CMC Markets vs Skilling: which broker is better in 2026?
We compare CMC Markets and Skilling — 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
CriteriaCMC MarketsSkilling
Overall score 4.0 3.6
Regulation & safety 4.0 3.5
Fees & deposit 3.5 3.5
Platform & assets 4.5 4.0
User support 4.0 3.5
Trust score80/10072/100
Minimum depositVaries by account type — check the official siteVaries by account type — check the official site
Demo accountAvailableAvailable
PlatformsProprietary web platform (Next Generation), MetaTrader 4, TradingView (integrated), Mobile appSkilling Trader, cTrader, MetaTrader 4
Fee modelSpread & commission model varies per product — details not yet verifiedStandard/Premium; competitive
Pros & cons
- 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
- A clean in-house platform + cTrader/MT4; CySEC regulation
- Beginner-friendly with a modern UX
- Competitive spreads (Premium account)
- A relatively new & small broker
- Seychelles entity for non-EU clients
- Leverage is high-risk
Regulation at a glance
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).
Skilling
Scandinavian (2016) — regulated by CySEC (Cyprus), FSA (Seychelles). Own platform + cTrader + MT4.