Focus Markets vs FXCM Comparison
Compare trading conditions, commissions and platforms of Forex brokers Focus Markets and FXCM. Find out which broker is best for you.
We test brokers on real accounts using our own methodology, evaluating the quality of order execution, trading conditions, platforms and customer support.
Who is better - Focus Markets or FXCM?
Our pick: FXCM
Based on multiple factors - spreads and fees, available assets and instruments, execution quality, platform usability, support level, and educational resources - FXCM looks preferable to Focus Markets.
FXCM scored 4.3/5 and ranks 31 in our all Forex brokers list, whereas Focus Markets has 3.8/5 and ranks 60.
This is not financial advice. See the full comparison below.
Who is Focus Markets suitable for?
Focus Markets is suitable for experienced Forex/CFD traders who trade via MT5 and independently use external analytics.
Who is FXCM suitable for?
FXCM is suitable for traders of all levels. Beginners will find educational materials and helpful analytics, while experienced traders will appreciate various instruments and flexible platforms.
Comparison Table of Focus Markets and FXCM
| Broker | Focus Markets | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 3.8/5 | 4.3/5 |
| Foundation Year | 2019 | 1999 |
| Regulated in Countries | Mauritius, Australia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | United Kingdom, Australia, Cyprus, South Africa, Canada, Israel, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines |
| Minimum Deposit |
|
|
| Spread | from 0 points | from 0 points |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 | 1:1000 |
| Trading Assets (CFDs) |
|
|
| Trading Platforms |
|
|
| Review | Focus Markets Review | FXCM Review |
Focus Markets Review
Focus Markets is a broker aimed primarily at independent Forex and CFD traders who value access to popular markets, the familiar MetaTrader 5 platform, and a clear trading account structure. It is not the most versatile option for beginners who need strong education, regular analytics, and a wide selection of services within the broker’s ecosystem.
Focus Markets is best suited to experienced traders who already use external analytics sources, make trading decisions independently, and are looking for a broker for active CFD trading. For beginner clients, the broker may be less convenient due to its weak educational base and limited support in making trading decisions.
Pros and Cons of Focus Markets
Pros
- More than 700 CFD instruments are available, including Forex, indices, commodities, metals, stocks, and cryptocurrencies.
- MetaTrader 5 is supported with WebTrader, mobile versions, Expert Advisors, and one-click trading.
- The broker does not charge internal fees for deposits and withdrawals.
- Various deposit methods are available: cards, bank transfer, cryptocurrency, and e-wallets.
Cons
- Limited selection of trading accounts.
- No MetaTrader 4, cTrader, or proprietary trading platform.
- Weak analytics: no regular market reviews, trading ideas, signals, or third-party analytical services.
- No educational materials for beginners.
FXCM Review
FXCM represents a comprehensive solution that will benefit traders of all levels — from beginners to professionals. Beginners will appreciate the accessible educational materials and analytics, while experienced traders can use various instruments and flexible platform settings.
However, it's essential to consider drawbacks such as fees for account inactivity and the limited variety of trading accounts. These factors may be particularly significant for traders who do not plan to trade actively or are looking for more options for customization.
The broker offers a good balance between high-quality services and reasonable rates, making it an attractive choice for a broad spectrum of traders.
Pros and Cons of FXCM
Pros
- Diverse methods for deposit and withdrawal.
- Wide range of markets and products for trading.
- A broad spectrum of trading platforms.
- Extensive and quality materials for making informed decisions.
- Quick and efficient help in solving emerging issues.
Cons
- Insufficient variety of trading accounts.
- Inactivity fees and commissions for bank transfer withdrawals.
- Protracted account opening and verification process.
FXCM is in the top 10 of the following ratings:
Reliability
| Broker | Focus Markets | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Reliability | 4.5/5 | 5/5 |
| Foundation Year | 2019 | 1999 |
| Regulated in Countries | Mauritius, Australia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | United Kingdom, Australia, Cyprus, South Africa, Canada, Israel, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines |
| Regulators |
Focus Markets
Focus Markets combines a regulated Australian division with international structures in Mauritius and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Client protection depends on the legal entity.
Pros
- There is a division supervised by ASIC.
- The group’s international structure is disclosed.
Cons
- No compensation fund.
- No information about additional funds insurance.
FXCM
FXCM is a well-regulated broker with numerous licenses from various global organizations.
Account Opening
| Broker | Focus Markets | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Account Opening | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Minimum Deposit |
|
|
Focus Markets
Opening an account with Focus Markets is convenient and fairly fast: registration is completed online, the questionnaire is clear, and document verification usually takes up to 24 business hours.
Pros
- Fully online registration.
- Clear 3-step questionnaire.
- Wide selection of account base currencies.
Cons
- Mandatory KYC verification is required.
- Additional documents may be requested.
- No instant activation of a live account.
FXCM
The account opening process at FXCM is logically organized and efficient, providing clear steps for traders. The structured system and quick verification make this process convenient and straightforward.
Pros
- Clear and structured registration form.
Cons
- Verification waiting time can take up to 3 days.
Account Types
| Broker | Focus Markets | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Account Types | 3.5/5 | 4/5 |
| Trading Accounts |
|
|
| Minimum Deposit |
|
|
| Spread | from 0 points | from 0 points |
| Max Leverage | 1:500 | 1:1000 |
| Trading Assets (CFDs) |
|
|
| Trading Platforms |
|
|
| Demo Account | ||
| Swap-free Account |
Focus Markets
Focus Markets’ account lineup covers traders’ basic needs, but remains limited: only Standard and Raw are available, with no cent, Islamic, or fixed-spread account.
Pros
- Standard and Raw accounts are available.
- 30-day demo account.
- Trader copy trading is available.
Cons
- No cent account.
- No Islamic account.
- No fixed-spread account.
FXCM
FXCM offers two types of accounts: Mini for beginners and Standard for experienced traders. Although the choice is not vast, both accounts are well adapted for their target audiences.
Pros
- Mini account available - akin to a cent account.
- Option for copy trading through ZuluTrade.
- Demo and Islamic accounts available.
Cons
- Limited selection of account types.
- No account with fixed spreads.
Commissions
| Broker | Focus Markets | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Commissions | 3.5/5 | 3.2/5 |
| Spread | from 0 points | from 0 points |
| Average Spread (EURUSD) | 1.2 | 1.2 |
| Commission | per 1 lot$3.50 |
Focus Markets
Focus Markets’ fees are average: spreads and swaps on Standard are typical for the market, the Raw commission is $3.5 per lot per side, and withdrawals are free of broker fees.
Pros
- No withdrawal fee from the broker.
Cons
- An account inactivity fee may apply.
FXCM
Commissions at FXCM are average. The broker offers favorable conditions for long-term trading thanks to competitive spreads and swaps. However, there is an inactivity fee and a fee for fund withdrawal.
Pros
- Competitive spreads and swaps.
- Rebate program for active traders.
Cons
- Inactivity fee.
- Fee for withdrawals via bank transfer.
Deposit and Withdrawal
| Broker | Focus Markets | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Account Funding Methods |
|
|
Focus Markets
Deposits and withdrawals at Focus Markets are convenient: many methods are available, there are no internal fees, and withdrawal times are usually 1–3 business days.
Pros
- Cards, bank transfer, cryptocurrency, and e-wallets are available.
- No internal broker fees.
- Most deposits are processed quickly.
Cons
- Withdrawals are reviewed by the finance department.
- Fees from banks and providers may apply.
FXCM
FXCM offers a wide range of methods for depositing and withdrawing funds, including cryptocurrencies.
Pros
- Variety of deposit methods.
- Fast processing of withdrawal requests.
- No broker commissions for depositing.
Cons
- Commission for withdrawals via bank transfer.
Markets and Products
| Broker | Focus Markets | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Markets and Products | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Forex | 50 | 41 |
| Precious Metals | 5 | 3 |
| Energy Carriers | 3 | 7 |
| Indices | 8 | 15 |
| Stocks | 500 | 3512 |
| Cryptocurrency | 140 | 23 |
| Soft Commodities | - | 4 |
| ETF | - | 280 |
Focus Markets
Focus Markets offers a wide selection of CFD instruments: Forex, indices, commodities, metals, stocks, and cryptocurrencies.
Pros
- More than 700 instruments.
- Leverage up to 1:500.
Cons
- No real stocks or ETFs.
- No soft commodities.
FXCM
FXCM provides a wide range of trading instruments, making it attractive for various categories of traders. Different markets, from Forex to stocks and cryptocurrencies, are available.
Pros
- Good selection of markets and instruments.
Cons
- Some competitors have even more CFDs.
Trading Platforms
| Broker | Focus Markets | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 3.5/5 | 5/5 |
| Trading Platforms |
|
|
Focus Markets
Focus Markets offers the reliable and functional MT5 platform, but the selection is limited: there is no MT4, cTrader, or proprietary broker platform.
Pros
- MetaTrader 5 is available.
- WebTrader and mobile versions are available.
Cons
- No MetaTrader 4.
- No cTrader.
- No proprietary platform.
FXCM
FXCM offers a wide choice of trading platforms with high functionality, meeting the needs of different traders.
Pros
- Wide choice of platforms for different trading styles.
- Advanced analytical tools in Trading Station.
- Support for algorithmic and social trading through Capitalise AI and ZuluTrade.
Analytics
| Broker | Focus Markets | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 2/5 | 5/5 |
Focus Markets
Focus Markets’ analytics are weak: there are no regular market reviews, trading ideas, signals, or third-party services such as Trading Central or Autochartist.
Cons
- No market reviews.
- No trading signals.
- No analytics from third-party providers.
FXCM
FXCM offers comprehensive analytical tools, from trading signals to expert research. These resources not only simplify trading decisions but also help to improve strategy.
Pros
- Wide range of analytical tools.
- Professional signals and market analysis.
- Personalized trading applications.
Cons
- Some tools may require a subscription or active account.
- Lack of analytics localization in different languages.
Education
| Broker | Focus Markets | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 2/5 | 4/5 |
Focus Markets
Education at Focus Markets is poorly developed: instead of a full knowledge base, the broker offers only an FAQ, with no courses, webinars, video lessons, or market analysis materials.
Pros
- There is an FAQ on key questions.
Cons
- No educational courses.
- No webinars or video lessons.
- No materials on strategies or market analysis.
FXCM
The broker offers quality webinars and helpful guides that make the learning process informative and interactive.
Pros
- Webinars with experts for direct interaction.
- Detailed Forex guides.
- Materials suitable for traders of all levels.
Cons
- Lack of video courses.
- No podcasts for audio learning.
Customer Support
| Broker | Focus Markets | FXCM |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 3.5/5 | 5/5 |
| Email Support |
|
|
| Hotline Phones | — |
|
| Social Media | — |
Whatsapp
YouTube
TwitterFocus Markets
Focus Markets’ technical support is basic: online chat, email, and an FAQ are available, with a 24/5 schedule, but there are few contact channels and limited public feedback on service quality.
Pros
- Online chat is available on the website.
- Support operates 24/5.
Cons
- No clearly specified social networks or messengers.
- Limited number of public reviews.
FXCM
FXCM's technical support is highly rated for its variety of communication channels and quick response. Customer reviews confirm the professionalism and efficiency of the staff.
Pros
- Multiple channels of communication, including WhatsApp and live chat.
- Available 24/5.
- High degree of customer satisfaction.
Cons
- There may be telephone charges for international calls.
Comparisons of Focus Markets and FXCM with other brokers
Conclusion
FXCM stands out as the better overall pick, while Focus Markets trails on aggregate criteria.
FXCM scored 4.3/5 and ranks 31 in our rating; Focus Markets has 3.8/5 and ranks 60.
We explain the reasons above in detail — fees, platforms, reliability, support, and more.
FAQ
Which broker is better: Focus Markets or FXCM?
FXCM comes out ahead by overall rank (score 4.3/5, position 31) versus Focus Markets (score 3.8/5, position 60).
Which broker is better for beginners: Focus Markets or FXCM?
FXCM is often a smoother start thanks to simpler onboarding and stronger baseline metrics. Still, your tools and budget should drive the final choice.
Who has lower typical trading costs (spreads/commissions) — Focus Markets or FXCM?
It depends on the instrument and account type. Compare the live conditions in the “Commissions” section on this page — we break down the nuances category by category.
What trading platforms are available with Focus Markets and FXCM?
Focus Markets: MetaTrader 5. FXCM: MetaTrader 4, Trading Station, TradingView. See the “Platforms” section for details and selection tips.
What markets can you trade with Focus Markets and FXCM?
Focus Markets: Forex, Precious Metals, Energy Carriers, Indices, Stocks, Cryptocurrency. FXCM: Forex, Precious Metals, Energy Carriers, Soft Commodities, Indices, Stocks, ETF, Cryptocurrency. Full lists and differences are in the “Markets” section.
What account types are offered by Focus Markets and FXCM?
Focus Markets: Standard, Raw. FXCM: Standard. See “Account Types” for a side-by-side comparison.
What deposit and withdrawal methods are supported by Focus Markets and FXCM?
Focus Markets: Neteller, Skrill, Swift, Visa, Mastercard. FXCM: Skrill, Neteller, PayPal, Swift, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, UnionPay. Check method-specific fees/settlement times.
Which broker is safer — Focus Markets or FXCM — and how was this assessed?
We consider regulation, corporate transparency, fund protection, and incident history. See the “Reliability” section for our findings.
