CMC Markets UK PLC Review 2024
Highlights of CMC Markets UK
CMC Markets is a reliable CFD and Forex broker with a long-standing presence in the market. It is regulated by leading financial authorities, ensuring a high level of client fund security.
CMC Markets stands out for its low trading fees, access to a wide range of markets and products, and user-friendly, flexible trading platforms. The broker provides extensive analytical materials and comprehensive educational resources, making it appealing to both novice and experienced traders.
Pros and Cons of CMC Markets UK
Pros
- Low trading fees.
- Wide range of markets and products.
- Access to the popular MetaTrader 4 and CMC Markets platforms.
- Extensive analytical materials.
- Comprehensive educational materials.
Cons
- Limited account options.
- Inactivity fee.
- No online chat.
CMC Markets UK Broker Overview
Foundation Year | 1988 |
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Official Website | https://www.cmcmarkets.com |
Regulated in Countries | United Kingdom, Germany, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, United Arab EmiratesMore Details |
Minimum Deposit |
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Spread | from 0.2 points |
Max Leverage | 1:30 |
Trading Assets |
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Trading Platforms |
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Email Support |
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Hotline Phones | |
Social Media |
The British broker CMC boasts a significant "life experience" – the company began its operations in the financial markets in 1989.
Dynamic development has allowed CMC to gather clients worldwide (over 250,000 in 100 countries). The company has its representations in ten countries, covering all continents except Africa and South America.
CMC Markets is among the most significant market makers in the Forex market and has been repeatedly recognized with awards at prestigious contests.
CMC Markets UK is in the top 10 of the following ratings:
CMC Markets UK Review Summary
- Regulation in multiple countries.
- Adherence to CASS rules to protect client funds.
- Compensation through FSCS in case of financial problems.
Our review evaluates the broker CMC Markets on several vital parameters, including regulation, trading conditions, available platforms, analytical tools, educational materials, and customer service quality. Our broker evaluation methodology is based on an objective and comprehensive analysis, which allows us to give you the most complete picture of the broker.
We hope our review will help you make an informed decision about choosing a broker. Continue reading to learn more about CMC Markets.
Reliability and Regulation
The following organizations regulate CMC Markets' operations:
Legal Entity | Regulator | Review |
---|---|---|
CMC Markets UK plc CMC Markets UK plc | FCA FCA | Current review |
CMC Markets Germany GmbH CMC Markets Germany GmbH | BaFin BaFin FMA FMA KNF KNF FSAN FSAN CNMV CNMV | CMC Markets EU review |
CMC Markets Canada Inc CMC Markets Canada Inc | CIRO CIRO | CMC Markets CA review |
CMC Markets Asia Pacific Pty Ltd CMC Markets Asia Pacific Pty Ltd | ASIC ASIC | CMC Markets AU review |
CMC Markets NZ Limited CMC Markets NZ Limited | NZ FMA NZ FMA | CMC Markets NZ review |
CMC Markets Singapore Pte Ltd CMC Markets Singapore Pte Ltd | MAS MAS | CMC Markets SG review |
CMC Markets Middle East Ltd CMC Markets Middle East Ltd | DFSA DFSA | CMC Markets review |
CMC Markets is regulated in many countries, including the UK, Germany, Australia, Canada, etc. This indicates that the company is subject to the laws of these countries and must adhere to strict standards concerning its clients.
The broker is obliged to follow the Client Assets (CASS) rules, which ensure the protection of client funds. This means that clients' funds are kept separate from the company's.
If the broker cannot fulfill its financial obligations, the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) protects clients' rights by providing compensation of up to £85,000.
Account Opening
The account opening process at CMC Markets involves registration, verification, and selecting account settings. Although the process can take 1-2 business days and requires providing quite extensive information, it remains standard compared to most brokers. The absence of minimum deposit requirements is a significant advantage.
Registration
To become a client of the broker and open a real or demo account, it is necessary to fill out a form on the company's website.
Enter your email, create a password, and choose a trading platform (CMC Markets or MetaTrader 4).
After entering your phone number and verifying your email, you can register a trading account at CMC Markets. The broker offers to select:
- Country of residence;
- Instruments for trading;
- Account type;
- Account currency (USD, EUR, or GBP).
By the way, CMC Markets immediately provides access to a demo account. All data is sent to the broker by email.
To continue registration, you need to enter the following information:
- Surname;
- First name;
- Phone number;
- Date of birth;
- Nationality;
- Passport number and its expiration date;
- Identification number;
- Residential address;
- Employment status;
- Source of income;
- Annual income;
- Value of assets;
- Trading information (duration of deals, risk level, and trading experience).
On the last registration page, you need to familiarize yourself with and agree to the rules of the trading platform and all the risks of trading futures.
Verification
To be able to deposit and withdraw funds and trade on a real account, you need to verify your account by confirming your identity and address by uploading the corresponding documents.
The broker reviews your application to open an account within 1-2 business days.
Minimum Deposit
One of the advantages of working with CMC Markets is the absence of minimum deposit requirements. This means you can start trading without depositing large sums of money into your account.
Account Types
CMC Markets offers two main types of accounts: a standard trading account and a CMC Pro. Both accounts provide access to a wide range of trading instruments. A demo account is also available for those who want to practice before trading on a real account.
However, despite these offerings, there is a lack of account options that could satisfy the needs of different types of traders. There are no cent accounts, accounts with fixed spreads, Islamic accounts, or investment accounts such as PAMM accounts or copy trading of successful traders.
Trading Accounts
The broker provides the following trading conditions:
Spread Betting | CFD | FX Active | |
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Account Currency | GBP, EUR | GBP, USD, EUR, AUD, CAD, NOK, NZD, PLN, SEK, SGD | |
Minimum Deposit | 1 £ | ||
Trading Platforms | MetaTrader 4CMC Markets | ||
Spread | floatingfrom 0.2 pipsfor EURUSD~ 0.7 pips | ||
Commission per Trade | |||
Trading Assets | ForexIndicesStocksBondsETFPrecious MetalsEnergy CarriersSoft Commodities | ||
Opened Positions | — | ||
Leverage | 1:1-1:30 | ||
Margin Call / Stop Out | 80% / 50% | ||
Order Execution | MM | ||
Demo Account | |||
Islamic Account | |||
Open AccountRegister | Open AccountRegister | Open AccountRegister |
Spread Betting. It is ideal for traders in the UK seeking to benefit from market movements without paying stamp duty or capital gains tax. Best suited for those interested in a tax-efficient trading option.
CFD. Suitable for experienced traders who want to trade a variety of instruments globally. Perfect for traders looking to hedge physical positions and willing to pay capital gains tax.
FX Active. Designed for active forex traders focusing on high-volume trading in the FX markets. It is ideal for those who need advanced tools and are comfortable with commissions on share trades.
CMC Pro
CMC Pro is a specialized account type designed for professional traders looking for a provider that recognizes their level of commitment to trading. This account is intended for those who are active in trading CFDs.
It should be noted that CMC Pro does not offer the same levels of protection as retail accounts, so traders should be aware of all associated risks. Nonetheless, CMC Pro offers a premium trading experience based on the company's 30 years of experience.
To be eligible for CMC Pro, traders must meet specific criteria. This includes active trading (at least 10 significant transactions per quarter over the last year), a financial instruments portfolio exceeding €500,000, and at least one year of experience in the financial sector.
Demo Account
The CMC Markets demo account offers a unique opportunity for traders to familiarize themselves with the platform and test various trading strategies without the risk of losing real funds. This account provides virtual funds of £10,000, allowing traders to gain realistic experience in trading CFDs on various markets, including indices, currency pairs, stocks, commodities, and treasuries.
The demo account at CMC Markets has no expiration date, so you can use it for as long as you need.
Order Execution
A dealing desk technology, which is 100% automated, is used. All operations proceed without any dealer intervention. It applies to all trading instruments – Forex, stocks, bonds, commodities. The trader can use the best offers for buying/selling an asset, selecting from 10 different offers on the price ladder.
CMC Alpha
CMC Alpha is a premium membership program offered by CMC Markets, designed to elevate the trading experience for its members. This program is tailored for traders who maintain an account value of £25,000 or more, unlocking exclusive benefits to enhance their trading journey.
As a member of CMC Alpha, traders can enjoy spread discounts ranging from 5% to 40%, allowing for significant savings on trade costs. Additionally, the program offers the opportunity to earn up to 3% interest on the available equity in the account. This feature rewards traders for their maintained balance and helps maximise their trading potential. Members are granted immediate access to CMC Price+ tier 3, which has advantages, including enhanced pricing.
One of the CMC Alpha program's standout features is the premium subscription to the Financial Times, providing traders with valuable insights and the latest financial news. This benefit complements the traders' strategies by informing them of global market trends and economic events. Furthermore, CMC Alpha members receive priority customer service, ensuring that their queries and needs are addressed promptly and efficiently.
To join this elite group, traders must apply for a standard spread betting or CFD account with CMC Markets. Upon funding the account with a minimum of £25,000, they automatically qualify for the "CMC Alpha" program. This membership automatically places them in tier 3 of the CMC Price+ membership at the start of each month, offering up to 20% off spreads. The more a member trades, the more trading points they earn, enabling them to ascend the spread discount tiers for even more significant benefits.
Commissions
CMC Markets does not charge fees for depositing or withdrawing funds. As for trading commissions, the broker only earns from spreads and swaps. However, there is an inactivity fee for dormant trading accounts.
Spreads and Swaps
The primary source of income for CMC Markets is spreads and swaps. The broker offers competitive spreads starting from 0.7 pips for major currency pairs such as EUR/USD and AUD/USD. Swaps also vary depending on the currency pair and the direction of the position (long or short).
Asset | Average spread | Swap long | Swap short |
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EURUSD | 0.7 pips | -6.92 pips | -0.93 pips |
AUDUSD | 0.7 pips | -7.00 pips | -0.08 pips |
GBPUSD | 0.9 pips | -3.66 pips | 2.55 pips |
USDJPY | 0.7 pips | 12.51 pips | 18.06 pips |
USDCAD | 1.3 pips | -1.93 pips | 4.19 pips |
USDCHF | 1.2 pips | 7.40 pips | 13.29 pips |
NZDUSD | 1.5 pips | -3.85 pips | 4.10 pips |
Inactivity Fee
It's important to note that CMC Markets charges an inactivity fee. This monthly charge of $10 (or the equivalent in another account currency) is levied on a client's trading account if there is no Forex market activity for 12 months. The fee is charged monthly until the client begins trading, closes the trading account, or the account balance runs out.
CMC Price Plus
CMC Price Plus is CMC Markets' tiered-volume discount scheme, rewarding traders with reduced spreads from 2% to 40%. Traders earn points for every trade on the spread betting and CFD trading platforms. These points accumulate monthly, determining the discount tier. The scheme features a carryover of discounts to the next month, encouraging sustained trading activity.
CMC Markets is FCA-regulated, FTSE-listed, and provides a secure trading environment. It has been recognized for its platform technology and spread betting services.
CMC Price Plus Tiers
Tier | Trading Points Required | Spread Discount |
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1 | 0 | Up to 0% |
2 | 100 | Up to 9.1% |
3 | 2,500 | Up to 20% |
4 | 5,000 | Up to 27.3% |
5 | 25,000 | Up to 40% |
Deposit and Withdrawal
At CMC Markets, we recognize the availability of various methods for depositing and withdrawing funds, the absence of broker commissions, and reasonable processing times for transactions.
Deposit Methods
The following options are available for account funding:
Payment System | Currencies | Deposit Fee | Operation Limit |
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Bank Transfer | USDEURGBP | from 100 GBP | |
Visa | USDEURGBP | from 10 to 50000 GBP | |
Mastercard | USDEURGBP | from 10 to 50000 GBP | |
Maestro | USDEURGBP | from 10 to 50000 GBP | |
Online banking | USDEURGBP | from 10 to 50000 GBP |
CMC Markets does not charge a deposit fee. However, there may be a fee from the payment system, which we have considered in the table above.
Withdrawal Methods
At CMC Markets, the following withdrawal methods are available:
Payment System | Currencies | Withdrawal Fee | Operation Limit |
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Bank Transfer | USDEURGBP | 0% | — |
Visa | USDEURGBP | 0% limitscommission limits | from 10 to 40000 GBPfrom 10 to 40000 USDfrom 10 to 40000 EUR |
Mastercard | USDEURGBP | 0% limitscommission limits | from 10 to 40000 GBPfrom 10 to 40000 USDfrom 10 to 40000 EUR |
Maestro | USDEURGBP | 0% | from 10 to 40000 GBPfrom 10 to 40000 USDfrom 10 to 40000 EUR |
The broker does not charge a fee for withdrawals. However, there may be a commission from the receiving bank.
The broker processes withdrawal requests within one business day. Withdrawals to credit cards and PayPal take 1-2 days, while bank transfers can take up to 5 days.
Markets and Products
CMC Markets offers various CFD trading instruments for different financial markets.
What markets are available?
Broker | Pepperstone UK | CMC Markets UK | FxPro UK |
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Forex | 97 | 336 | 69 |
Precious Metals | 20 | 19 | 13 |
Energy Carriers | 4 | 45 | 6 |
Soft Commodities | 16 | 58 | 7 |
Indices | 26 | 99 | 29 |
Stocks | 986 | 10099 | 1971 |
ETF | 108 | 1200 | — |
Bonds | — | 71 | — |
Margin Requirements
Margin requirements refer to the percentage of the total value of a trader's position in their account as collateral to open and maintain a position. At CMC Markets, margin requirements vary depending on the trading asset.
Trading Instrument | Max. Leverage for Retail Traders |
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Forex | 1:30 |
Precious Metals | 1:20 |
Energy Carriers | 1:10 |
Soft Commodities | 1:10 |
Indices | 1:20 |
Stocks | 1:5 |
ETF | 1:5 |
Bonds | 1:30 |
Trading Platforms
The broker offers two trading platforms: MetaTrader 4 and its proprietary CMC Markets platform. Both platforms are feature-rich and provide numerous tools for analysis and trading. However, some traders may find the CMC Markets platform complex for beginners.
MetaTrader 4
MetaTrader 4 (MT4) is one of the world's most popular trading platforms available to CMC Markets clients. MT4 is known for its reliability, powerful analytical tools, and flexibility.
The platform provides a wide range of features, including one-click trading, many technical indicators, charting tools, and the capability for automated trading using expert advisors.
MT4 also offers a comprehensive environment for developing and testing your own trading strategies and indicators with the integrated MQL4 programming language.
The platform is available in various formats, including desktop applications, a web version, and mobile apps for iOS and Android, allowing traders to monitor the market and trade anytime and anywhere.
CMC Markets
The CMC Markets platform boasts extensive capabilities and a high level of customization, for which international experts have repeatedly awarded it.
You can open tabs and windows, resize them, and customize the platform to your preferences.
Let's move on to the platform's capabilities.
The product library is conveniently categorized. Each list of CFD instruments can be filtered by popularity, country, category, subcategory, etc. This is useful for creating watchlists.
Watchlist – you can create as many based on your chosen criteria. Watchlists can be viewed as a classic table with charts or a quote panel.
You can create price alerts for any product.
You can choose a dark or light theme for the platform or change the menu layout.
The platform allows up to 4 charts to be displayed simultaneously. For analysis, there are many timeframes (1 second to 1 month) and chart types (Japanese candles, bars, Kagi, etc.).
The chart can be marked up with a multitude of tools. All lines, levels, angles, patterns, labels, etc., are available.
The broker is also generous with indicators. Some indicators overlay directly on the chart (moving averages and their derivatives) and classic oscillators.
The platform also offers analytical tools:
- News from Reuters;
- Economic calendar;
- Various insights;
- Chart forum;
- CMC TV;
- CMC Markets Blog;
- Pattern Scanner – a tool that automatically searches for and draws technical patterns on charts.
Everything needed for a successful CMC Markets trading platform – workspace customization, creating watchlists, charting with indicators, news on a neighboring tab, and analytical tools are available.
Analytics
CMC Markets offers a broad array of analytical tools and high-quality information provision.
Traders are provided with information in the following areas:
- Expert commentary on financial markets;
- Commentary and forecasts for currency pairs;
- Technical analysis;
- Fundamental analysis.
The markets researched include Europe, Asia, the USA, Canada, and the UK.
The "Analytics" (News & Analysis) section on the website contains updates from Reuters, a weekly economic calendar, charts, exchange rates for currency pairs, and schedules for trading on Forex and stock exchanges.
Information on all CMC Markets company analysts is also available.
Education
CMC Markets takes education seriously, and its training programs are among the best in the industry.
Forms of education include:
- Seminars,
- Webinars,
- Video conferences,
- Courses.
Leading company traders conduct classes and regularly feature world-renowned financial market experts.
On the broker's website, thematic sections and class schedules are published. Clients can choose the course and sign up through a feedback form. Most lectures and seminars are free for the company's clients.
Customer Support
CMC Markets has a solid technical support system in place. The company has opened 15 offices around the world. Local traders can seek help via local telephone numbers or through email.
CMC Markets' support operates 24/5 from Monday to Friday.
However, it should be noted that the broker's website lacks an online chat option, which could facilitate and expedite communication with support.
Below is the contact information for traders from the UK:
Phone: +44 (0)20 7170 8200
Conclusion
CMC Markets UK PLC has been a reliable CFD and Forex broker in the business for a long time. Top-tier financial authorities regulate the company, offers an excellent trading platform, and has low commission fees.
We believe it is an excellent choice for beginners and experienced traders. CMC Markets is a good option if you are looking for a trustworthy and reputable broker with extensive experience.
FAQ
Is CMC Markets UK legit?
Yes, CMC Markets UK is a legitimate broker. It is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
Which country is CMC Markets UK from?
CMC Markets is headquartered in the United Kingdom, specifically in London.
Is CMC Markets UK an ECN broker?
No, CMC Markets UK is not an ECN broker. It operates as a market maker, providing liquidity and facilitating trades directly.
How does CMC Markets UK make money?
CMC Markets UK makes money primarily through the spreads on trades, which is the difference between the buy and sell prices. Additionally, it earns from commissions on certain types of trades, overnight holding costs, and other fees related to premium services.
Is CMC Markets UK good for beginners?
Yes, CMC Markets UK is suitable for beginners. It offers a range of educational resources, including webinars, tutorials, and detailed market analysis, which help new traders learn and develop their trading skills.
Does CMC Markets UK offer a demo account?
Yes, CMC Markets UK provides a demo account. This allows traders to practice and familiarize themselves with the trading platform and markets without risking real money.
How can I open an account with CMC Markets UK?
To open an account with CMC Markets UK, visit their official website, click on the "Open an Account" button, and follow the registration process, which includes providing personal information, financial details, and verifying your identity.
How can I delete my CMC Markets UK account?
To delete your CMC Markets UK account, you need to contact their customer support team. They will guide you through the process and help close your account.
What is the minimum deposit for CMC Markets UK?
CMC Markets UK does not have a minimum deposit requirement, making it accessible for traders with various levels of capital.
What is the maximum leverage on CMC Markets UK?
The maximum leverage offered by CMC Markets UK varies depending on the asset class, but typically, it can go up to 1:30 for retail traders.
How do I deposit funds in a CMC Markets UK account?
You can deposit funds into your CMC Markets UK account via various methods, including bank transfers, credit cards, and online banking. Log in to your account, go to the "Funding" section, and follow the instructions for your chosen deposit method.
How do I withdraw money from CMC Markets UK?
To withdraw money from CMC Markets UK, log in to your account, go to the "Funding" section, select "Withdraw," and follow the instructions. Withdrawals can be made via bank transfers and credit cards.
Does CMC Markets UK provide VPS?
No, CMC Markets UK does not provide VPS (Virtual Private Server) services. However, traders can use third-party VPS providers if needed.
Is CMC Markets UK suitable for scalping?
Yes, CMC Markets UK is suitable for scalping. The broker allows scalping strategies and provides the necessary tools and platform features to support this trading style.
Is CMC Markets UK suitable for auto-trading?
Yes, CMC Markets UK is suitable for auto-trading. It supports various auto-trading tools and platforms, including MetaTrader 4, which allows traders to use Expert Advisors (EAs) for automated trading.
Is CMC Markets UK suitable for hedging?
Yes, CMC Markets UK allows hedging. Traders can open multiple positions in the same or correlated markets to manage risk effectively.
Is CMC Markets UK suitable for spread betting?
Yes, CMC Markets UK is suitable for spread betting. It offers spread betting accounts for UK traders, allowing them to speculate on price movements without owning the underlying assets.