69% of retail investor accounts lose money when spread betting and/or trading CFDs with this provider.
Key facts
- Regulation: CMC Markets UK plc — FCA, FRN 173730
- Founded: 1989, London; parent listed on the London Stock Exchange
- Products: spread betting and CFDs (investing via a separate entity)
- EUR/USD: around 0.6 pips on average; 0.0 + commission on FX Active
- Platforms: Next Generation (web and apps), MT4
- Minimum deposit: none
Who is CMC Markets?
CMC Markets was founded in London in 1989 and was one of the first firms to offer online forex trading to private clients. Its parent company is listed on the London Stock Exchange. UK spread betting and CFDs are provided by CMC Markets UK plc, while CMC Markets Investments Limited (FRN 948126) offers investing products.
Accounts and pricing
| Account | Pricing |
|---|---|
| Standard (spread betting or CFD) | Spread only; EUR/USD around 0.6 pips on average |
| FX Active | 0.0 minimum spreads on six major pairs plus a 0.0025% commission |
| Demo | Free practice account |
Platforms
The Next Generation platform is CMC's main draw: advanced charting, pattern recognition, client sentiment, price ladders and a wide range of order types in a browser or app. MetaTrader 4 is also available for traders who rely on Expert Advisors.
Safety
CMC Markets UK plc holds retail client money in segregated accounts, provides negative balance protection and applies FCA leverage limits. Eligible clients are protected by the FSCS.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Excellent Next Generation platform
- Spread betting and CFDs
- FX Active raw-pricing option
- No minimum deposit
- Long history, LSE-listed parent
Cons
- Platform depth has a learning curve
- No MT5 or cTrader
- Inactivity fee may apply to dormant accounts
Verdict
CMC Markets is a top-tier choice for UK traders who value charting and platform tools. Traders who live in MetaTrader and want a focused raw-spread account may prefer Hantec Markets — see our comparison.
Frequently asked questions
Is CMC Markets regulated?
Yes. CMC Markets UK plc is authorised and regulated by the FCA (FRN 173730).
What is the FX Active account?
An account offering 0.0 minimum spreads on six major FX pairs with a small percentage commission instead of a wider spread.
Does CMC Markets have a minimum deposit?
There's no minimum deposit, though you need enough funds to cover margin on your trades.
Is CMC Markets safe and legit?
CMC Markets serves UK clients through an FCA-authorised entity, which must segregate client money, provide negative balance protection to retail clients and give eligible clients access to the Financial Ombudsman and FSCS. As with any leveraged product, your trading capital is still at risk.
CFDs and spread bets are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. Most retail investor accounts lose money when trading these products. You should consider whether you understand how they work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.