Best CFD Brokers and Trading Platforms in Ireland 2025
We rigorously test brokers on real accounts and evaluate them using our methodology. Here are the top CFD brokers in Ireland based on our analysis:
- 1
AvaTrade - Best CFD trading platform in Ireland - A wide selection of financial assets. Innovative trading platforms. Highly rated educational resources. - 2
FP Markets - Robust regulation, serious fund protection plus segregated accounts in AA banks. Competitive trading conditions: spreads from 0 pip, commission 6 USD/lot; execution ≈ 20 ms on the NY4 server. Rich selection of trading platforms. - 3
Libertex Europe - Tight spreads and attractive trading conditions. Wide range of underlying assets. A rich set of educational resources and market analysis. - 4
Eightcap - Support for popular platforms MT4, MT5, and integration with TradingView. Over 800 trading instruments, including 160+ cryptocurrency CFDs. Regulated by ASIC, FCA, CySEC, and SCB. - 5
FxPro - Various trading platforms. A diverse range of available markets and products. Multiple analytics tools. - 6
- 7
ActivTrades - Wide range of trading assets. A wide variety of trading platforms. Extensive training materials including webinars, videos, articles and guides. - 8
HF Markets - Regulated by reputable financial authorities. Wide selection of trading assets. A variety of educational materials and analytical reviews. - 9
XM - Wide range of trading assets. Extensive educational resources. Tight spreads on the Ultra Low account. - 10
XTB - Regulated by several leading financial authorities. Variety of methods to deposit funds. Wide range of trading assets.
The brokers we have selected combine strong regulation, competitive pricing, and reliable execution, making them some of the top choices for Irish residents who want to trade CFDs with confidence.
Comparison of the Best CFD Brokers in Ireland
| Broker |  AvaTrade |  FP Markets |  Libertex Europe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.6/5 |
| Foundation Year | 2005 | 2005 | 2012 |
| Regulated in Countries | Ireland, British Virgin Islands, Australia, South Africa, Japan, United Arab Emirates, Israel, Canada | Australia, Cyprus, South Africa, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Seychelles | Cyprus |
| Regulators | Central Bank of Ireland Central Bank of Ireland KNF KNF FCA FCA BVIFSC BVIFSC ASIC ASIC FSCA FSCA JFSA JFSA JFFA JFFA FSRA FSRA ISA ISA CIRO CIRO | ASIC ASIC CySEC CySEC FSCA FSCA SVGFSA SVGFSA SFSA SFSA | CySEC CySEC |
| Minimum Deposit |
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| Trading Accounts |
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| Spread | from 0.6 points | from 0 points | from 0.1 points |
| Trading Assets (CFDs) |
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| Trading Platforms |
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| Review | AvaTrade Review | FP Markets Review | Libertex Europe Review |
| Broker Comparison | |||
| RegisterTrading CFDs carries high risks. You may lose all invested funds | RegisterTrading CFDs carries high risks. You may lose all invested funds | Register79% of retail investors lose money when trading CFDs with this broker |
Best CFD Trading Platforms in Ireland 2025
1. AvaTrade
AvaTrade is ideal for traders looking for various trading tools and a high level of investment protection. Beginners will be comfortable with the intuitive interface of the AvaTradeGO mobile platform, while experienced traders will appreciate the depth of MetaTrader's customization and analytical tools. However, traders who need access to STP or ECN accounts should pay attention to other brokerage companies.
Pros and Cons of AvaTrade
Pros
- A wide selection of financial assets.
- Innovative trading platforms.
- Highly rated educational resources.
Cons
- Limited trading account options.
- Account inactivity fee.
2. FP Markets
FP Markets successfully combines a strict licensing framework, a fast ECN order book with zero spreads, a rich selection of platforms — ranging from classic MT4/5 to TradingView and Iress DMA — and a developed analytics, education, and 24/7 support infrastructure. This combination makes the broker attractive for active scalpers and algorithmic traders who value speed and moderate commission per lot, as well as for investors preferring copy trading, PAMM/MAM, or DMA stocks via Iress. Beginners will benefit from a low entry of 100 AUD, online courses, and no inactivity fees.
Pros and Cons of FP Markets
Pros
- Robust regulation, serious fund protection plus segregated accounts in AA banks.
- Competitive trading conditions: spreads from 0 pip, commission 6 USD/lot; execution ≈ 20 ms on the NY4 server.
- Rich selection of trading platforms.
- Wide range of instruments.
- Numerous deposit/withdrawal methods.
- Strong analytics and education.
- 24/7 support.
Cons
- Lack of cent accounts and fixed spread accounts.
- Some analytical materials and software are accessible only with a deposit or trading volume.
3. Libertex
Libertex is an established broker (CySEC regulated) with a wide range of underlying assets and a solid range of educational materials. The platforms—the in-house Libertex and MT4/MT5—cover standalone trading, while Libertex Invest allows commission-free investing in stocks for long-term strategies.
Clients choose between the Libertex Account, MT4/MT5 Market accounts for active traders, and Libertex Invest for stocks. Pricing is competitive with 0% deposit fees and convenient deposit/withdrawal options. Restrictions: no fixed spread or Islamic accounts.
Pros and Cons of Libertex Europe
Pros
- Tight spreads and attractive trading conditions.
- Wide range of underlying assets.
- A rich set of educational resources and market analysis.
- Strong platform lineup: proprietary Libertex and professional MT4/MT5.
- Commission-free investing in stocks is possible through Libertex Invest (market spreads apply).
- Instant, fee-free deposits and a wide choice of funding and withdrawal methods.
Cons
- An inactivity fee applies to clients with a total account balance less than 5000 euros (4500 GBP, 5300 CHF, 22500 PLN respectively).
- No fixed-spread accounts and no Islamic accounts.
4. Eightcap
Eightcap is a modern broker with reliable regulation, convenient MT4, MT5, and TradingView platforms, and a wide selection of instruments, including over 160 cryptocurrency CFDs. It suits traders who value technology, fast market access, and competitive trading conditions. The broker will be especially interesting for active traders and those who use CFD instruments, but is less convenient for investors seeking passive trading solutions.
Pros and Cons of Eightcap
Pros
- Support for popular platforms MT4, MT5, and integration with TradingView.
- Over 800 trading instruments, including 160+ cryptocurrency CFDs.
- Regulated by ASIC, FCA, CySEC, and SCB.
- Convenient deposit and withdrawal methods with no fees.
- Modern analytics tools: AI economic calendar and FlashTrader for MT5.
Cons
- No cent or Islamic accounts.
- No passive trading solutions (copy trading, PAMM).
5. FxPro
FxPro provides a comprehensive range of services and tools for traders. With its variety of trading accounts, platforms, and available markets, it is well-suited to meet the needs of different traders. This broker suits traders looking for a wide selection of markets, diverse platforms, and analytical tools. It is also apt for beginner traders, thanks to the educational materials and experienced traders who value flexible trading conditions.
Pros and Cons of FxPro
Pros
- Various trading platforms.
- A diverse range of available markets and products.
- Multiple analytics tools.
- Extensive educational materials.
Cons
- An inactivity fee.
- Absence of cent accounts and services for copying trades.
6. Plus500
Plus500 is ideal for traders seeking a convenient and intuitive platform with a broad spectrum of trading instruments. It's particularly well-suited for those who value a diverse range of CFDs on stocks, indices, currencies, commodities, and ETFs. The built-in Insight+ analytics tool is a significant advantage for those keen on analyzing trends and activities based on real-time data.
Pros and Cons of Plus500
Pros
- Diversity of trading assets.
- Intuitive trading platform.
- 24/7 support.
- Built-in analytics.
Cons
- Limited channels for communication with technical support.
- Limited choice of trading accounts.
7. ActivTrades
ActivTrades is suitable for beginner traders who value simplicity and intuitive trading platforms, as well as a variety of educational materials to improve their skills. Moreover, this broker can be a suitable option for experienced traders who prefer to trade various instruments and use the powerful features of the MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5 and TradingView platforms.
However, for traders with more specific requirements, such as a variety of trading accounts or individual conditions for professional traders, ActivTrades may be less attractive.
Pros and Cons of ActivTrades
Pros
- Wide range of trading assets.
- A wide variety of trading platforms.
- Extensive training materials including webinars, videos, articles and guides.
- Professional Support Team.
Cons
- Lack of diversity in trading accounts.
8. HF Markets
HF Markets is a reliable and appealing Forex broker, offering a wide selection of trading assets, a variety of account types, and access to the popular trading platforms MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5. With its regulation and industry experience, the company has earned a reputation as a dependable partner for traders of varying experience levels.
HF Markets is recommended for those seeking a trustworthy and vetted broker with favorable trading conditions and customer support.
Pros and Cons of HF Markets
Pros
- Regulated by reputable financial authorities.
- Wide selection of trading assets.
- A variety of educational materials and analytical reviews.
Cons
- There is no alternative to MetaTrader.
- High swaps and wide spreads.
9. XM
XM broker offers a wide range of services, making it an attractive option for various traders. With over 1500 trading instruments, extensive educational resources, and numerous trading platforms, XM is ideally suited for beginners and experienced traders. Novice traders will particularly appreciate the accessible educational materials and low entry threshold, while professionals will find the competitive spreads and diversity of instruments appealing.
Pros and Cons of XM
Pros
- Wide range of trading assets.
- Extensive educational resources.
- Tight spreads on the Ultra Low account.
- Many analytical materials.
- Commission-free deposits and withdrawals.
Cons
- Inconsistency in technical support.
- Inactivity fee.
- Standard account has a higher spread than the market average.
10. XTB
XTB is a highly regulated broker with licenses from leading bodies such as the FCA, reinforcing its reliability and transparency. This broker offers a wide range of trading products, including currencies, indices, commodities, stocks, and cryptocurrencies, making it a flexible choice for traders of different levels and interests. Various deposit options and advanced analytical support further enhance its appeal against competitors.
XTB suits traders who value regulation and security, those looking for various trading tools, and those who want access to extensive analytical resources. The broker will especially suit active traders who maximize low spreads and product diversity.
Pros and Cons of XTB
Pros
- Regulated by several leading financial authorities.
- Variety of methods to deposit funds.
- Wide range of trading assets.
- Extensive analytical tools and resources.
Cons
- Withdrawal methods are limited.
- Lack of educational materials.
What is CFD trading?
Contracts for Difference (CFDs) are financial derivatives that allow traders to speculate on the price movements of underlying assets without owning them directly. CFDs are available on many markets, including shares, forex, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies.
With a CFD, you agree with a broker to exchange the difference between the opening and closing price of an asset. If the market moves in your favour, you make a profit; if it moves against you, you incur a loss. Because CFDs are traded on margin, both profits and losses can be amplified.
How CFDs differ from other financial instruments
When you buy traditional shares or ETFs, you own the underlying asset and can benefit from shareholder rights such as dividends and voting (where applicable). With CFDs, you never own the asset itself – you simply trade on its price movements over time.
Compared with spot trading, CFDs:
- Use leverage, so you only need to deposit a fraction of the trade’s full value as margin.
- Make it easy to go short (profit from falling prices) as well as long.
- Often give access to a wider range of markets from a single CFD provider platform.
However, leverage and financing costs mean CFDs are usually better suited to short- or medium-term trading rather than long-term investing.
Pros and cons of CFD trading
Advantages
- Leverage – You can control larger positions with a smaller initial outlay, which can increase potential returns on winning trades.
- Flexibility – CFDs allow you to take both long and short positions, so you can potentially profit in rising or falling markets.
- Market access – Many CFD brokers provide access to global shares, indices, forex, commodities, crypto and more from a single account.
- No stamp duty on share CFDs – In some jurisdictions, you may avoid certain transaction taxes that apply to direct share purchases (always check current Irish tax rules with a professional adviser).
Disadvantages
- High risk – Leverage magnifies losses as well as profits. Retail statistics from European regulators show that most CFD clients lose money over time.
- Financing costs – Overnight funding and other charges can add up if you hold positions for longer periods.
- Complexity – Understanding how margin, leverage and different asset classes work can be challenging for beginners.
- Counterparty risk – You trade directly with the CFD broker rather than on a central exchange, so it’s vital to choose a well-regulated provider.
Key factors to consider when choosing a CFD broker in Ireland
Picking the right broker is essential for long-term success. When comparing the best CFD brokers and trading platforms, pay attention to the following points:
Regulation and security
Prefer brokers authorised by top-tier regulators, such as the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) for Irish-domiciled firms, or other respected authorities like the FCA or CySEC for cross-border services. Strong regulation means stricter capital and conduct rules, along with requirements to keep client money in segregated accounts.
Trading fees and overall costs
Look at typical spreads, any commissions, overnight financing fees, and currency conversion charges. For active traders, small differences in pricing between CFD providers can make a big impact over time.
Trading platforms and tools
Evaluate whether the platform is stable, intuitive and fast. Many top CFD brokers support MetaTrader, cTrader or proprietary web and mobile platforms with advanced charting, risk-management tools and algorithmic trading support.
Range of markets
A broader product offering lets you diversify across indices, individual shares, forex pairs, commodities, ETFs, cryptocurrencies and more – all from a single CFD account.
Order execution and slippage
Good execution quality helps ensure your trades are filled close to the quoted price, especially during volatile market conditions or major news events.
Customer support and education
For Irish traders, responsive support during local trading hours and high-quality educational content – webinars, tutorials, strategy articles – can make starting with CFDs much easier.
How was our CFD brokers list for Ireland compiled?
To build this CFD brokers list for Irish traders, we followed a consistent, data-driven methodology:
- We started from our global list of Forex brokers, focusing on firms that accept clients from Ireland and provide euro accounts or convenient funding options for Irish residents.
- Each broker was tested on real or live-like accounts and assessed across dozens of factors: regulation, safety of funds, spreads and commissions, platform quality, order execution, available markets, education, and customer service.
- We prioritised CFD providers with strong oversight from reputable regulators, transparent risk warnings, and clear disclosures about pricing and fees.
- Finally, we compared how well each broker’s overall offer suits different types of Irish traders – from beginners who need education and simple platforms to more advanced users who value tight spreads, depth of markets and powerful tools.
The result is a balanced selection of brokers that combine safety, competitive costs and reliable platforms, helping you choose the best CFD trading solution for your needs.
FAQ
What is the best CFD trading platform in Ireland?
There is no single platform that is objectively best for every Irish trader. The right choice depends on your experience, preferred markets and trading style. When evaluating the best CFD trading platforms in Ireland, compare regulation, spreads, available instruments, platform usability, and whether the broker offers negative balance protection and clear risk warnings. Our ranking on this page highlights several top CFD brokers that score well across these areas.
Who is the world’s No. 1 CFD provider?
There is no universally agreed “No. 1” CFD provider worldwide, because different brokers lead in different regions and by different measures such as client numbers, trading volume, or product range. Large international firms like Plus500 and CMC Markets are among the most recognisable CFD providers globally, but the best choice for you will depend on regulation, costs and platform features rather than marketing claims.
Which CFD account is best for beginners?
For beginners, the best CFD account is usually a simple, low-cost retail account with:
- Clear, transparent pricing and no hidden fees
- Low minimum deposit and small trade sizes
- Negative balance protection
- A user-friendly platform and good educational resources
- A free demo account to practice before risking real money
Avoid complex professional accounts with very high leverage until you have solid experience and a proven risk-management plan.
Is CFD trading allowed in Ireland?
Yes. CFD trading is allowed in Ireland, but it is classified as a complex, high-risk investment product. Brokers serving Irish clients must be authorised by the Central Bank of Ireland or another recognised EEA or UK regulator and must follow strict rules on leverage limits, risk warnings and client-money protection. Always check a broker’s regulatory status before opening an account.
How do CFD providers make money?
Most CFD providers earn revenue primarily from the spread – the small difference between the buy and sell price of each instrument. Many also charge overnight financing (swap) fees for positions held past the market close, and some add commissions on certain asset classes such as share CFDs. In addition, currency conversion charges can apply when you trade instruments denominated in a different currency from your account.
Can I make €1,000 per day from CFD trading?
It is theoretically possible to make significant profits in a short time with leveraged CFD trading, but aiming for a fixed income such as €1,000 per day is extremely risky and unrealistic for most retail traders. Markets are volatile and losses can be large and sudden, especially when using high leverage. Treat CFDs as speculative trading instruments, never as a guaranteed income source, and only risk money you can afford to lose.
Where can I find a reliable CFD brokers list for Irish traders?
This page is designed to serve exactly that purpose. Our team has created an independent CFD brokers list focused on platforms that accept Irish clients and offer competitive conditions. Use the comparison tables at the top of the article to quickly review regulation, fees, platforms and key features before choosing the broker that suits you best.
How should Irish traders decide between Forex and CFD trading?
Forex trading focuses on currency pairs, while CFDs allow you to speculate on a wider range of markets such as indices, stocks, and commodities without owning the underlying asset. Many traders in Ireland start with spot FX to learn how the markets work and later add CFDs for diversification and flexible strategies. If your main interest is currency trading, take a look at our comparison of the best Forex brokers in Ireland to find regulated brokers with suitable spreads, platforms, and account types.
