AvaTrade vs CMC Markets: which broker is better in 2026?
We compare AvaTrade and CMC Markets — two forex & CFD brokers — side by side across regulation, fees, platforms, minimum deposit, and our editorial scores. Based on our overall editorial score, CMC Markets edges ahead (4.0/5), but the right choice depends on what matters most to you — check the breakdown below.
Side-by-side comparison
CriteriaAvaTradeCMC Markets
Overall score 3.6 4.0
Regulation & safety 3.5 4.0
Fees & deposit 3.5 3.5
Platform & assets 4.0 4.5
User support 3.5 4.0
Trust score72/10080/100
Minimum depositVaries by account type — check the official siteVaries by account type — check the official site
Demo accountAvailableAvailable
PlatformsMetaTrader 4/5, AvaTradeGO (mobile), AvaOptions, WebTraderProprietary web platform (Next Generation), MetaTrader 4, TradingView (integrated), Mobile app
Fee modelSpread model — details not yet verifiedSpread & commission model varies per product — details not yet verified
Pros & cons
- Supervised by the Central Bank of Ireland + multiple global entities; founded 2006
- Full platform selection (MT4/MT5/AvaTradeGO/AvaOptions)
- Broad instrument coverage including options
- A private company — financial transparency more limited than a public company
- Some clients via offshore entities
- Leverage is high-risk
- Public company (LSE FTSE 250, since 1989) regulated by the FCA + Bermuda Monetary Authority
- Highly regarded Next Generation platform + MT4 + TradingView integration
- Broad coverage: forex/share/index CFDs, spread betting, and share dealing
- Historical note: ASIC once ordered retail-client remediation over margin-netting breaches
- Focus on leveraged CFD/spread betting products — high-risk
- Not the choice for those chasing the cheapest cost/raw ECN
Regulation at a glance
AvaTrade
Supervised by the Central Bank of Ireland as its primary regulator (mentioned by Wikipedia in the context of an acquisition blocked by this regulator). Operates multiple entities globally — license status per entity not verified in detail.
CMC Markets
Regulated by the FCA in the UK; holds an additional license from the Bermuda Monetary Authority. Listed on the London Stock Exchange (FTSE 250).