natural gas, and coffee. Currency-based CFDs, including popular pairs like EUR/USD and Bitcoin, made up 15.6% of revenue, up from 10.3% the previous year.

Cost Management Enhances Profitability

XTB also reported a PLN 22.9 million reduction in operating expenses quarter-over-quarter, primarily due to a PLN 17.7 million cut in marketing costs. This strategic cost control helped bolster net profits despite flat revenue.

August 1, 2025