HFM (HotForex) vs Plus500: which broker is better in 2026?
We compare HFM (HotForex) and Plus500 — two forex & CFD brokers — side by side across regulation, fees, platforms, minimum deposit, and our editorial scores. Based on our overall editorial score, Plus500 edges ahead (3.8/5), but the right choice depends on what matters most to you — check the breakdown below.
Side-by-side comparison
CriteriaHFM (HotForex)Plus500
Overall score 3.5 3.8
Regulation & safety 3.0 4.0
Fees & deposit 3.5 3.5
Platform & assets 4.0 4.0
User support 3.5 3.5
Trust score68/10076/100
Minimum depositVaries by account type — check the official siteVaries by account type — check the official site
Demo accountAvailableAvailable
PlatformsMetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, HFM appProprietary web platform, iOS/Android mobile app
Fee modelVarious accounts (spread/zero); figures varySpread model (no separate commission) — exact spreads not yet verified in detail
Pros & cons
- Many account types & instruments; CySEC/FCA licenses for certain entities
- Global presence & promotions
- MT4/MT5
- Many retail clients via offshore entities (Seychelles/Mauritius)
- Relies on promotions; read the terms
- Leverage is high-risk
- Public company (LSE FTSE 250) with layered regulation (FCA UK, MAS Singapore)
- Simple, beginner-friendly proprietary platform, no separate commission (spread model)
- Broad instrument coverage: share/forex/commodity/index CFDs + futures & share dealing
- Historical note: £205,128 FCA fine (2012) for inaccurate transaction reporting + a past dispute with the Belgian regulator (FSMA)
- Own platform only — no MT4/MT5/cTrader for advanced traders
- Leveraged CFD model is high-risk (most retail accounts lose money — standard industry warning)
Regulation at a glance
HFM (HotForex)
HFM (formerly HotForex) — regulated by CySEC, FCA, FSCA, DFSA, FSA (Seychelles), FSC (Mauritius). Many clients via offshore entities.
Plus500
Listed on the London Stock Exchange (FTSE 250). The UK entity (Plus500UK Ltd) is supervised by the FCA; the Singapore entity (Plus500SG) holds a Capital Markets Services license from MAS. Check which entity serves your country — regulation differs per entity.