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Tag: Trading

  • Top Forex Brokers in Germany for 2025: The Ultimate Guide

    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.

  • Investa Unveils UK’s First Zero-Commission Options Trading App

    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.

  • CySEC’s 2025 CFD Crackdown: What Retail Traders Must Know About New Leverage Limits and Compliance Rules

    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.

  • Plus500 Accelerates Shareholder Returns with $90 Million Buyback

    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.

  • Robinhood Expands to MENA Region with Dubai DFSA License Application and Key Executive Hire

    Robinhood Expands to MENA Region with Dubai DFSA License Application and Key Executive Hire

    In a strategic move to broaden its global footprint, Robinhood Markets Inc. (NASDAQ: HOOD), the prominent U.S.-based neobroker, has initiated plans to establish operations in Dubai. The company has formally applied for a Category 4 license from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), signaling its intent to serve clients across the UAE and the wider Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

    The license, once approved, will enable Robinhood to operate from the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), a leading financial hub in the region. This expansion marks a significant milestone in Robinhood’s international growth strategy, which has recently seen increased activity in Europe and Asia.

    To spearhead its MENA operations, Robinhood has appointed Mario Camara as Senior Executive Officer. Camara brings extensive experience in the FX and CFDs industry, having previously served as Senior Vice President of Licensing & Government Relations at Equiti Group. His tenure at Equiti spanned six years, following earlier leadership roles at Saxo Bank, where he was Managing Director for the MENA region based in DIFC.

    Robinhood’s move into Dubai follows a series of international initiatives, including the launch of its Legend desktop trading platform in the UK and sponsorship of French football club OGC Nice. The company has also introduced innovative products tailored to European investors, such as US stock and ETF tokens and perpetual futures.

    While Robinhood has been relatively quiet about its plans for the MENA region, the recent developments suggest a rapid acceleration of its presence in Dubai. A formal announcement detailing its regional strategy is expected in the coming weeks.

    This expansion aligns with Robinhood’s mission to democratize finance globally, offering accessible and innovative trading solutions to a broader audience.

  • Plus500 Applies for Chilean License as It Expands Global Trading Footprint

    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.

  • eToro Profits Down 50% in Q2 2025 as Revenue Slumps for Second Straight Quarter

    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.

  • Moneta Markets Secures FCA License Through VIBHS Acquisition, Expands into UK Market

    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.

  • FundingPips Appoints FCA Alum Andria Evripidou as Managing Director to Drive Global Expansion

    FundingPips Appoints FCA Alum Andria Evripidou as Managing Director to Drive Global Expansion

    In a strategic move aimed at strengthening its leadership and regulatory expertise, FundingPips, a fast-growing proprietary trading firm based in Dubai, has appointed Andria Evripidou as its new Group Managing Director. The announcement marks a significant milestone in the firm’s evolution as it continues to scale its global operations and enhance its trader-first model.

    A Deep Regulatory and Fintech Background

    Andria Evripidou brings a wealth of experience to FundingPips. A native of Cyprus, she previously served as a Senior Policy Advisor at the UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) from 2015 to 2020, where she specialized in payments policy. Her post-FCA career included a stint at Revolut as Global Authorisations Senior Manager, and more recently, she founded XDA, a startup offering crypto and banking solutions for iGaming companies.

    She also held the role of Chief Banking Officer at Xace, an alternative banking provider focused on fintech and high-growth digital sectors. Evripidou holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Cambridge, and both a Master’s and PhD in Econometrics and Quantitative Economics from the University of Nottingham.

    FundingPips stated that Evripidou’s appointment will “drive strategic growth, compliance excellence, and trader‑first innovation, all while fostering a high-performance leadership culture.

    Founded in 2020 by Khaled Ayesh, FundingPips has quickly emerged as one of the most dynamic prop trading firms in the industry. Built on a “by traders, for traders” philosophy, the firm offers simulated trading environments where traders can earn up to 100% of profits without risking personal capital.

    Key Features of FundingPips:

    • Flexible Evaluation Models: One-phase and two-phase challenges with no time limits.
    • Profit Sharing: Up to 100% for top-tier traders.
    • Platforms Supported: MetaTrader 5, Match-Trader, and cTrader.
    • Global Reach: Over 1 million traders from 195+ countries.
    • Funding Options: Up to $300,000 in simulated capital.
    • Fast Payouts: Over $135 million paid out to traders globally.

    FundingPips operates under FP Funding LLC, headquartered in Dubai, and has earned a 4.5-star Trustpilot rating based on more than 23,000 reviews.

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

    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.