FXCM
Pros
- No account opening or deposit fees
- Strong algorithmic trading support with APIs and third-party integrations
- Spread betting available for UK clients (tax-free gains)
- Multiple regulated entities across UK, Australia, EU, and South Africa
- Free demo account with up to $20,000 in virtual funds
- Commission-free standard accounts
- Advanced Trading Station platform with 115+ indicators
- Active Trader rebates for high-volume traders
Cons
- Banned from US market since 2017 following CFTC fraud findings
- Past regulatory fines from FCA and CFTC remain on record
- Inactivity fee after 12 months
- Wire withdrawal carries a $25 correspondent bank charge
- Limited stock CFD range compared to multi-asset competitors
- No MetaTrader 5 support
- Active Trader minimum deposit is $25,000