AvaTrade vs FXCM: which broker is better in 2026?
We compare AvaTrade and FXCM — two forex & CFD brokers — side by side across regulation, fees, platforms, minimum deposit, and our editorial scores. Based on our overall editorial score, AvaTrade edges ahead (3.6/5), but the right choice depends on what matters most to you — check the breakdown below.
Side-by-side comparison
CriteriaAvaTradeFXCM
Overall score 3.6 3.5
Regulation & safety 3.5 3.0
Fees & deposit 3.5 3.5
Platform & assets 4.0 4.0
User support 3.5 3.5
Trust score72/10068/100
Minimum depositVaries by account type — check the official siteVaries by account type — check the official site
Demo accountAvailableAvailable
PlatformsMetaTrader 4/5, AvaTradeGO (mobile), AvaOptions, WebTraderTrading Station (web/desktop/mobile), MetaTrader 4, TradingView (integrated), API
Fee modelSpread model — details not yet verifiedSpread model or spread + commission (Active Trader) — varies; exact figures 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
- An established broker since 1999 with the mature Trading Station & MT4 platforms
- Now backed by a large financial group (Jefferies/StoneX)
- International entities regulated by FCA/ASIC/FSCA
- Permanently banned from the US market (2017) + a US$7 million fine for hiding a conflict of interest — a serious regulatory record
- Trust was dented by that case; verify the entity serving your region
- Leveraged products are high-risk
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.
FXCM
International entities regulated by the FCA (UK), ASIC (Australia), FSCA (South Africa), and others. IMPORTANT: FXCM has been permanently banned from the US market since 2017 (see the risk note).