Best CFD Brokers and Trading Platforms in New Zealand 2026
We rigorously test brokers on real accounts and evaluate them using our methodology. Here are the best CFD brokers in New Zealand based on our analysis:
- 1
XM - Best CFD trading platform in New Zealand - Wide range of trading assets. Extensive educational resources. Tight spreads on the Ultra Low account. - 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
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. - 4
easyMarkets - Regulated in many jurisdictions. Unique risk management tools (dealCancellation, Freeze Rate). Access to various trading platforms. - 5
CMC Markets NZ - Low trading fees. Wide range of markets and products. Access to the popular MetaTrader 4 and CMC Markets platforms. - 6
Roboforex - A variety of trading platforms. Over 12,000 trading assets. Different types of trading accounts. - 7
FxPro - Various trading platforms. A diverse range of available markets and products. Multiple analytics tools. - 8
Ultima Markets - Low trading commissions. Coverage of all major trading asset markets. Extensive analytical materials and tools. - 9
- 10
ActivTrades - Wide range of trading assets. A wide variety of trading platforms. Extensive training materials including webinars, videos, articles and guides.
The brokers we have chosen stand out for their sophisticated trading platforms, competitive pricing, and strong regulation, making them some of the best CFD trading brokers for residents of New Zealand.
Comparison of the Best CFD Brokers in New Zealand
| Broker | XM | FP Markets | Eightcap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Foundation Year | 2009 | 2005 | 2015 |
| Regulated in Countries | Belize, Cyprus, Australia, South Africa, United Arab Emirates, Mauritius, Seychelles | Australia, Cyprus, South Africa, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Seychelles | Australia, United Kingdom, Cyprus, Bahamas |
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| Trading Accounts |
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| Spread | from 0 points | from 0 points | from 0 points |
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| Review | XM Review | FP Markets Review | Eightcap Review |
| Broker Comparison | |||
| Register | RegisterTrading CFDs carries high risks. You may lose all invested funds | RegisterTrading CFDs carries high risks. You may lose all invested funds | RegisterTrading CFDs carries high risks. You may lose all invested funds |
Best CFD Trading Platforms in New Zealand 2026
1. 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
- Inactivity fee.
- Standard account has a higher spread than the market average.
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. 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).
4. easyMarkets
easyMarkets is a reliable international broker with nearly 25 years of experience, licenses from leading regulators (CySEC, ASIC, FSCA, etc.), and a focus on simplicity and trading safety. It suits beginner traders thanks to a low minimum deposit from 25 USD, fixed spreads, and a convenient proprietary platform with unique risk management tools. At the same time, the broker will also appeal to more experienced users thanks to the availability of MT4, MT5, TradingView, Islamic accounts, and VIP service. Despite a relatively average selection of CFD instruments and the absence of passive trading services, easyMarkets delivers a good combination of reliability, technology, and customer support.
Pros and Cons of easyMarkets
Pros
- Regulated in many jurisdictions.
- Unique risk management tools (dealCancellation, Freeze Rate).
- Access to various trading platforms.
- Minimum deposit from 25 USD, convenient for beginners.
- A wide range of deposit and withdrawal methods, including cryptocurrencies.
- Strong analytics (Daily Pitch, AI reviews, trading signals).
- Competent support with many contact channels.
Cons
- High swaps compared to competitors.
- No cent accounts or passive trading services (PAMM, copy trading).
- Average number of CFD instruments, behind market leaders.
5. CMC Markets NZ
CMC Markets NZ 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 seek a trustworthy and reputable broker with extensive experience.
Pros and Cons of CMC Markets NZ
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.
6. Roboforex
RoboForex is recognized as one of the few Forex brokers with an impeccable reputation. The company strictly adheres to its regulations, does not delay payments, and provides fair quotes. RoboForex can be a good choice for both novice and professional traders due to its robust offerings, which include a variety of trading instruments, account types, platforms, and competitive trading conditions. The broker's commitment to transparency and customer service further solidifies its standing in the Forex community.
Pros and Cons of Roboforex
Pros
- A variety of trading platforms.
- Over 12,000 trading assets.
- Different types of trading accounts.
- Competent 24/7 customer support.
- Loyalty programs and bonus offers for clients.
- Low spreads and fees.
Cons
- Regulation in an offshore jurisdiction.
- Beginner traders may find a lack of educational materials.
7. 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.
8. Ultima Markets
Ultima Markets is a broker offering a wide range of trading instruments and platforms, making it attractive to various categories of traders. With low trading commissions, user-friendly platforms, and extensive analytical materials, the broker is suitable for experienced traders and those who use automated strategies. However, due to the lack of educational materials, Ultima Markets is less suitable for beginner traders, but it is an excellent choice for anyone who does not require training.
Pros and Cons of Ultima Markets
Pros
- Low trading commissions.
- Coverage of all major trading asset markets.
- Extensive analytical materials and tools.
- Efficient technical support.
Cons
- Lack of educational materials.
- No phone support.
9. 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.
10. 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.
What Is CFD?
Contracts for Difference (CFDs) are financial derivatives that allow traders to speculate on the price movements of various underlying assets without owning those assets directly. With a CFD, you trade on the difference between the opening and closing price of the position. CFDs are available on a wide range of instruments, including forex, stocks, commodities, indices, and cryptocurrencies.
How CFDs Differ from Other Financial Instruments
Unlike traditional investing, where you buy and own the underlying asset, CFD trading involves entering into a contract with a broker to exchange the difference in price from when the position is opened to when it is closed. This structure allows traders to profit from both rising and falling markets by going long (buy) or short (sell).
Most CFD trading platforms and brokers also offer leverage, which lets you control a larger position with a smaller initial deposit (margin). While this can magnify profits, it also increases the risk of losses, sometimes beyond your initial deposit if there is no negative balance protection.
Pros and Cons of CFD Trading
Advantages
- Leverage: Enables traders to control larger positions with a relatively small initial outlay.
- Flexibility: Ability to profit from both rising and falling markets via long and short positions.
- Diverse Markets: Access to many instruments from a single CFD provider, including global shares, indices, forex pairs, and more.
- Low Entry Barriers: Many brokers for CFD trading offer low minimum deposits and small trade sizes, making it easier to start.
Disadvantages
- High Risk: Leverage amplifies both profits and losses. Poor risk management can lead to rapid losses.
- Complexity: CFDs are more complex than traditional share dealing and require a solid understanding of markets and margin.
- Costs: Spreads, commissions, and overnight financing fees can add up, especially for long-term positions.
- Regulatory Risks: Rules differ between jurisdictions. Protection levels vary depending on where your CFD trading broker is regulated.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a CFD Broker in New Zealand
Regulation and Security
In New Zealand, anyone offering derivatives such as CFDs to retail investors must normally hold a derivatives issuer licence from the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) and comply with disclosure and client-money rules.
When selecting a CFD broker, prioritise firms that are authorised either directly by the FMA or by other top-tier regulators such as the FCA (UK), ASIC (Australia) or CySEC (EU). Strong regulation helps ensure that the broker follows strict capital and conduct standards, and that client funds are held in segregated accounts.
Trading Fees and Costs
Compare spreads, commissions, and overnight financing rates across different CFD trading brokers. Even small differences in fees can have a big impact on active traders who open and close positions frequently. Also check for non-trading fees such as withdrawal charges or inactivity fees.
Trading Platforms and Tools
The best CFD trading platforms combine reliability with intuitive design and strong charting. Look for features such as:
- fast order execution and stable performance
- advanced charting, indicators, and drawing tools
- order types such as stop, limit, and trailing stop
- mobile apps for monitoring positions on the go
If you prefer specific platforms such as MT4, MT5, or cTrader, make sure your chosen broker for CFD trading supports them.
Range of Tradable Assets
Choose a broker whose CFD offering matches your strategy:
- forex pairs (majors, minors, exotics)
- stock CFDs from key markets
- indices like the NZX 50, S&P 500, FTSE 100, etc.
- commodities (gold, oil, agricultural products)
- cryptocurrency CFDs (available with some providers, but usually considered high risk by regulators)
Account Types and Leverage
Many CFD providers offer different account types with varying spreads, commissions, and leverage. In New Zealand there has historically been no formal leverage cap for licensed derivatives issuers, although the FMA is consulting on introducing limits similar to other major markets, particularly for highly leveraged products such as CFDs.
Make sure you understand the margin requirements and how leverage affects your risk. Conservative leverage and strict risk management are essential for long-term survival.
Customer Service
Reliable customer support can be crucial when platform or account issues arise. Look for CFD trading brokers offering 24/5 or 24/7 support via live chat, email, and phone, plus clear escalation channels for complaints.
Education and Research
If you are new to CFDs, educational content is particularly important. Quality brokers for CFD trading provide webinars, video tutorials, platform guides, and regular market analysis. Demo accounts are also an excellent way to test a CFD trading platform before risking real money.
How Was the List of the Best CFD Brokers in New Zealand Compiled?
To create our ranking of the best CFD brokers and platforms for New Zealand traders, we follow a structured, data-driven process:
- Starting universe. We begin with our broader list of Forex brokers and filter it to include only firms that accept clients from New Zealand and have strong regulatory oversight.
- Real-account testing. Our team opens live accounts where possible to evaluate spreads, execution quality, platform stability, and customer service.
- Safety and transparency. We favour CFD providers that are licensed by the FMA or other top-tier regulators and that demonstrate robust client-fund protection, clear fee disclosure, and strong governance.
- CFD-specific features. We assess each broker’s CFD range (markets, contract sizes, leverage options) and the quality of its CFD trading platform, including tools for risk management and analysis.
- Local suitability. Only brokers offering conditions that are accessible to New Zealand residents - such as NZD accounts, convenient funding methods, and appropriate risk warnings - are included in our final list.
By applying this methodology, we aim to present New Zealand traders with a curated selection of best CFD brokers that combine strong safety standards, competitive costs, and high-quality trading technology.
FAQ
Which is the best CFD trading platform in New Zealand?
There is no single “best CFD trading platform” for every trader. The ideal choice depends on your experience level, preferred markets, and budget. Well-known CFD providers that are popular with Kiwi traders often combine strong regulation, competitive spreads, and user-friendly platforms. Compare features such as regulation, costs, available instruments, and platform tools before deciding.
Is CFD trading legal in New Zealand?
Yes. CFDs are legal in New Zealand and are treated as derivatives. Firms that want to offer CFDs to retail clients in New Zealand generally need a derivatives issuer licence from the FMA and must comply with disclosure, client-fund, and conduct rules. However, CFDs are considered high-risk products, and regulators regularly remind investors that they can lose money quickly when trading with leverage.
How do I choose a broker for CFD trading in New Zealand?
Start by checking that the broker is properly regulated - ideally licensed by the FMA or another respected authority such as the FCA, ASIC, or CySEC. Then compare spreads, commissions, and overnight funding costs. Test the CFD trading platform via a demo account, review the range of markets, and ensure you’re comfortable with the leverage levels on offer. Finally, consider the quality of customer service and the clarity of risk disclosures.
Which broker is best for CFD trading as a beginner?
For beginners, the best CFD brokers are those that combine strong regulation, simple platforms, and extensive educational resources. Look for brokers that offer low minimum deposits, risk-management tools (such as guaranteed stop-loss orders), and high-quality tutorials or webinars. Starting with a demo account is essential so you can practise on the platform before trading real money.
Who is the world’s No. 1 CFD provider?
There is no universally agreed “No. 1 CFD provider” because rankings depend on the criteria used—such as trading volume, number of clients, or range of products. Several large global CFD brokers serve clients in many countries, including New Zealand, but the best CFD provider for you will depend on your needs, risk tolerance, and the regulations under which the broker operates.
What is a CFD trading platform?
A CFD trading platform is the software you use to place, manage, and close CFD trades with your broker. It displays real-time prices, charts, indicators, and order-entry tickets. Examples include proprietary web-based platforms, MetaTrader 4/5, and cTrader. The best CFD trading platforms also offer risk-management tools, news feeds, and mobile apps so you can monitor positions wherever you are.
How can I earn $1,000 a day in trading with CFDs?
Regularly earning $1,000 a day from CFD trading is extremely difficult and involves substantial risk. CFDs are leveraged products, so both profits and losses are magnified. Most retail traders do not achieve such consistent results, and many lose money. Instead of focusing on a specific daily profit target, concentrate on education, developing a robust trading plan, managing risk per trade, and only trading money you can afford to lose.
Are demo accounts available for practising CFD trading?
Yes. Most reputable CFD brokers in New Zealand offer free demo accounts funded with virtual money. These accounts let you test a CFD trading platform, practise executing trades, and experiment with strategies without risking real capital. It’s wise to use a demo account until you’re comfortable with how CFDs, leverage, and margin work.
Do Forex brokers in New Zealand also offer CFD trading?
Yes. Most regulated brokers that provide access to the FX market in New Zealand also offer CFDs on indices, commodities, shares, and crypto. If you are primarily looking for Forex-focused platforms, check our detailed comparison of the Forex brokers NZ to see which providers combine strong FX conditions with well-built CFD offerings.
